Unbelievably beautiful: Embalse Potrerillos, reservoir in Argentina by Andreas Peters

The Embalse Potrerillos is an impressive reservoir in the province of Mendoza in Argentina, around 70 kilometres west of the city of Mendoza. Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, the lake lies in a breathtaking mountain landscape characterised by rugged peaks and gentle slopes.

The photo is from my long journey through North, Central and South America, about which I also wrote a book: "On the art of wanting nothing".

The lake was created in 2003 by damming the Río Mendoza and serves both as a water supply and to generate electricity and irrigate the surrounding agricultural land. The intense turquoise colour of the water is particularly striking, making the reservoir a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The region offers numerous leisure activities, including water sports such as sailing, kayaking and windsurfing as well as fishing, as the lake is rich in trout.

Hikers and trekking enthusiasts will also get their money's worth on the surrounding trails. There are also campsites and picnic areas that invite you to linger. The climate in the region is dry and semi-arid, with hot summers and cooler winters, although temperatures are more moderate than in the nearby desert region due to the altitude of around 1380 metres above sea level. In addition to its practical function as a source of water and energy, the Embalse Potrerillos is also very important for tourism in the region. The impressive nature and tranquillity of the place attract numerous visitors who want to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.