Hostal el Puesto

Small, cosy and well-kept riverside guesthouse, providing a simple but convivial base with some unexpectedly thoughtful touches.

The small, well-kept Hostel el Puesto, set on the banks of the Rio Tranquilo, is a cosy and convivial base for explorations in the surrounding Patagonian landscape, including to the nearby Capillas de Mármol. Though the six guestrooms and private cottages are simply appointed, care has been put into thoughtful touches that go beyond what you'd expect of a hotel in this category. Also much-commented-on by guests is the friendliness of the staff, who are more than happy to share their wide knowledge of the local area.

The inviting living room, warmed by an old-fashioned stove, is a lovely place to take respite after a hike or simply to curl up with a book when it's inhospitable outside. There's also a tiny restaurant serving home-cooked fare. Décor is in typical rustic Patagonian style throughout, making use of local materials with a particular emphasis on wood. Given the size of the lodge, there’s a surprising range of extra services – picnic lunches, massage, laundry, games for children and internet access are all offered, and there's even a small shop for picking up provisions.