La Confluencia Lodge

What a beautifully appointed lodge in a perfect setting and location to access the various hiking trails and Refugios in the area. Spectacular Rio Azul runs behind the lodge and is accessible via stairway. My husband caught a trout and we also took a dip in the stunning turquoise water. Wood fired sauna and hot tubs, fresh from the garden food and super-friendly and welcoming staff. Just a quick downhill walk, past the cherry tree, over a suspension bridge and you find yourself at an open air “pub” and the parking lot that is the drop off point for many hikers. Nicholas arranged horseback riding, fly fishing and shopping for us, as well as transportation - we appreciated the personalized service!! A bit of a logistical challenge to get there for foreigners - Buenos Aires - fly to Bariloche - private transport or bus to El Bolson, but absolutely worth it. We happened to be there at just the right time (early December) before the post-Christmas high season, which we would recommend. If you want serenity, you can just hang out at the various comfortable corners and patios inside or outside of the building, walk around the property and enjoy the fresh air and sounds of the river.

We were 3 couples who stayed for two nights, and it was INCREDIBLE. We so wished we could have stayed longer. Helena and Mark and the staff made us feel part of the family. The chef Jorge was fantastic and very accomodating of special needs. (His empenadas were the best we tasted during our 3 week stay in Patagonia). The hottubs and sauna were awesome, as was the fireplace, and the stairs down the "la playita". We hiked up to the Cajon and fished in the river. Gustodio was extremely kind and helpful. And Julietta helped us immensely with communications with our airline after we encountered some problems for our return. We absolutely loved the place, and are very eager to return!