Potrero de los Funes
San Luis
Potrero de los Funes is a scenic reservoir and town located 18 km northeast of San Luis, Argentina. The lake, originally dammed in 1860 and rebuilt in 1876 after flooding, serves as a popular recreational spot surrounded by mountains. The current reservoir was inaugurated in 1927 to meet the growing water needs of San Luis. The area offers diverse outdoor activities including fishing, kayaking, hiking, and cycling, enhanced by the natural beauty of the surrounding sierras. The town developed around tourism, featuring numerous hotels including the notable Hotel Potrero de los Funes. The 6.25 km Potrero de los Funes Circuit hosts national and international motorsport events such as the Súper TC 2000 and FIA GT Championships. Additionally, the town is recognized as Argentina's National Capital of Chess, hosting the 2005 World Chess Championship. The local climate is mild year-round, making it an attractive destination for festivals like "El Fogón y el Lago," showcasing folkloric music and culture. The nearby Parque Nativo offers native flora, recreational facilities, and panoramic views of the lake and mountains, enhancing the visitor experience.
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Tip: The best time to visit Potrero de los Funes is during the mild climate months, especially summer, when outdoor activities and the folkloric festival "El Fogón y el Lago" take place. Visitors are advised to book accommodations in advance, particularly for events like motorsport races or the chess championship. Recreational permits or fees may apply for fishing and water sports. The area offers discounts for groups and early bookings. Renting equipment for kayaking, cycling, and other sports is widely available. Plan your visit to include the scenic Parque Nativo and the motorsport circuit for a full experience.
Interesting facts
- •The original dam on the site was one of the first levees built in South America.
- •Potrero de los Funes hosts a world-class 6.25 km motorsport circuit that has held international events like the FIA GT Championship.
- •In 2005, the town hosted the World Chess Championship featuring the top 8 chess players globally.
- •The name 'Potrero de los Funes' originates from the Funes family who owned the original land where the dam was built.
- •The town’s population grew by 80% between 2001 and 2010, reflecting its rising tourism importance.
History
The site of Potrero de los Funes was first dammed in 1860 on land belonging to the Funes family.
After the original levee was destroyed by flooding, it was rebuilt in 1876.
The current reservoir was inaugurated in 1927 to supply water to San Luis.
The town was officially founded in 1975, separating administratively from El Volcán.
Construction of the Hotel Internacional Potrero de los Funes began during the 1970s but was interrupted by a military coup, resuming later with the return of democracy.
In 2017, the town was declared the National Capital of Chess, reflecting its cultural development and recognition.
Place Guide
Potrero de los Funes Reservoir1927
A scenic artificial lake surrounded by mountains, popular for fishing, kayaking, and other non-motorized water sports. It offers beautiful panoramic views and recreational areas.
Potrero de los Funes Circuit2008
A 6.25 km semi-permanent racetrack around the lake used for national and international motorsport events such as Súper TC 2000 and FIA GT.
Hotel Potrero de los Funes
A notable four-star hotel with 97 rooms that serves as a central accommodation hub for tourists and event attendees.
Parque Nativo
A 7-hectare park featuring native and exotic flora, picnic areas, playgrounds, and panoramic views of the lake and surrounding sierras. It offers facilities for fishing and water activities like kayaking and pedal boats.
