Villa la Angostura
Villa la Angostura (or La Angostura for short) is an upmarket resort town in the Neuquén Province of Patagonia, Argentina. Even though it’s called a “village”, it has a population of approximately 11,000 inhabitants and is more aptly described as a town, although in comparison to
Bariloche Angostura definitely feels village-like.
In a similar vein to Bariloche and other Patagonia towns, Villa la Angostura has beautiful alpine wooden buildings and the requisite chocolate shops. The major difference is that Villa la Angostura is much smaller and quieter than “Braziloche”, and has a more laidback approach. The surrounding landscape compliments the quiet harmonious nature of Villa la Angostura.
“Angostura” in Spanish means “narrowness” which refers to the width of the Quetrihué Peninsula where the town is nestled.
Where is Villa la Angostura?
The town is situated on the northwest shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi, about 70km/43miles north of
San Carlos de Bariloche, and 108km/67miles south of
San Martin de los Andes.
Villa la Angostura forms the start of the Siete Lagos Camino (the 7 lakes road), an incredibly scenic route that travels through two national parks and past various lakes, forests, mountains, and streams.
The Bariloche airport is commonly used as the gateway for Villa La Angostura. Flights from Buenos Aires to Bariloche take two hours, and from the airport you can either
rent a car or take a bus or taxi to Villa Angostura.
Cerro Bayo Ski Resort
With the
Cerro Bayo ski resort only 15 minutes (9km/5.5miles) from town, the main tourist trade in winter is related to skiing and snowboarding. Cerro Bayo is reasonably small and markets itself as a boutique ski resort. Cerro Bayo offers spectacular views across Lago Nahuel Huapi, and some of the runs feel like they almost drop off directly into the lake.
Villa la Angostura Hotels and Accommodation
There are many
Villa la Angostura hotels and hosterias, apart hotels, and cabins (cabanas). For the budget oriented there are also at least five hostels.
Many of the Angostura accommodations overlook the water and are just beautiful. You can feel like you’re on a getaway for the rich and famous, even if you’re not rich or famous!
Villa La Angostura Accommodations Listings
Town Facilities
In addition to shops to support the ski and snowboard trade, Villa la Angostura has many artisan craft shops and tea houses. The town attracts various high quality chefs and the restaurants are renowned for the gastronomical delights.
The nightlife might not be as outrageous as that in the larger towns, but Villa la Angostura can still put on a little bit of a party scene.
More Reasons to Visit Villa la Angostura
This Lakes District area has gorgeous scenery. Alternatively the vistas could be described as gob-smacking, jaw dropping, or just phenomenal! You’ll find it difficult to stop ogling the views of the lakes, inlets and the snow capped mountains. The town itself and the buildings are also really attractive because this is an affluent area with beautiful architecture, and thankfully there are no ugly high rise developments.
Villa la Angostura is an idyllic place for a relaxed getaway. You’ll quickly find yourself getting into the very stress-free pace of Villa la Angostura.