It’s often said that certain destinations are hotspots for outdoor activities and amazing landscapes, and in that category Bariloche is among South America’s finest. Tucked onto the shores of Lago Nahuel Huapi and framed by the picturesque peaks of Cerro Otto, Bariloche is a pretty town that reflects its early 20th-century influences through European-style architecture and cuisine.
The town itself is welcoming and full of interesting restaurants and bars, attracting a diverse range of visitors throughout the year. Bariloche is also the country’s capital of chocolate making, so a must for anyone with a sweet tooth!
Of the many things we love about Bariloche, the town is perfectly set up to make the surrounding Lake District accessible for all kinds of activities and day trips, as well as hosting some great hotels and a friendly population of locals.
Our Travel Guide to Bariloche uncovers some of the many highlights and reasons to visit Argentina’s Lake District on your journey through the country.
Bariloche is best known for its outdoor activities and stunning surrounding landscape of tree-covered hills, deep blue lakes and snow-dusted mountains. This is a year-round destination, perfect for skiing in winter and hiking or watersports during summer, with even the shoulder seasons offering plenty to do in and around the town, trekking forest trails and exploring the wider Nahuel Huapi National Park.
For elevated views across the lakes and forested hills that enclose them, Cerro Campanario viewpoint is the place to do it. The trail to get there is relatively short but steep, with all effort being rewarded by those panoramic vistas, and you can chairlift back to the bottom if preferred.
An essential activity while in Bariloche is taking the cable car up Cerro Otto, the town’s iconic mountain backdrop that has close connections with Mapuche folklore too. The cable car will take you over 1,400m up the mountain, and views from the top are simply spectacular.
Perhaps the most popular pastime in Bariloche is trekking the many mountain and forest trails throughout the Nahuel Huapi National Park. Among the best Bariloche hikes are:
Cerro Llao Llao: Taking roughly 2–3 hours, the trail gently winds through forest pathways before a steep incline, offering lovely views from the top.
Refugio Frey: A wonderful hike that ends at a lakeside, mountaintop cabin, ideal for experienced walkers, with sweeping views down to Lake Gutierrez.
Refugio Otto Meiling: A full-day (around 10 hours) trek that ends beside a mountaintop glacier, with a cozy cabin, log fire and incredible stargazing.
There are several scenic boat tours around Bariloche including Victoria Island and the Arrayanes Forest, and Puerto Blest, where you can disembark and hike to a nearby waterfall.
Argentina’s Lake District is ideal for kayaking. Expect calm waters, forested shores and dramatic mountain backdrops, particularly at Lake Gutierrez. Bariloche also has its own beaches — head to Playa Bonita, Centenario or Gutierrez for relaxing lakeside afternoons.
Though the area was inhabited by the Mapuche people centuries before European settlers arrived, there’s a Bavarian feel to Bariloche’s town center. Early 20th-century buildings now house stylish cafes, chocolate shops, restaurants and independent boutiques.
Just outside Bariloche, rolling grasslands and gentle hills make for excellent horse riding, with traditional estancias offering guided experiences.
Circuito Chico offers a great snapshot of Argentina’s Lake District in one route — passing pine forests, lakes, viewpoints and small villages. It can be driven or cycled.
The Route of the 7 Lakes, in the northern part of Nahuel Huapi National Park, is considered the most scenic drive in Argentina (best between September and March). Along the way, you can stop in Villa La Angostura or San Martín de los Andes, both charming towns worthy of an overnight stay.
Beyond its famous chocolate, Bariloche is a hub for craft breweries, local asados (traditional Argentine barbecues), and excellent steak and wine restaurants. Don’t miss trout, lamb dishes, pastries and yerba mate tasting.
Winter sports are a major draw, with powdery snow and a variety of slopes and off-piste trails around Cerro Catedral and Piedras Blancas.
As with any special journey, where you stay can be as important as the destination itself. Bariloche offers superb hotels and boutique lodges, including:
Perched on an exclusive ridge overlooking Lake Nahuel Huapi, Llao Llao is the most iconic luxury hotel in Bariloche. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining, an 18-hole golf course, spa, infinity pool and spectacular mountain views.
True to its name, El Casco showcases hundreds of artworks throughout its gardens and interiors. With lake views, a spa, pool, gourmet restaurant and beautifully decorated rooms, it blends culture and comfort seamlessly.
Set beside Lago Gutierrez within Nahuel Huapi National Park, this estancia offers an immersive nature experience with waterfalls, forest trails and horse riding routes. Cozy, traditional and refined, with welcoming staff and excellent cuisine.
A five-star boutique hotel with elegant architecture, lake views and top-tier facilities. Expect impeccable service, a luxurious spa and attention to detail throughout.
Located about 15 miles from Bariloche, on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, this secluded hotel offers a spa, indoor/outdoor pool, sundeck and a gourmet restaurant featuring a wood-fired oven.
A stunning waterside lodge near Villa La Angostura, blending boutique luxury with warm hospitality. Known for its exceptional gastronomy, beautiful rooms and respect for local culture.
Pack according to the season. Bring waterproof layers, solid walking shoes/boots and swimwear for summer activities. In winter, you can bring your own ski gear or rent locally. Sunscreen is recommended year-round.
June–August: Best for skiing
September–December: Great for hiking as trails open
December–March: Ideal for trekking and watersports
April–May: Cooler with more rainfall
Good Wi-Fi in most hotels, restaurants and bars, plus mobile coverage in and around town.
The Argentine Peso. Cards are widely accepted in town, but some remote areas prefer cash.
We recommend domestic flights plus a private guide/car for excursions. Bariloche has a domestic airport with regular flights from Buenos Aires.
Expect a wide range of dining options, from traditional asados to fine dining, tea houses and chocolate shops. Try steak, empanadas, trout and Patagonian lamb.
We recommend at least 3–4 days, with 5 days ideal to balance activities and relaxation.
No matter what your interests or group size, speak to the South America travel specialists at Atelier and they will craft your dream tailormade tour to Argentina and beyond.
