A 50-kilometer route through the Cañón del Atuel runs from Embalse El Nihuil to a point downstream of Embalse Valle Grande. Other highlights include rafting on the Río Atuel, water activities at Los Reyunos and places with a history of wine growing. In San Rafael Department, you can therefore plan your trip around scenery, outdoor activities, culture or wine.
Canyon, Road and Water
In Valle Grande, the Cañón del Atuel unfolds amid lush vegetation and the Río Atuel, which flows over its rocky riverbed. Guided hikes explore the canyon’s trails, mountains and rock formations. The route through the canyon runs for 50 kilometers from Embalse El Nihuil to a point downstream of Embalse Valle Grande.
The section of RP 173 that passes through the Cañón del Atuel is surfaced with compacted gravel. It is suitable for all vehicles, but should be driven at low speed. As road conditions can change seasonally, check them before setting out. Rafting trips in inflatable boats start in Valle Grande on the Río Atuel; the routes are considered suitable for all audiences.
Los Reyunos is a reservoir with turquoise and green hues and striking rock formations. There, a guided catamaran tour lasts one hour; canoes and kayaks can be rented by the hour. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are available at El Nihuil. The area is considered one of the country’s best places for these wind-dependent board sports.
Laguna El Sosneado offers a different focus: the lake has crystal-clear water and is suitable for fishing. The Ruinas del Hotel Termal El Sosneado include outdoor thermal pools. Check local access conditions before visiting. Cueva del Indio is an archaeological site associated with the ancestral cultures of this area.
Wine-Growing History and Heritage
Villa 25 de Mayo is considered the historic heart of San Rafael Department. There, Fuerte San Rafael del Diamante is designated an Argentine National Historic Monument. Another way to explore regional history is through the Museo Histórico Narciso Sosa Morales, which displays archaeological finds as well as objects related to the region’s pioneers and Indigenous peoples.
Laberinto de Borges also offers a distinctive cultural connection. Its paths are laid out to be read from the air, forming the name of Jorge Luis Borges and symbols from his work. Bodegas y Viñedos Arizu in Villa Atuel is also designated an Argentine National Historic Monument.
Founded in 1928, Bodegas Bianchi is located in San Rafael’s historic wine-growing area. Tourist tours offer wine tastings at the foot of the tanks. This combines an introduction to wine growing with a tasting, without requiring a set visit duration.
Planning and Accommodation
A notice dated August 31, 2026, reports that the first construction phase of the new passenger terminal at San Rafael Airport is operational. For specific flight details, check the information for your travel date.
When looking for a vacation rental, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your trip: do you want to focus mainly on canyon scenery and water activities, or leave more room for wine-growing history and heritage? Then you can check which of the places you want to visit can be conveniently combined from your chosen base.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Rodolfo Iselin, Tunuyán Department, Luján De Cuyo, Guaymallén, Capital Department, Lavalle Department, San Rafael Department, San Martín Department
For the overview of the wider region: Mendoza.
