Experience Villa La Angostura
Overview
Villa La Angostura is a casual resort town nestled on the shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake in the Argentinian Patagonia. The charming lakeside town is embellished with wooden Alpine-style buildings where remarkable restaurants and impressive chocolate shops are found. Set amongst some of the most striking scenery in the country, Villa La Angostura is immersed in the majestic Andean mountains, sparkling lakes, and verdant forests leading visitors to endless outdoor activities and experiences.
The snow-covered mountain and ski trails of the nearby Cerro Bayo attract skiers and winter vacationers from across the globe. Villa La Angostura is located in the heart of The Seven Lakes Route which winds its way North to San Martin de los Andes. During the summer it is the gateway to hiking and other outdoor activities in the famed Los Arrayenes National Park. The secluded town is the upmarket alternative to Bariloche and is nicknamed the Garden of Patagonia as it is one of the most beautiful parts of the Lake District.
Things to see and do
Spend the day at Los Arrayanes National Park which can be accessed via a scenic boat ride across the stunning waters of Nahuel Huapi Lake. Villa La Angostura is the gateway to this spectacular scenic wonderland filled with the famous Arrayan trees, some are up to 300 years old, and a few exemplars have been standing for over 65- years. Walking through this spectacular forest and magnificent trees is a magical experience. The park is home to various diverse flora and fauna and features well-maintained hiking and walking trails and picnic areas with picturesque views.
Head to Cerro Bayofor countless outdoor activities including skiing and snowboarding in the winter. If you love the great outdoors then this is the perfect place for you, you can go hiking or mountain biking in the spring and summer months and soak up the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The views are especially enchanting during sunset.
Spend the day at Bahia Manzano which boasts a picturesque bay with a tranquil sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. Set on the shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings relaxing by the lake with a picnic and go swimming. There are a few restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore in the small neighborhood.
Visit Rio Correntoso for some of the best hiking in the region. This river stretches stands out as one of the shortest in the world measuring around 820 feet. The river runs from Correntoso Lake to Nahuel Huapi Lake which are both known for their crystal clear waters and peaceful surroundings. Visitors to the area can go kayaking on the lake or go fishing in the river which is famous for its abundance of large trout.
Take the scenic 66-mile Route of the Seven Lakesdrive stretching from Villa La Angostura to the town of San Martin de Los Andesalong a stretch of National Route 40, the highway that crosses the full length of Argentina from north to south. An epic and beautiful journey past snow-capped mountains, dense verdant forests, and pristine lakes. The spectacular route passes seven main lakes; Lake Machonico, Lake Escondido, Lake Correntoso, Lake Espejo, Lake Lacar, Lake Falkner, and Lake Villarino. It also crosses two national parks; Lannin National Park, and Nahuel Huapi National Park. The drive can be done in one day independently or with a guided tour.
Take a boat trip on Lago Nahuel Huapi, there are plenty of options when it comes to getting out on the crystal clear waters of the main lake in town. Go sightseeing via catamaran, or a sailboat tour, you can even rent your own boat.
Go bird watching at Laguna Calafate where there are bird hides where bird lovers can enjoy the local wildlife. There are posters inside the hides providing the names and images of various birds you can expect to see.
Shopping
Villa la Angostura features various shops many found along the main road in town and several dotted around the lake. There are many ski and snowboarding shops, outerwear, unique gift shops, clothing stores, artisan craft shops, tea houses, and excellent chocolate shops. There are daily artisan markets held in town selling unique handmade products and a wide range of souvenirs, crafts, and local delicacies. Shoppers can look for wool clothing, wood carvings, pottery, chocolates, jams, and candles.
Dining
The affluent area of Villa la Angostura is a culinary delight in Argentina featuring some fantastic restaurants and magnificent chefs. The town is well known for its high-quality gastronomy and features over 80 restaurants and cafes. Diners will find the main concentration of restaurants, cafes, and confiteias in El Cruce along Av Arrayanes and its cross streets. There are many charming restaurants found along the lakeside boasting spectacular views. A lot of the restaurants in Villa la Angostura serve up similar dishes that are typical for the area including trout, Patagonian lamb, forest mushroom dishes, and venison. Restaurants in the area also specialize in Argentine cuisine and internationally influenced dishes like hamburgers, pizzas, and pasta.
Some other Argentine favorites are the Empanadas con carne (fried or baked), Milanesa a la Napolitana (breaded and fried meat covered with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and ham), Chimichurri (Argentine pesto used to marinate meat or as a dipping sauce), and Choripan (sausage). If you want to try something different, the Pacu fish is delicious as long as the human-like teeth don't unnerve you. According to National Geographic, Argentina is one of the 5 places in the world to have the best hilado (Ice cream). We suggest you try the dulce de leche or the tiramisu. Alfajor de Maicena (dulce de leche cookies) is another Argentine favorite. Malbec wine makes a great complement to every steak meal. If you're looking for something softer, Yerba Mate the national drink of Argentina is a herb placed in a mate pot - it is a focal point for social gatherings.
Nightlife
There is a small but happening nightlife scene in Villa la Angostura with some good bars, restaurants, and other cozy establishments to enjoy a drink, music, and dancing dotted around town. The nightlife here in this charming lakeside alpine town is eclectic boasting cozy wine bars, lively nightclubs, and a welcoming atmosphere with friendly locals.
