The red and turquoise hostel in Puente del Inca was built in 1903 and is located at 2,720 metres above sea level. The building was once a lean train station that saw passengerstravelling between Argentina and Chile, through the Andes.
Ten years ago, the building was purchased by a family who restored it, creating a bright and affordable accommodation for travelers. The hostel features rooms set following the building’s horizontal orientation, in order to maximize light from various angles throughout the day. An old wooden stove heats up the front room during snowy winters, while lamps illuminate the bunk-rooms after the sun sets.
Puente del Inca is an area famous for its mineral-rich, thermal waters, but some local artisans have also created a reputation out of turning random objects into sparkling gold souvenirs.
At less than u$s 20 a night, The Old Station is the (only) choice for eco and money conscious travellers going to the magnificent Aconcagua.
+ The Old Station (La Vieja Estación)
Photo © Ana Lisa Alperovich for Inhabitat
