Carriléufu Valley Lodge
Carrileufu Valley Lodge is based near the small town of Cholila, surrounded by what is arguably the most stunning scenery in all of Patagonia. It is quite fittingly where Butch Cassidy, the Sundance Kid and Etta Place, the most notorious ménage á trois in American history, chose to homestead in their epic run from the law. Much of the region still retains the frontier feeling sought by these outlaws over 100 years ago.
The lodge is conveniently located just outside the northern border of Los Alerces national park - a verdant, botanical nirvana home to some of Patagonia’s most exotic scenery and biodiversity. It is also the heart of the region’s trout fishing, and within the park’s astounding 1,000 square miles sits a staggering assortment of massive natural lakes, all linked by corridors of large, pristine rivers flanked by sumptuous curtains of dense Valdivian Rainforest. The system’s transparent waters often allow sight-fishing for its healthy population of rainbow, brown, brook trout and salmon, and pursuing them under the unique backdrop of bamboo thickets, sinuous cypress trees and snow-capped peaks is a curiously exotic experience, seemingly of another world. Indeed, fly fishing within this setting is one of Patagonia’s most sublime experiences.
Fishing Program
Fishermen at Carrileufu Valley Lodge will have access to more water than can possibly be fished in a week’s time, and will have a wide variety of water types at their disposal. Depending on conditions, angers will have the option of floating the Carrileufu, Rivadavia, Arrayanes, and Chubut rivers (multi-day float trips available). Fishing out of powerboats on a number of lakes is also available, and at the right time of year the dragon fly fishing can be mind-blowing. Let’s not forget the area’s spring creeks, where technical sight-fishing for oversized trout is the norm. With all this available water to fish anglers can have a different experience every single day of the week, and the fishing program can be tailored to your preferences and the current conditions.
Accommodations
Patagonia Fishing Hosts is operated by Pancho Panzer, a very experienced Patagonia fly fishing guide and entrepreneur, who speaks and writes excellent English. Pancho's team, all bilingual, includes other professional guides, outstanding cooks, and a maintenance staff to keep the lodge clean.
The Carriluefu Valley Lodge has five bedrooms. It generally sleeps two fishermen, each with private bathrooms and great views. The lodge structure is very cozy and comfortable, constructed with local timber and decorated in true Patagonian style.
The spacious great living room is the perfect place to relax after a long day of fishing, and anglers can avail themselves of the well-stocked open bar and great wine cellar. The comfortable couches allow a superb place to rest and take in the magnificent view of the mountains, as well as, share stories with your new friends. Wi-Fi internet access is available, and there is also a limited cell phone signal. For emergencies, there is a satellite phone.
We also offer a cabin near the main lodge with two bedrooms, private bathrooms, a great living room with a fire place and a TV with DirecTV for those who like to keep up on the news or their favorite teams.
The Barbecue Place is often used for big parties or at lunch time, as some days can be split into two different sessions. It is certainly possible to fish one section of a river in the morning, come back for lunch, take a little siesta, and go back for the afternoon fishing session. A very nice schedule indeed!
Food
Breakfast usually starts at around 8:30, and includes all kinds of eggs, bacon, jam, toast, fruits, juice, tea and coffee.
Lunch is normally along the river. It is usually an appetizing mix of homemade bread, cheese, salami, prosciutto, smoked trout, fresh salads and other appetizers with cuts of meat or chicken for a main dish and finished with a dessert. Wine, beer, sodas, water and coffee or tea are offered, as well.
Dinner is served at the Carrileufu Valley Lodge after getting back from the river. This is Patagonian food at its best, not to mention, served with some of the best wines you can find in Argentina such as the famous Malbec, which is our premium wine. Beer, liquor and soft drinks are also available in an open bar. For one special evening you can expect to be served a traditional lamb Asado, cooked on the cross, gaucho style. Simply delicious!
On fishing trips involving camping, we will provide a hearty breakfast to get ready for a long day on the water. For lunch we usually find a quiet spot where you will feel like you are in the middle of tranquil Patagonia with no other distractions besides you and open water. An indulgent experience to behold!
Dinner will consist of beef and lamb entrees with plenty of spirits, as well as, water and soft drinks. And, of course, fresh fruit, vegetables and snacks for any time of the day.
Travel
Most guests fly into the nearby town of Esquel. It’s a 2 hour flight, and there are four flights / week from Buenos Aires to Esquel.
Alternatively, guests can fly into Bariloche, which is a scenic three hour drive to the north. There are several daily flights to Bariloche.
Other Activities
See Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid’s cabin which is only 20 miles away.
Visit the Museum “LeLeque Estancia” (top photo at left), about 1 hour driving distance from the lodge, located on Beneton’s land which is abundant in the history of Patagonia.
Ride to the Museum on the old Patagonia Express train.
Travel to El Bolson Artisan Fair just 1 hour away.
Bird-watch for beautiful flamingos (yes they live here), condors and other wildlife.
Visit the Welsh Tea House about 12 miles away.
Hike, horse-back ride or trek on the many trails around the area.
Take photos with the noted Argentine photographer Diego Ortiz Mugica (www.ortizmugica.com).
Kayak on the beautiful natural waterways in the area.
Lie in the sun, breathe fresh air, enjoy great food and drink, commune with nature, and let your cares fade away!
Rates
$650/night/angler.
Included
- Ground transfer from Esquel to the lodge
- Meals, all wines, beer and local spirits
- Professional guide services
Not Included
- Gratuities for guides and house staff
- Airfares
- Buenos Aires transfers and hotels
Please feel free to ask us any questions you may have by dropping us a line at info@FarawayFlyFishing.com, or you can call or chat with us instantly using Skype and we'll start planning your fishing trip right away:
