Cerro Llao Llao: the easiest viewpoint on the peninsula

Some hikes call for an early start, a heavy backpack and good fitness. Others, like the one up Cerro Llao Llao, can be done in a morning, with comfortable shoes and a wish to take in the view. This one belongs to the second group.

The trail starts on the Circuito Chico, shortly after Puerto Pañuelo, inside the Llao Llao Municipal Park. It is well signposted, with signs reading "Villa Tacul – Cerro Llao Llao", and it gains height gradually through the forest. After two kilometers a fork to the left appears, also marked, and from there the climb gets steeper. You pass a large telecommunications antenna and, right after, the viewpoint comes into sight.

The reward is a complete postcard: the Llao Llao peninsula and the route of the Circuito Chico, Lake Moreno, the López and Capilla peaks, and the Tristeza arm of Lake Nahuel Huapi. On a clear day there is no hurry to head back.

There are two options for the way back. You can retrace your steps or take the branch that goes down to Villa Tacul and its beaches, perfect for sitting by the lake before carrying on with the day.

Before entering the park you must register and pay the entrance fee; residents, retirees and children under 12 enter free. On very windy days the park stays closed, so it is worth checking before setting out. There are steep drop-offs at the viewpoint: keep an eye on children.

A short, generous and very photogenic hike.

• Type of tour: Scenic
• Difficulty level: Low
• Tip: Bring water and a light jacket; it is often windy at the viewpoint.