Camino al Filo (El Filo Serrano)
Experience breathtaking mountain vistas on the zig-zagging Camino al Filo, offering unparalleled panoramic views of San Luis.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Maximizes stunning vistas
Camino al Filo (El Filo Serrano)
Best Time
Maximizes stunning vistas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking mountain vistas on the zig-zagging Camino al Filo, offering unparalleled panoramic views of San Luis.
"The view is breathtaking but the cafeteria is awful! Very bad treatment on part of the staff."
🚗 Vehicle Check
Ensure your vehicle is suitable for gravel roads. Some sections can be challenging, especially after rain or with ice .
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Bring your camera! The 'Villa de Merlo' sign at Mirador del Tala Caído is a popular spot for souvenir photos .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mirador del Sol
Mid-Filo Serrano
Reach 1,470 meters for panoramic views that change with every curve. A true feast for the eyes and soul.
Mirador de los Cóndores
Highest point of El Filo Serrano
Experience the absolute highest point of the Filo Serrano, offering unparalleled vistas and a sense of being on top of the world.
Scenic Drive
The entire route
A zig-zagging road offering ever-changing landscapes, pure air, and breathtaking views that feel like a painted masterpiece.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Restaurant Woes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Vehicle Check
Ensure your vehicle is suitable for gravel roads. Some sections can be challenging, especially after rain or with ice.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Bring your camera! The 'Villa de Merlo' sign at Mirador del Tala Caído is a popular spot for souvenir photos.
💧 Pack Snacks & Water
Given mixed reviews of the on-site cafeteria, it's wise to bring your own refreshments.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for temperature changes throughout your journey.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Vehicle Check
Ensure your vehicle is suitable for gravel roads. Some sections can be challenging, especially after rain or with ice.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Bring your camera! The 'Villa de Merlo' sign at Mirador del Tala Caído is a popular spot for souvenir photos.
💧 Pack Snacks & Water
Given mixed reviews of the on-site cafeteria, it's wise to bring your own refreshments.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for temperature changes throughout your journey.
🗺️ Check Road Status
Before heading out, confirm the road is open and safe, especially during winter months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the absolutely breathtaking and unparalleled views from El Filo Serrano, describing the scenery as magical and unforgettable. However, many report extremely negative experiences with the on-site cafeteria staff, citing rudeness and poor service, which significantly detracts from the overall visit for some.
"The view is breathtaking but the cafeteria is awful! Very bad treatment on part of the staff. We ended up going to a different place when the waitress started badmouthing us. Save yourself the bad experience."
Ur Bertea
"Amazing view!!!
The restaurant, however, leaves a lot to be desired.
We had to go somewhere else… rude waitress, nonsense rules about not being able to join tables together… they charge you for stepping in and refund when you buy something in the restaurant to ensure you don’t just go for the looks.. Terrible experience. Seems they don’t care for tourists."
Luciano Semerini
"Bellisimo"
Angie Paredes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Camino al Filo, also known as El Filo Serrano, is located about 20 km from Merlo, San Luis. You'll typically take Route 5, which leads you up the winding mountain road. A vehicle suitable for gravel roads is recommended.
The road is a mix of paved and gravel sections. While some parts are paved, many visitors mention driving on gravel roads, especially when exploring further attractions off the main route.
While some visitors manage with regular cars, it's advisable to have a vehicle with good clearance or a 4x4, especially if you plan to explore side paths or if road conditions are not optimal.
Public transportation directly to Camino al Filo is limited. It's best to visit with your own vehicle or consider hiring a local tour or taxi service from Merlo.
The drive to the Mirador de los Cóndores, the highest point, is approximately 20 km from Merlo, but the journey itself, with its winding roads and stops, can take longer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the main scenic route and viewpoints like Mirador del Sol is generally free. However, specific attractions or parks along the route might have separate entrance fees.
The road is typically open year-round, but it's crucial to check local conditions. It can be closed due to weather, especially ice in winter. There are no set operating hours for the scenic drive itself.
The primary viewpoints along the Camino al Filo, such as Mirador del Sol and Mirador de los Cóndores, do not typically have an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty for free!
Yes, many local tour operators in Merlo offer guided tours to El Filo Serrano, which can be a great option if you don't have your own vehicle or prefer to have a guide explain the sights.
The main restriction is road accessibility, which can be affected by weather. Always check local advisories before your visit, especially during the colder months.
📸 📸 Photography
Every curve offers a new perspective! Mirador del Sol and Mirador de los Cóndores are prime locations. Don't miss the 'Villa de Merlo' sign at Mirador del Tala Caído for a classic souvenir shot.
Late afternoon during the 'golden hour' provides magical lighting for the landscapes. Clear sky days are also ideal for vibrant, panoramic shots.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the expansive vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting wildlife or distant geological features.
Look out for the unique rock formations, the changing colors of the mountains throughout the day, and any local flora and fauna you might encounter.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafeteria located on the route. However, reviews consistently mention poor service and rude staff, leading many visitors to dine elsewhere.
The town of Merlo offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes. It's recommended to eat in Merlo before or after your drive to avoid potential issues with the on-site cafeteria.
Absolutely! Given the reviews of the on-site cafeteria, packing your own snacks, water, and a picnic is a highly recommended strategy.
While not always designated, there are many scenic spots along the route where you can pull over and enjoy a picnic with a view. The Mirador del Tala Caído is one such spot.
Merlo offers diverse culinary options, from traditional Argentine parrillas to local specialties and international cuisine. You can find everything from casual eateries to more upscale dining.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Adventure Seekers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Drive: Camino al Filo
As you ascend, the scenery transforms, showcasing the unique geology and flora of the region. The road can be challenging, with gravel sections and steep inclines, making a suitable vehicle a plus. It's important to be aware of changing weather conditions, as ice can make the road treacherous in winter, sometimes leading to closures. Despite these potential challenges, the sheer beauty and the sense of adventure make the Camino al Filo a must-do for anyone visiting Merlo.
Key viewpoints along the route include the Mirador del Sol, situated at an impressive 1,470 meters above sea level, and the Mirador de los Cóndores, the highest point offering expansive panoramas. Other notable spots include the Mirador del Tala Caído, featuring a large 'Villa de Merlo' sign perfect for photos, and the Mirador del Tala Caído itself, a great place for birdwatching and enjoying a mate. The journey is often described as a visual and emotional journey, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
Navigating Road Conditions and Safety
When planning your visit, consider the type of vehicle you'll be using. While some visitors have navigated the route in standard cars, a vehicle with higher clearance or four-wheel drive is often recommended, particularly if you intend to explore any off-road detours or if the weather has been unfavorable. Driving slowly, being attentive to the road surface, and avoiding distractions are paramount for a safe and enjoyable experience. The beauty of the landscape is best appreciated when you prioritize safety.
Safety tips include ensuring your vehicle is in good condition, carrying a full tank of gas, and having a basic emergency kit. It's also wise to inform someone of your travel plans and expected return time. While the views are the main draw, being prepared for the road conditions ensures you can fully soak in the experience without unnecessary worry.
Beyond the Drive: Nearby Attractions
For those seeking more adventure, the area near the border of San Luis and Córdoba, accessible from El Filo, offers destinations like El Salto del Tigre and Pueblo Escondido. These spots promise guaranteed adventure and are often featured in dedicated travel vlogs. Remember that these might require a vehicle more suited for rough terrain.
Merlo itself is a charming town with various points of interest, including waterfalls like the Tabaqui jump and the Piscuyaco dam, as well as the Belis Lower Provincial Park. Many visitors also choose to stay in accommodations with incredible views, such as hotels and cabins offering panoramic vistas of the Sierras, enhancing the overall experience of the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit