San Rafael Department, Administrative department in Mendoza Province, Argentina
San Rafael Department is an administrative region in Mendoza Province in western Argentina that covers mountainous and agricultural lands. The city of San Rafael serves as its main center, with 18 districts spread across the territory.
The region was established in 1805 with the construction of Fort San Rafael del Diamante under Spanish control. This fort marked the beginning of Spanish presence in areas previously inhabited by Pehuenche peoples.
Italian and French immigrants brought their wine-making knowledge to the region in the early 1900s, and this heritage still shapes how locals live and work today. Wine production remains central to the community's identity and daily rhythm.
The region is connected by bus services linking its various districts together. San Rafael city serves as the main transit and commercial hub, making it easy to reach different areas.
Two rivers, the Atuel and Diamante, flow through the department and power major hydroelectric facilities. These waterways also create opportunities for water-based recreation and shape the landscape significantly.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Hotel Termas el Sosneado
160.3 km
Atuel Canyon
38.4 km
Pozo de las Ánimas
166.4 km
Volcán Maipo
148.2 km
Pierre Auger Observatory
112.4 km
San José
172.6 km
Agua del Toro Dam
66 km
Reserva Provincial Castillos de Pincheira
167.9 km
Tinguiririca Volcano
187.4 km
Marmolejo
174.1 km
El Morado Natural Monument
186.9 km
Historical Museum Vaults
170.6 km
Bodega La Azul
152.5 km
Volcán Palomo
181.5 km
Estadio Omar Higinio Sperdutti
187 kmGlaciar Universidad
185.4 km
Caldera del Atuel
86.3 km
San Francisco Glacier
187 km
Fuerte San Rafael del Diamante
21.6 km
Serranía El Peralito
155.9 kmSan Martín Airport
173.9 km
Uruguay Air Force Flight 571 Memorial
181 km
Espíritu Santo (volcano)
176 km
Cerro Arenas
183.1 km
Diamante
141.3 km
Museo Regional Americanista
183.9 km
Visit Valle de Uco
132 km
Molino Orfila Solar Histórico
169.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes