Seven Lakes Route

The Seven Lakes Route is one of Patagonia’s defining scenic roads, following Argentina’s legendary Ruta Nacional 40 between Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes. Over roughly 110 kilometres, the road passes a remarkable sequence of Andean lakes, dense forests and mountain landscapes. Unlike routes defined by a single dramatic pass, the appeal here comes from the continuous succession of scenery throughout the ride.

From Villa La Angostura, the road quickly leaves the town behind and enters the forested landscape of Nahuel Huapi National Park. The riding is generally flowing rather than highly technical, with long sweeping bends and elevation changes replacing the tight hairpins found on major Alpine passes. Lakes repeatedly appear between the trees, creating a natural rhythm of corners, straights and viewpoints.

For a motorcyclist, the real reward is the combination of road and landscape. There is enough variation to keep the ride engaging without demanding the constant concentration of a high Alpine route, while the relatively remote setting gives the journey a genuine sense of escape. Lago Correntoso, Lago Espejo, Lago Villarino, Lago Falkner and Lago Machónico are among the highlights, with the landscape gradually changing as the road approaches San Martín de los Andes.

The Seven Lakes Route proves that a legendary motorcycle road does not need extreme elevation or endless hairpins. Sometimes the road is at its best when the scenery does the talking.

The route crosses remote sections of Patagonia, so weather and road conditions can change quickly. Summer generally offers the most reliable riding conditions, while colder months can bring snow and difficult conditions in the mountains. Fuel and services are limited between the main towns, making it sensible to start with enough fuel for the complete route. Wildlife, cyclists and slower vehicles can appear on the road, and viewpoints can become busy during peak holiday periods.

The Ride Beyond route begins in Villa La Angostura and heads west along Ruta Nacional 40 through the forests of Nahuel Huapi National Park. The first major highlights are Lago Correntoso and Lago Espejo, with the road alternating between dense forest and open views across the surrounding mountains and water.

Continuing west, the route reaches Lago Villarino and Lago Falkner. This section combines flowing bends with long stretches through the Patagonian forest, while the lakes provide natural points of contrast along the road. The relatively open character of the route makes it possible to enjoy the landscape without the concentration required on more technical mountain passes.

The road continues past Lago Machónico before approaching Lago Lácar and the outskirts of San Martín de los Andes. The final section gradually transitions from remote forest into the wider valley surrounding the town, bringing the Seven Lakes crossing to its natural conclusion.

The Seven Lakes Route is best ridden without chasing the clock. Keep the pace flowing, stop when the landscape demands it and allow the lakes, forests and mountains to define the rhythm of the ride.