Santa Rosa de Calamuchita

Santa Rosa de Calamuchita sits on the Santa Rosa river in the valley that runs south from Córdoba between the Sierras Grandes and the Sierras Chicas, and it has grown into one of the busiest holiday towns of the region without losing a relaxed, low-rise character. The river is the centre of summer life, with beaches, shallow pools and shaded picnic spots along its banks, and the town has a strong craft beer scene of its own, distinct from the German styles of nearby Villa General Belgrano. Around it the valley offers the Los Molinos reservoir for watersports, walking trails into the hills, and quiet villages such as Yacanto and La Cumbrecita within easy reach.

What you actually see

• The river beaches - swimming spots and shaded banks through the town.
• The craft breweries - local beer made and served in town.
• The valley base - access to Los Molinos lake and the surrounding villages.
• The plaza and market - the town centre with craft stalls in season.

When to go

December to March for river swimming and full services; January is the peak, with crowds and higher prices. Spring and autumn are calm and pleasant. Winter is quiet, cold at night, with reduced services.

Honest expectations

In peak summer the town and its beaches are crowded, parking is hard and prices climb. Outside summer the river is too cold for most visitors, which removes the main attraction. The town has few sights of its own.

Nearby

Villa General Belgrano is a short drive north; La Cumbrecita lies west up the valley.