All Hot Springs

Hot Springs: Villa La Angostura

Villa La Angostura, an exclusive alpine village on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, is surrounded by pristine national park forests that conceal natural hot springs. This boutique Patagonian destination combines thermal relaxation with world-class scenery.

3 hot springsBest Season to Visit: Summer (December to March) is the best time for ac...

Introduction

Villa La Angostura is a small, upscale village nestled between lakes Nahuel Huapi and Correntoso in the heart of the Argentine Lake District. Known for its ski resort at Cerro Bayo, its proximity to the famous Arrayanes Forest on the Quetrihué Peninsula, and its photogenic alpine architecture, the village also provides access to natural hot springs in the surrounding national park territory. The springs here are predominantly wild or semi-natural, accessible via forest hikes rather than resort driveways. For travelers who appreciate earning their thermal soak through a beautiful walk in ancient Patagonian forest, Villa La Angostura delivers a uniquely rewarding experience.

Hot Springs

Termas de Queñi

Wild

While shared with the San Martín area, Termas de Queñi is accessible from Villa La Angostura via the Seven Lakes Route. Natural pools in a forest clearing steam invitingly after the rewarding hike through lenga and coihue forest. The trail passes waterfalls and river crossings, making the journey as memorable as the springs.

Temperature: 34-40°C
Entry Fee: Free (boat crossing fee applies if taking that route)
How to Get There: Accessible via a boat crossing on Lake Lácar followed by a 3-hour hike, or via a longer trail from the Seven Lakes Route. This spring is actually closer to San Martín de los Andes but accessible from Villa La Angostura via Ruta 40. About 60 km to the trailhead.
Best time: January to March
none at the springs

Termas del Rincón (Lago Espejo area)

Natural

Warm springs seeping into natural pools in a forested ravine near the scenic Lago Espejo along the Seven Lakes Route. The temperature is mild but pleasant, and the secluded forest setting offers complete tranquility. Best visited as part of a Seven Lakes Route exploration.

Temperature: 30-36°C
Entry Fee: Free
How to Get There: Near Lago Espejo on Ruta 40, about 30 km north of Villa La Angostura. A trail from the road leads about 45 minutes to the springs.
Best time: December to March
roadside parking

Termas de Lahuen Co (day trip)

Resort

The nearest developed thermal resort to Villa La Angostura, Lahuen Co offers a full spa experience with multiple pools at varying temperatures and panoramic mountain views. A popular day trip that combines well with exploring San Martín de los Andes.

Temperature: 36-42°C
Entry Fee: $20,000 ARS per adult
How to Get There: About 80 km north via Ruta 40 and Ruta Provincial 62 through San Martín de los Andes area. About 1.5 hours by car.
Best time: Year-round
outdoor poolsindoor poolssparestaurantchanging roomsparking

Safety Tips

Trail conditions to wild springs can deteriorate after rain — check locally before departing

Register at the national park ranger station before hiking to remote springs

Carry sufficient water and food for hikes — there are no services en route

Winter driving on the Seven Lakes Route requires snow chains

Wildlife including wild boar can be encountered on forest trails — make noise while hiking

Water levels in streams along hiking trails can rise after rain — use caution at crossings

What to Bring

  • Swimsuit
  • Towel
  • Hiking boots
  • Warm layers and rain jacket
  • Drinking water and trail snacks
  • Cash in Argentine pesos
  • Trekking poles for forest trails
  • Camera
  • Insect repellent in summer

Best Season to Visit

Summer (December to March) is the best time for accessing wild hot springs near Villa La Angostura, as trails are clear and daylight hours are long. Winter (June to September) is ideal for combining skiing at Cerro Bayo with a day trip to Lahuen Co resort. Autumn (April to May) brings stunning fall colors on the Seven Lakes Route.

Getting There

Villa La Angostura is located 80 km north of Bariloche on Ruta 40 (about 1 hour). The nearest airport is Bariloche (BRC) with flights from Buenos Aires and other Argentine cities. The village is also on the route from the Chilean border crossing at Paso Cardenal Samoré (connecting to Osorno, Chile). Rental cars are available in Bariloche and some in Villa La Angostura itself.

Nearby Attractions

Arrayanes Forest (Bosque de Arrayanes)
Cerro Bayo ski resort (winter)
Seven Lakes Route scenic drive
Lake Correntoso (world's shortest river)
Quetrihué Peninsula trails
Paso Cardenal Samoré to Chile

Explore Patagonia by Car

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Villa La Angostura have its own hot spring resort?

Not within the village itself. The nearby hot springs are wild or natural, requiring hikes to access. For a resort experience, Termas de Lahuen Co is about 1.5 hours north near San Martín de los Andes.

Can I visit hot springs and the Arrayanes Forest in one day?

It would be difficult to combine wild spring hikes with the Arrayanes Forest in a single day. Plan these as separate activities. The Arrayanes Forest can be visited via a catamaran from Bahía Mansa or a hike along the peninsula.

Is the Seven Lakes Route near any hot springs?

Yes, the Rincón springs near Lago Espejo are directly on the Seven Lakes Route, making them an easy stop during this famous scenic drive between Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes.

Is Villa La Angostura expensive?

Villa La Angostura is one of the more upscale destinations in Argentine Patagonia, with prices reflecting its exclusive character. However, the wild hot springs are free to access, making them a budget-friendly activity.

Villa La Angostura

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