Belgrano Department: Trails, Water and Culture

Belgrano Department in the province of San Luis combines destinations with different points of interest. In Nogolí, religious trails, outdoor activities and bodies of water come together; Villa de la Quebrada is shaped by the Vía Crucis and annual celebrations. Around La Calera, historic lime kilns offer a glimpse into an industrial production process. When planning your trip, it is worth keeping local characteristics in mind and weighing them according to your interests.

Trails and Religious Culture

The Sendero de la Fe connects Villa de la Quebrada and Nogolí over 20 kilometers. It follows municipal roads in Nogolí and sections of Ruta 9 before ascending into the Sierras Centrales de San Luis in Belgrano Department. Along the trail are 14 crosses symbolizing the Stations of the Cross. The route thus combines religious symbolism with a mountain section and a stretch between two towns.

The Ruta del Macizo Central offers a different geographical perspective: it runs for 47 kilometers between Nogolí and Río Grande, crosses the highest section of the Sierras de San Luis and reaches 2,088 meters above sea level. At 47 kilometers, it is more than twice as long as the 20-kilometer Sendero de la Fe.

Outdoor Activities and Bodies of Water in Nogolí

Outdoor activities in Nogolí include trekking, mountain biking, horseback riding and rappelling. Canoeing is also available at Dique Nogolí; Dique y Embalse Nogolí is also considered suitable for non-motorized sports. Embalse Los Manantiales is used for recreation and tourism and offers opportunities for fishing, provided there is no closed season in effect.

The pools at Nogolí have calm water and are considered suitable for swimming and family outings. There are opportunities for walking and hiking in the surrounding area. Birdwatching and observing local wildlife are also among the activities in Nogolí. In addition to the water sports mentioned, visitors can therefore choose quiet nature observation and trails around the pools as different areas of interest.

Festivals and Regional Products

The patron saint's festival in Nogolí is celebrated every year on September 24. It is a religious and cultural celebration that attracts worshippers from across the region. The Fiesta de las Aguas Claras is also celebrated in Nogolí. If a festival is the reason for your trip, check the relevant event date in advance.

The Ruta del Olivo and local producers enrich Nogolí's gastronomic offerings with oils, sweets, honey and artisan products. Historic and rural estancias are also part of the area's character; some are associated with gastronomic offerings and rural tourism.

Villa de la Quebrada and La Calera

The Santo de la Quebrada is celebrated annually in Villa de la Quebrada, which is located in Belgrano Department. The Vía Crucis del Santo Cristo de la Quebrada is considered part of the cultural and historical heritage and a symbol of religious devotion. Its 62 Carrara marble sculptures are arranged in 14 groups and depict the Stations of the Cross of Jesus. The religious celebrations in Villa de la Quebrada and Renca include novenas, pilgrimages, processions, Masses and gaucho parades.

More than 16 traditional, simple, cylindrical stone lime kilns have been preserved around La Calera. They bear witness to an industrial production process of historical and cultural significance; at the same time, they are deteriorating. This place thus adds a glimpse into the department's industrial history to its religious and scenic themes.

Discover more destinations: Pozo Del Tala, Junín Department, Ayacucho Department, General Pedernera, Libertador General San Martín Department, La Capital Department, Governor Dupuy Department, Coronel Pringles Department.

Return to the main travel overview: San Luis.