One moment, you’re driving through a winding road with dry mountain scenery on all sides. Then, you pass through a tunnel…and everything changes. Blue waters stretch out ahead, and suddenly there’s no agenda, only water and nature.
After spending months in and around Mendoza, Argentina, I can safely say that Potrerillos is my favorite part. Its dazzling cerulean waters offer a stunning contrast to the dry mountains that surround it, and it’s a hub for activities of all kinds, as you’ll see.
The Iconic Tunnel
I spent enough time in Mendoza to understand that the arrival at the Potrerillos reservoir is an iconic moment. That’s because you have to drive through a gigantic tunnel along the highway, and at the last second, it opens to reveal the magnificent view of the sparkling, massive reservoir. The first time I saw this incredible view, my jaw dropped.
In a way, the drive on Ruta 7 from Mendoza city to the reservoir is symbolic of leaving civilization behind. And the moment you pass through that famous tunnel, you’ve crossed through a threshold. Whenever I see that view of Potrerillos, I feel a mix of peace and excitement for what’s ahead.
Weekend Getaway: A Cabin in Potrerillos
It’s all well and fine to go to Potrerillos for the day, but a whole weekend away there? Phenomenal. I found a lovely cabin near the reservoir, nestled away in total privacy. Hot tub included. Spending a few nights there was complete bliss, especially in the summer, when lying out by the water and jumping in to cool off felt refreshing.
I loved spending lazy mornings in the cabin, surrounded by endless nature. Activities optional; a glass of wine obligatory. With mountain views in the background through wide windows, I was more than happy to take a breather and scroll through local channels on a small TV tucked in the cabin corner. Hiking can wait (sometimes).
Hiking & Climbing
On the other hand, Potrerillos completely satisfies my constant need for adventure. There’s a rock climbing zone in Cacheuta, where I did a multi-pitch climb with a guide and a friend. It’s an unexpected place to rock climb, at least to the naked eye. It’s tucked away from the road, a ten-minute walk after we parked the car off the side of the road.
But I’ve had many more low-key adventures around Potrerillos. There are plenty of trails that wind through the nearby foothills, walkable and welcoming (save for some thorny plants). My favorite part about the surrounding trails is the views. From many of these trails, you can see picturesque views of the reservoir.
Not only that, but I’ve had enough luck to see some wildlife on trails around the reservoir. I’ve seen rabbits, a fox, and plenty of lizards. And, in good Andes fashion, I’ve seen condors flying high above. Even on an easy or moderate hike, it’s possible to enjoy all of these sights.
Lakeside Life
Give me time by any body of water, and I’ll be happy; give me time on the peaceful shore of Potrerillos, and I’ll be thrilled. This reservoir feels enchanting in a way that other lakes or reservoirs simply don’t. I believe it has to do with the distance from the city and the feeling of being hugged by the surrounding Andes foothills.
Potrerillos is huge, with plenty of space to drive around and pull up in your own section. In good Argentinian style, I’ve had many an asado by the shoreline, each time in a different spot. The playbook goes like this:
- Arrive in Potrerillos
- Find a spot (preferably with spots that have already seen many asados; they’ll have rock shelters built around where the fire goes)
- Park, unpack
- Set up blankets, chairs, etc.
- Start cooking and relaxing!
Add a crisp beer or local red wine to the mix, and believe me, it’s pure bliss. I’ve gone on Saturdays and Sundays, and if you go on a weekend, just know that it’ll be pretty busy if the weather’s good. But from my experience, it’s spacious enough so it doesn’t feel claustrophobic with crowds.
Of all the moments I’ve spent in Potrerillos, going with a group to scuba dive stands out. It was in winter, so the temperature was fair. The sun was strong enough to dry gear and wet towels after our chilly scuba dive. The group’s “asador” (the one managing the fire and the meat) was not to be rushed. Smoke from the fire drifted up into a clear blue sky, with the reservoir lapping quietly in the background.
The scenery was vibrant, but the feeling of being lost in time, picking at appetizers before the asado was ready, chatting and laughing, was the real highlight. When you go out to Potrerillos, there is no time limit. All there is to do is get lost in the day and be part of the landscape.
An Afterthought: Entre Dos Café
I could never say no to a sweet treat, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at the Entre Dos Café on the drive back from Potrerillos. This roadside stop is more than just grabbing an afternoon coffee and alfajor; it’s part of the experience, part of the long drive to and from the reservoir.
One evening after an extended day hike, we stopped by here to grab a refreshment. In case you’re not familiar with alfajores, they’re a beloved Argentinian dessert. An alfajor is basically a soft sandwich cookie, filled with dulce de leche and covered in chocolate. Entre Dos is a brand of alfajores. And during this particular stop, I was lucky enough to sample their seasonal flavor—pistachio.
Potrerillos: The Perfect City Escape
Potrerillos was never simply a destination for me; it was an experience. It meant taking a mental break from everything else going on or from work in the city or from whatever other stress fell on my shoulders. This place isn’t intense or flashy. It’s calm, warm, and always inviting. In an image, you may see water and mountains. But up close, you feel connection and peace. What is it about Potrerillos that draws you in the most?
