Las Balsas

Patagonian Lake District, Argentina

Overview

In the far-reaching foothills of the Argentine Andes, Las Balsas offers an enchanting stay in the Patagonian Lake District, an area of immense raw beauty and the gateway to some of Northern Patagonia’s most spectacular adventures.

Key Features

  • Beautifully designed suites and villas blend rustic interiors with luxurious comforts, complete with private decks, deep-soak bathtubs, and sweeping views of the glistening lake.
  • Offering exclusive access to a private nature reserve and a range of outdoor activities, from fly-fishing to mountain biking and rock climbing, the hotel is an ideal base for exploring the Patagonian wilderness.
  • Providing deep relaxation after a long day of adventure, the hotel’s tranquil spa offers rejuvenating treatments and therapeutic facilities including a sauna, hot tub, gym, and heated pool.
  • Serving regional dishes with a contemporary twist, the hotel’s award-winning restaurant celebrates the bold flavours of the Andes, pairing seasonal dishes with fine wines from Argentina and the world.

Location

Las Balsas is located on the sandy shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi in Argentina’s oldest national park, established over 100 years ago. Known as the jewel of Argentine Patagonia, Nahuel Huapi is the largest lake in the region, and the park offers direct access to Patagonia’s most extraordinary natural landscapes. Spanning over a million acres of pristine wilderness, this region is a haven for those who seek the thrill of an outdoor adventure. The landscape changes dramatically from arid desert plains in the east to lush Valdivian rainforests in the west, and vast glacial lakes in between. Ancient coihue forests rise over the Andean slopes, and rapid rivers spill into rocky ravines, forming dramatic waterfalls and deep caves.

Design

This picturesque property is perched right on the lake’s edge, its iconic bright blue exterior immediately visible. It was once a traditional alpine homestead, transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, yet it retains its homely, rustic interiors. The lounge and bar areas are furnished with unique Argentinian antiques, and each of its cosy suites feature sweeping views of the lake through panelled windows. Villas are suspended in the forest amidst the trees, with glass walls and private decks overlooking the lake. The hotel’s wine cellar is celebrated for its extensive collection of Argentinian wines, and the spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments along with gym facilities, a sauna, hot tub, and a terraced pool.

Activities

Days here are spent exploring the diverse landscapes around the national park, venturing into the towering Andean peaks. Embrace your inner gaucho and ride horseback along winding alpine trails, through the surreal Patagonian landscapes and forests of flowering Luma trees. Navigate rapids on thrilling river rafting excursions and go sailing or kayaking across one of the region’s vast glacial lakes, exploring hidden bays and secluded islets. After a long day of adventure, unwind with bespoke therapies in the hotel’s spa, or a private yoga class on the lakeshore. Sip sundowners around a roaring fire pit and dine al fresco under the stars.

Cuisine

Capturing the vibrant flavours of Latin America, the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant offers a refined take on regional cuisine, and an exquisite dining experience with sweeping lakeside views. An ever-changing menu of seasonal dishes represents the hotel’s dedication to the Relais and Châteaux “Slow Food” concept, combining fresh, local ingredients with traditional cooking techniques. Meals are paired with a custom selection of fine wines from Argentina and around the globe, with private tastings hosted by an expert sommelier.

Why we love it

For decades, Las Balsas has been considered one of Argentina’s finest wilderness retreats, hosting thrill-seekers and nature-lovers from around the globe. Through its award-winning cuisine, exceptional spa facilities, and immersive outdoor activities, Las Balsas truly captures the spirit of Patagonian adventure.

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