San Martin de los Andes is one of those stunningly simple little places on the map that, although discovered, has yet to experience the boom and popularity of Bariloche, its larger neighbor to the south.

Founded in 1898, the town’s location is within territory that was once disputed over with Chile. Originally settled by Argentines, Chileans, and immigrants from Europe, the town quickly became dependent upon forestry products and cattle raising. Only as recently as the 1970’s, in conjunction with the development of the Chapelco ski area, did tourism replace timber harvesting as the area’s primary source of income.

Small and laid back, with a population of approximately 24,000, it is situated along the southeastern shore of Lago Lacar and is a showpiece of classic Andean-Alpine architecture. Typical in town is the wide street, lined with trees and rose bushes. The town center is filled with numerous shops including chocolatiers, clothing boutiques, outdoor recreation for fly fishing tackle and snow and ski equipment, exceptional cafes, and numerous charming hotels. These all combine to help make San Martin the perfect walking town.

As evidenced by the numbers and sizes of boats anchored nearby at the lake’s wharf, the town continues to show signs of prosperity. Argentines, tired of big city life, have begun to move into the town and surrounding area. Additionally, international investors have discovered the pristine mountain land. Already there are several golf courses on the outskirts of town.

The town is surrounded by sapphire lakes and mountains covered with dense forests. This region is also home of the Mapuche Indians; small dirt roads in the area take you by their dwellings.

Nearby Parque Nacional Lanin was founded in 1937. The park is 93 miles long, covering 1,508 square miles, making it the third largest national park in Argentina. It includes ancient forests, Volcan Lanin, numerous streams and rivers and 35 mountain lakes.

Three towns along its length provide park access as well as roads that lead to the Chilean border. Alumine´ is in the northern section, located near an abundance of area lakes. Junin de los Andes, about half the size of San Martin, is situated near the midpoint of the park and is where pave roads end if you’re coming from San Martin or Bariloche.

Summer recreation includes mountain biking, fishing, canoeing, rafting, mountain trekking and climbing, horseback riding, and trout and salmon fly fishing.

Winter time sports activities include skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding and snowmobiling. Cerro Chapelco, located approximately 12 miles from town, is the center for most of these winter activities.

Fly fishing in this portion of Patagonia Argentina is internationally famous. Daily or weekly excursions are available through local guides, who will take you to their favorite fishing spots. Tucked in along area lake shorelines and river banks are several great fly fishing resorts, unknown and unseen by the average Argentina tourist.

Fishing season runs from mid-December through mid-April. Check for exact dates. Because this is one of the premier fly fishing regions in all of South America, it’s advisable to plan and book your trip months in advance.

The Seven Lakes Road is the main travel attraction between Villa La Angostura and San Martin. It is 65 miles of mostly gravel road that takes the traveler deep into the mountains. Although tour buses and minivan tours are available for this trip, it’s highly recommended to have a rental car at your disposal. Numerous opportunities present themselves along the way for great photography, as is true of the entire region.

Road conditions can deteriorate rapidly after rains, and is often closed after heavy rains. Inquire about road conditions before departing from San Martin or Villa La Angostura.

Along the way you’ll pass tumbling streams and sky blue lakes, empty of human population. Plan ahead and pack a lunch, along with a bottle of Argentine wine, as there are several spots along this route calling out for a picnic.

San Martin, with its stone, brick and wooden architecture, is a tidy and clean Andean town, exuding charm and an assured confidence.  Combine this with its growing reputation for outdoor recreation, and its an easy addition to that Argentina vacation package.