Hostería del Pedregoso is a secluded lodge in central Patagonia, nestled on the shores of Lake Cholila and surrounded by pristine nature. Just 15 kilometers from the village of Cholila, meaning “beautiful valley” in the Mapuche language, the lodge offers a haven for fly fishing enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking tranquility. With only nine rooms, the Hostería provides an intimate experience where guests are welcomed like family friends.

Led by the warm hospitality of Chela Ruiz and Pepe, visitors enjoy personalized attention. Whether relaxing in the garden overlooking the lake, picnicking by the river, or landing trophy trout in clear streams, every moment is special. Chela’s gourmet meals, combined with the attentive service from expert fishing guide Tito Tagle and Carlos at the bar, ensure each stay feels like home.

The cuisine at Hostería del Pedregoso deserves special mention. Colombian author Alvaro Navarro has even published a book of some of the Hostería’s most beloved recipes, La cocina de la Hostería del Pedregoso, which features dishes made from local ingredients such as fresh river trout, Patagonian lamb, morel mushrooms, and mountain raspberries. Pepe’s cross-spit barbecued lamb with his special chimichurri garlic and pepper dressing is a standout, along with Chela’s mouthwatering Trout Terrine and her round steak in red wine and morel mushroom sauce.

For day outings and excursions, Chela prepares hampers filled with cold cuts, salads, and home-baked bread, magically produced from the back of a boat or truck, complete with a table, chairs, and all the necessary tableware for a stylish picnic.

A particular favorite among guests, especially fly-fishermen, is the Hostería’s bar, run by the ever-charming barman Carlos, who is renowned for his refreshing pisco sours — the perfect way to end a day of fishing, hiking, or horseback riding.