Even though this happened 15 years ago, I remember everything very clearly. The coldness of the water flowing down from the Andes, and heat extend of the hottest pool (127 degrees), the farmer's field across the river and the cows grazing about. A very amazing journey and (at that time) 7K of dirt roads strew with boulders and dry wash rivers, weaving in and out of tall now-extinct volcanic mountains. Breathtaking!
Pay the extra fee for the hydro pool.... it's well worth it, particularly in the summer when the sun is blazing down on the outside pools. The roof over the hydro pool provides much needed shade!
Don't miss the hike in the woods... take the path just to the right of the outdoor pools, along the river, and cross the swinging bridge. Follow the signs (arrows) up the hill for an amazing self-guided nature walk.
Lastly, avoid the cafeteria: overpriced and poor quality food. Stick to the restaurant (you´ll need to change, as swimsuits are not permitted in the restaurant). Both spots open for lunch at 1 pm.
The main covered pool was very good, and we were lucky to get early and be the very first and lone users of it for at least an hour before more people started to get by. The water temperature is perfect, and the steam along with the cold weather creates a very nice atmosphere.
On the bad side, the restaurant is a very expensive and not recommended experience. We´d ate the trout, and was greasy and very expensive, almost twice of a regular price in the area, because they charge the sides like rice or potatos apart. When I ask about that, the manager got a little angry, and not capable of hearing opinions. Not recommended, and will not be back to eat ever again.
I have been 2-3 times in te last 8 years, and I can hardly see any investment in infrastructure, which is getting worst over the time. The only ítem increasing is the entry Price for the pools (over 100 USD for a 4-familiy), which is way too high for this quality.
They also had the bad idea to have the kitchen (with fast food only) right in the neiberhood of the outside pools, with all frying smells in your nose.
After driving from Bariloche, Argentina across the border Hotel and Termas Huife was an oasis amongst a perfect setting. We arrived on a Sunday evening and had the place to ourselves. It was clean, spacious and exactly what we needed after all that driving. Don't think that you are lost when you hit gravel roads keep going, and if need be ask locals who are very willing to help. We were met by Gerado who was so accommodating with every request/ question we had.The cabin we had was very well equipped and spacious. We dined in that night as there are not many choices around the area. The food was good , just enough to get you through the night. But you go there for the pools. They were great, especially as my wife loves 37o C water temp. The grounds were kept pristine and the pools were constantly cleaned. One of the nicest things is waking up to the river sounds that are next to the property. Give yourself at least two days there, and try to stay when there are not many guests around. Ring through and check the booking schedule.
