Travel around San Luis with Bobby
Day 1 Arriving at the Foot of the Andes
The moment I stepped off the bus in San Luis, I knew I was in for something special. This city, tucked at the base of the Andes, immediately felt like a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively. I checked into Hotel Vista, a cozy spot with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After dropping off my bags, I decided to stretch my legs and headed straight to Plaza Pringles, the heart of the city. The colonial architecture surrounding the square was a beautiful contrast to the modern shops and cafes that line the streets. I grabbed a coffee at Café Martínez, a popular local hangout, and watched as life buzzed around me.
In the afternoon, I ventured out to La Carolina, a quaint village an hour’s drive away, famous for its abandoned gold mines. I was able to book a tour to explore one of these ancient mines, a surreal experience that made me feel like I’d stepped back in time. The drive through the scenic roads, with the mountains on one side and rolling hills on the other, was an adventure in itself.
By the time evening rolled around, I was craving some authentic Argentinian food. I made my way to La Pulpería, a rustic restaurant known for its asado (barbecue). The smoky aroma hit me as soon as I walked in, and the perfectly grilled steak, paired with a local Malbec, was the perfect end to my first day.
Spend your first day getting a feel for the city and its surroundings. The combination of colonial charm and rugged nature is what makes San Luis special—don’t rush it.
Day 2The Adventure Begins: Sierra de las Quijadas National Park
On my second day, I was ready for some adventure, so I hopped in a rental car and set off for Sierra de las Quijadas National Park, about an hour and a half drive from San Luis. The park’s dramatic red rock formations and deep canyons make it a dream destination for hikers and nature lovers. I took the Sendero Huellas del Pasado trail, which offers a moderate hike through some of the most incredible landscapes I’ve ever seen. Walking through this park felt like stepping onto another planet—rugged, raw, and absolutely stunning.
I spent hours exploring the park, taking in the ancient rock art, spotting condors soaring overhead, and just soaking in the beauty of this untouched wilderness. By mid-afternoon, I headed back toward the city, feeling completely invigorated by my time in nature.
For dinner, I decided to try El Rincón del Cacique, a restaurant known for its traditional empanadas. The crispy pastry and savory filling were the perfect comfort food after a day of hiking. I ended my evening with a quiet walk around the city center, taking in the twinkling lights and relaxed vibe of San Luis by night.
I dined at El Rincón del Cacique, where the traditional empanadas were the highlight of the day. The flaky crust and savory filling were perfectly balanced, making it a memorable meal after a long day of hiking. Simple but delicious.
Food
Hotel Vista continued to provide a good night's rest after an exhausting hike at Sierra de las Quijadas. While the rooms weren’t luxurious, the peaceful atmosphere and excellent service made it a pleasant place to recharge.
Accomodation
The hike through Sierra de las Quijadas National Park was absolutely breathtaking. The rugged red rock formations and vast landscapes made this one of the most thrilling outdoor experiences of my trip. A must-do for any nature lover.
Activity
If you’re into hiking or just want to experience some jaw-dropping landscapes, Sierra de las Quijadas is a must. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a camera—you’ll need all three!
Day 3A Day of Waterfalls and Relaxation
After a full day of hiking, I was ready for a more laid-back experience. I decided to explore Salto de la Moneda, a beautiful waterfall just outside the city. The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy, and the reward is a stunning cascade surrounded by lush greenery. I spent the morning lounging by the water, dipping my feet into the cool stream, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It was the perfect spot to unwind and recharge.
In the afternoon, I made my way to Potrero de los Funes, a charming lakeside town just 20 minutes from San Luis. The drive itself was spectacular, winding through scenic mountain roads with views of the shimmering lake below. Once I arrived, I rented a bike and cycled around the lake, stopping occasionally to snap photos or simply sit and enjoy the view. The calmness of the lake, combined with the fresh mountain air, made this one of the most relaxing afternoons of my trip.
I capped off my day with dinner at La Tablita, a lakeside restaurant known for its fresh trout. The meal was light and flavorful, a perfect end to a day spent by the water.
Lunch by the lake at La Tablita was a delightful experience, especially the fresh trout. Light, flavorful, and served with a beautiful lakeside view, it was a perfect meal for a relaxing day. The service was attentive, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
Food
Hotel Vista maintained its charm, offering a quiet place to rest after a serene day by Potrero de los Funes. The room was comfortable, and the mountain views from the balcony were unbeatable. While not overly fancy, it served its purpose well.
Accomodation
The trip to Salto de la Moneda Waterfall was peaceful and picturesque. Relaxing by the waterfall and later biking around Potrero de los Funes lake provided a perfect balance between activity and relaxation. The scenery was unforgettable.
Activity
San Luis offers plenty of opportunities to relax in nature. If you’re looking to take it easy, spend the day by a waterfall or the lake—Potrero de los Funes is an ideal spot for a peaceful escape.
Day 4The Charm of the City and Local Life
For my final day in San Luis, I wanted to dive into the local culture. I started the day with a visit to the Iglesia Catedral de San Luis, an iconic colonial church located in the heart of the city. The intricate design and the peaceful ambiance of the cathedral made it a great spot for reflection. From there, I wandered over to the Museo Dora Ochoa de Masramón, where I learned about the history and art of the region. The museum is small but packed with fascinating exhibits, giving me a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of San Luis.
For lunch, I stopped at Doña Emilia, a beloved spot for locals, where I tried some delicious locro, a hearty stew that’s a staple in Argentine cuisine. The warmth and flavor of the dish matched the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant. I spent the afternoon strolling through the local markets, picking up a few souvenirs and chatting with artisans about their crafts.
As evening approached, I found myself at La Plaza Independencia, where live music filled the air, and families gathered to enjoy the cool evening breeze. I joined the locals at a nearby café, sipping on a glass of vino while soaking in the vibrant yet laid-back energy of the city.
At Doña Emilia, I enjoyed a hearty bowl of locro, a traditional Argentine stew. The flavors were rich and warming, making it a great choice for my last lunch in San Luis. The restaurant's local charm and friendly service added to the experience.
Food
On my last night, Hotel Vista continued to deliver a comfortable and restful stay. The staff’s helpfulness, combined with the peaceful surroundings, made for a pleasant end to the trip. No luxury, but good value overall.
Accomodation
Exploring the Iglesia Catedral de San Luis and the Museo Dora Ochoa de Masramón gave me deeper insight into the city’s cultural history. Ending the day with live music at Plaza Independencia was a wonderful way to soak in the local vibe.
Activity
Take your time exploring the local culture of San Luis. The markets, museums, and city streets are filled with stories waiting to be discovered, and the food is a cultural experience all on its own.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
San Luis, Argentina, offers a captivating mix of natural beauty and rich local culture. The city provides a variety of experiences, from peaceful relaxation to adventurous exploration, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both. Here's how Bobby rated his experience in 10 categories:
I kicked off my first day with an incredible asado at La Pulpería, where the smoky flavors of grilled steak and local Malbec wine were outstanding. The meat was tender, and the portions were generous, giving me a great first impression of Argentine cuisine. A satisfying and authentic meal to start the trip.
Food
I stayed at Hotel Vista, a cozy boutique hotel with breathtaking views of the Andes. The room was comfortable, and the staff was friendly, although the amenities were fairly basic. However, the location made it easy to access the city center and nearby attractions.
Accomodation
My visit to Plaza Pringles and the colonial streets of San Luis was a great way to immerse myself in the local culture. Exploring La Carolina and its gold mines added a touch of adventure, making the day both culturally enriching and fun.
Activity