Bariloche: lakes, mountains and chocolate

The lakes and viewpoints

The essential half day is the **Circuito Chico**, a loop west of town past bays, forests and the famous Llao Llao Hotel. Stop at **Cerro Campanario**, where a short chairlift climbs to one of the most celebrated views in Patagonia, with lakes and islands spread in every direction. You can do the loop by local bus, tour or rented bicycle, and cycling it with lunch at a brewery is a local favourite.

Boat trips cross Nahuel Huapi to **Isla Victoria** and the **Bosque de Arrayanes**, a rare forest of myrtle trees with cinnamon coloured bark. Further afield, **Cerro Tronador** is an extinct volcano with hanging glaciers and the dark, debris covered Ventisquero Negro.

Hiking

Nahuel Huapi National Park has a network of trails and mountain huts, called refugios. Popular hikes include the walk to **Refugio Frey** beneath granite spires near Cerro Catedral, and the climb to **Refugio Otto Meiling** on Tronador. Many refugios serve meals and offer bunks, and some require booking. Register longer hikes with the park as instructed on the official site and carry layers, because weather changes quickly.

Skiing and winter

**Cerro Catedral**, a short ride from town, is the largest ski area in South America, with long runs and lake views. The season usually runs from about July to September. July brings Argentine school holidays and the busiest slopes. Chapelco near San Martín de los Andes is another good option in the region.

The Seven Lakes route

The **Ruta de los Siete Lagos** runs north from Villa La Angostura to San Martín de los Andes past a string of lakes, forests and waterfalls. It is one of the country's most loved road trips. Buses and tours cover it, and Villa La Angostura makes a lovely, quieter base for a night or two.

Food and chocolate

Bariloche is famous for chocolate: Calle Mitre is lined with makers whose shops are a treat for families. Local menus feature trout, Patagonian lamb, smoked meats, wild mushrooms and berries, and craft breweries line the Circuito Chico. In Colonia Suiza, families still prepare curanto, a feast cooked over hot stones in a pit, on certain days.

Where to stay

Stay in the centre for restaurants and buses, or along the lakeshore road towards Llao Llao for views and quiet. In winter, lodges near Cerro Catedral put you closer to the slopes. Book ahead for July, January and February.

Getting there

Fly from Buenos Aires in a little over two hours, or come by long distance bus. Bariloche also connects by road to Chile's Lake District. See how it fits with Patagonia's glaciers on our destinations page, and use the free trip planner to plan your route.