El Bolsón

Getting Around

The main street, San Martín, has shops, restaurants, and some lodgings within a two- to three-block area. A grassy plaza next to the tourist office is the center of activities, with a crafts market on weekends and some weekdays. The sheer rock face of Cerro Piltrequitrón (from a Mapuche word meaning "hanging from the clouds") dominates the horizon on the southeast side of town. Trails along the Río Azul or to nearby waterfalls and mountaintops are a short taxi or bike ride from the plaza. In spring (late November-December) the roads are lined with ribbons of lupine in every shade of pink and purple imaginable. Berries are picked December-March. Summers are warm and lazy, and campgrounds at nearby lakes attract backpackers and families.

Huara Viajes y Turismo. A full-service travel and tour office, Huara Viajes y Turismo offers guided hiking, fishing, rafting, horseback, and mountain-bike trips. They also arrange day tours to Lago Puelo that include a boat trip. Rock climbing with rappels is offered on a multi-adventure trip near Lago Puelo. Dorrego 410, El Bolsón, Río Negro, 8430. 2944/455-000. www.huaraviajesyturismo.com.ar.

El Bolson Planner

• Getting Around

El Bolson Contacts & Resources

• Visitor and Tour Info