Mirador Bandurrias

Classic viewpoint above town with the postcard view over Lago Lacar and San Martín.

Mirador Bandurrias is the short walk that nearly everyone should do in San Martín. The trail climbs from near the lake through cypress forest to a natural balcony over Lago Lacar, with the town tucked below and mountains layered to the west.

It is close enough for a half-day outing but steep enough to feel earned. Go early or late for softer light, and bring cash for the community access fee.

things to do sight viewpoint hiking
A story
The viewpoint is on Mapuche Curruhuinca community land, and visitors usually pay a small access fee. That detail matters: the view is not just scenery, but part of a living indigenous territory around the town.