The mountains surrounding the city of Córdoba are a popular escape for Argentines looking for fresh air, lakes, and outdoor adventure without travelling far. Many day trips are possible from the capital.
North of Córdoba capital you'll find Valle de la Punilla, a valley full of interesting sites and famous amongst Argentineans. Towns like Villa Carlos Paz (on Lago San Roque), La Falda, La Cumbre and Capilla del Monte are very attractive to visit. Capilla del Monte attracts many visitors because of its famous Cerro Uritorco. You can walk to the top and at nighttime maybe experience some UFO's (which some have witnessed here).
East of Córdoba capital is the "Camino de Traslasierra", with amongst it the highest peak of Córdoba, the Cerro Champaquí (2790 mts). The Pampa de Achala is between Mina Clavero and Villa Carlos Paz and locates the National Park "Quebrada del Condorito". Here you can see the condor in its most western habitat. Visits can only be made with professional guides. Another way to experience Argentina in a different way is to climb the Cerro Los Gigantes (2374 mts).
South of Córdoba capital you will find the so called region of the great lakes. Heading towards the famous Sierras de Comechingones you'll find the town of Alta Gracia (with a very interesting Jesuit history), Villa General Belgrano (famous for its beers) and the historic town of Santa Rosa de Calamuchita. This "camino" brings you a lot of rivers and lakes, so fishing, sailing and waterskiing are popular.
Northeast of Córdoba capital is a huge interior sea. This so called "Mar Chiquita" was recently chosen by the inhabitants of Córdoba as the most beautiful natural sight of their province. The lake is well known for its abundant birdlife and is protected as a "Reserva Natural". So if you wanna see a flamingo before you travel further, go visit Mar Chiquita.