San Martín de los Andes sits at the eastern end of Lago Lacar in the Andean Patagonia, a small town of around 35,000 people that has developed a well-deserved reputation as one of Argentina’s most charming destinations. The pedestrian-friendly centre — centred on Avenida San Martín with its chocolate shops, craft breweries, and Patagonian restaurants — is manageable on foot, and the surrounding national park provides some of the best trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking in the region. In winter, the Chapelco ski resort 20 km outside town draws skiers from across Argentina and Chile.
Staying in Town vs. at the Lake
Most accommodation in San Martín de los Andes falls into two broad categories: properties in the town centre on or near Av. San Martín, and cabin or lodge complexes on the lake shore or forested hillsides outside the centre.
Town centre hotels are the most practical for first-time visitors — walking distance to restaurants, tour operators, and the Costanera lakefront promenade. The town is compact; almost everything of interest is within 15 minutes on foot.
Lakeside cabins and hillside lodges suit travellers who want privacy and direct water or forest access. Many are self-catering or offer breakfast-only; some require a car or taxi to reach the centre. These properties typically offer better value per square metre and a more secluded atmosphere.
Getting to and from the Airport
Chapelco Airport (CPC) is 25 km southeast of town on Route 234. Transfer options:
- Taxi or remis — ARS 8,000–12,000 one way as of 2026. Small fleet; pre-arrange if arriving late.
- Shuttle services — Several companies offer shared shuttle transfers to the town centre at lower per-person cost; confirm timing with your hotel.
- Rental car — Practical if you plan day trips into Lanín National Park or the Seven Lakes region; pick up at the airport on arrival.
Budget Hotels and Guesthouses (ARS 45,000–90,000/night)
Puma Hostel — Fosbery 535. A well-run hostel with private rooms and dormitories in a residential block close to the main avenue. Good communal kitchen, reliable WiFi, and knowledgeable staff for trekking advice. Dorm beds from approximately ARS 18,000; private rooms from ARS 55,000 as of 2026.
La Raíz Hostel — Coronel Díaz 751. A small guesthouse with a friendly, traveller-oriented atmosphere in the quiet residential streets behind the town centre. Mixed dorm and private room options. From approximately ARS 16,000 per dorm bed.
Estación Hostel — Rivadavia 686. Budget-oriented with clean dorms and private doubles; good for solo travellers connecting between Bariloche and Zapala. Rates from ARS 45,000 for a private double.
Mid-Range Hotels and Lodges (ARS 130,000–270,000/night)
Hotel del Montañés — Av. San Martín 801. A welcoming mid-range property with 18 rooms on the main avenue, well-maintained and with a good breakfast included. Rates approximately ARS 140,000–190,000 per night as of 2026. Easy walking distance to the lakefront.
Hostería Las Lucarnas — Coronel Pérez 632. A converted house with eight rooms, garden, and a fireplace lounge typical of Patagonian mountain style. Personal service, home-cooked breakfast, and a knowledgeable host. Rates approximately ARS 130,000–180,000.
La Cheminée Hotel — Roca 975. A well-regarded property with chalets-style architecture, a sauna, and mountain views from upper-floor rooms. Popular with skiing groups in winter; requires booking 2–3 months ahead for July. Rates approximately ARS 160,000–240,000.
Cabañas Araucaria — Ruta 234, Km 3. Lakeside cabin complex 3 km from the centre with private access to Lago Lacar. Fully equipped kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, and kayak hire on site. Rates approximately ARS 200,000–270,000 per cabin (sleeps 2–4).
Upscale Properties (ARS 280,000–600,000+/night)
Patagonia Plaza Hotel — Av. San Martín 1040. The town’s most established upscale hotel, with spa, heated pool, and a restaurant focused on Patagonian lamb and trout. Rooms are well-appointed and lake views are available on upper floors. Rates from approximately ARS 320,000 as of 2026.
Las Vertientes Lodge — Ruta 19, Km 5. A secluded lodge in native lenga beech forest, 5 km outside town. Full-board option available, guided excursions included in some packages, and a private stream on the property. Rates from approximately ARS 450,000.
Chapelco Golf & Resort — Ruta 234, Km 6. The area’s largest resort property, with golf course, spa, outdoor pool, and direct access to mountain trails. Self-contained and popular for multi-day stays. Rates from approximately ARS 500,000 in high season.
Seasonal Notes
- Summer (December–March): Peak season for trekking, lake activities, and Lanín National Park. Book 4–6 weeks ahead for preferred properties. Rates at their annual high.
- Winter (June–August): Chapelco ski season. July is the peak week; book 2–3 months ahead. Some lodge complexes close in off-season (April–May, September–October), so confirm availability.
- Shoulder season (November, March–April): Best conditions for availability and rates. November brings wildflowers to the national park; April brings autumn colour to the lenga beech forests.
Practical Tips
- Book a private airport transfer if arriving at Chapelco Airport at night — the taxi fleet is small and pre-arranging avoids queuing.
- San Martín de los Andes is a small town; most lodging categories are clearly better value than equivalent options in Bariloche. It rewards staying two or three nights rather than treating it as a day trip.
- Credit cards are widely accepted in town hotels. Smaller cabin complexes may prefer cash — confirm before arrival.
- Mosquitoes can be an issue around the lakeside in early summer (December–January). Properties further from the water tend to have fewer problems.
Book your San Martín de los Andes trip: Tours in San Martín de los Andes · Travel insurance · Car hire
See also: San Martín de los Andes city guide · Things to do in San Martín de los Andes · Food in San Martín de los Andes