In Punilla Department, mountain and nature destinations sit alongside water activities and places with a tradition of folklore and crafts. The examples below highlight different themes to help you choose where to stay.

Mountain landscapes and nature watching

At 1,979 metres, Cerro Uritorco is the highest point in northern Punilla. Quebrada del Condorito also makes a striking impression on the landscape: the V-shaped gorge is 800 metres high and 1,500 metres wide at its broadest point. Andean condors can be spotted from its upper edges; the national park is located partly in Punilla Department.

In Valle Hermoso, Vaquerías Nature Reserve covers approximately 400 hectares and features a Chaco Serrano ecosystem. The Cuevas de Ongamira offer a different nature experience, with visits dedicated to the history of the Comechingón people and to nature. The caves are in a private park, and admission is charged. Check the current visiting conditions in advance. At Los Terrones, there is a viewpoint reachable on foot in 15 minutes. Scenic views, nature watching and a short walk therefore offer different starting points for planning.

Reservoirs, sports and crafts

Punilla has five major reservoirs where visitors can fish. Sailing and motorised water sports are also possible at the reservoirs. At Dique San Roque in Villa Carlos Paz, activities include water sports, boat trips, pedal boat rides and diving. If you want to focus on activities on land, Cerro La Cruz in Villa Carlos Paz offers opportunities for trekking, climbing and cycling. These activities differ considerably, so when choosing your destinations, you can prioritise water activities or exercise in the mountains rather than treating them as a single combined programme.

Another option to consider when planning is the Camino de los Artesanos, which connects Villa Giardino and La Cumbre over nine kilometres. The route near Villa Giardino includes craft shops and businesses run by regional producers. It thus connects two places while also offering a connection to handmade goods and regional products. If this is a priority for you, you can treat the route as a separate part of your trip.

Folklore and built history

The National Folklore Festival in Cosquín was attended in 1961, 1962 and 1963 by delegations from every Argentine province and the countries of the Americas. A national decree designated the last week of January as National Folklore Week and named Cosquín as the host location.

Calle Techada in Capilla del Monte was built in 1964 to host the 1st International Photography Exhibition. It is considered the first covered street in Latin America. Its origins as a venue and its distinction as a covered street add another cultural theme to the history of folklore: built places and their original use.

Planning your stay and accommodation

When looking for a hotel, it is worth first deciding what you want to focus on and including the relevant places individually in your plans. Nature watching, reservoirs, activities at Cerro La Cruz, crafts and folklore offer different reasons for choosing where to stay. Check the admission requirements for the Cuevas de Ongamira before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Cosquín, Bialet Massé, Huerta Grande, Tanti, Villa Giardino, Villa Bustos, El Durazno, Villa Parque Síquiman, Cavalango, San Esteban, Villa Garcia, Tanti Nuevo, Villa Parque Lago San Roque, Santa María de Punilla.

To the main travel overview: Córdoba.