Mendoza has numerous attractions that make it the ideal place for those who wish to stay in a glorious and stunning urban center, and also, simultaneously, get to see some amazing natural points. Well, it is perfectly possible to stay in on of Mendoza 5 stars hotel, and get to visit some incredible natural places not so far away from the metropolis itself, which allow getting back to town in the same day. Such a place is San Rafael.

San Rafael is one of the three havens of the desert province of Mendoza , Argentina. Atuel and Diamond Rivers run over the department and constitute the bulk of its attractions. Either as an alternative to holiday this summer or stop on a trip to Patagonia, San Rafael tourism offers an astounding scenery and many activities to enjoy with family or friends.

The beginning of San Rafael is situated in the colonial epoch. The need for a substantial defensive line against puelches, and the Mapuche Pehuenche ended up in the creation, in 1805, of the Fortress of San Rafael, in the current Villa 25 de Mayo. In the late nineteenth century started arriving European immigrants: the French, Italian and Spanish colonies were founded. The colony growth will end up in the naming of the French colony in 1903, as the capital of the department. It is now the urban center of San Rafael.

There is very much to do and see in San Rafael, like the Atuel Canyon. Only 37 kilometers from the center of the city of San Rafael, we arrive at Valle Grande dyke. A true haven of transparent clear water, beautiful scenery and rich flora. Around the man-made lake are all tourist services: accommodation in cabins or hotels, camping grounds, eating places and tea parlors. Moving upriver, we come to Canyon Atuel, glorious natural landscape formed by the passing of time wearing on the rocks. For adventure devotees, the site offers the chance for water sports such as windsurfing, canoeing, rafting, jet skiing and kayaking. The Canyon is also an ideal point for rock climbing, rappelling or just trekking vacation this summertime. Also you can go para sailing or hire a boat on the lake.

The Nihuil is another must see. Continuing the rise of the river Atuel beyond the canyon, we encounter with the Nihuil. This is a hydroelectric plant built in 1947 that forms a huge source where windsurfing is one of the most popular sports in the summer. On the coast of the artificial lake, is the Villa El Nihuil, where you can find all necessary amenities for tourism. Another major attraction is the practice Nihuil fishing. In the range of man-made lake is the Club de Pescadores de San Rafael, where you can find accommodation in camping grounds and cabins and restaurant to spend a wonderful holiday. The province covers a wide range of possibilities as to what accommodation refers: from pampering Mendoza 5 stars hotel to campgrounds, for all tastes and possibilities.