Travel guide to Bariloche, Argentina
Andean Trails and its team lend their advice on the best attractions to enjoy in Bariloche, as well as some great restaurants to sample.
Alan writes:
“San Carlos de Bariloche nestles into the Argentine side of the Northern Patagonian Andes surrounded by snow-capped mountains, deep blue lakes and forests of larch, cypress and myrtle.
This is a destination where you can really enjoy the great outdoors in a stunning natural setting. If you seek action there are a plethora of trekking trails as well as opportunities for biking, kayaking, white water rafting and horse riding.
Bariloche is a great adventure holiday destination – check our multi-activity trip for inspiration.
Bariloche – an overview
The town itself, with a population of a little over 100,000 people, is an all round destination as it is also a centre for winter sports with a world renowned ski centre on its doorstep at Cerro Catedral.
Immigration in the mid 19th century from Germany, Austria and Switzerland have influenced the Alpine style architecture – and not to forget the many famous chocolate factories in the area.
Over the years, many of the Andean Trails team have had the good fortune to visit Bariloche.
Our experiences
When Alan visited, arriving on the Lake Crossing from Chile, he was stunned by the scenery that greeted him.
He said: “Sailing across Lake Nahuel Huapi on a sunny day with the mountains and forests surrounding you and the water shimmering was an out of this world experience.
I made the most of the fantastic beef restaurants and chocolate shops, buying chocolate for presents only – honest – and I really enjoyed the cable car ride up Cerro Otto, with the incredible views from the top.”
On Kat’s visit, she had a much more adventurous time, white water rafting, trekking and mountain biking.
She said: ” I didn’t stop whilst in Bariloche. It was one great adventure after another. The variety of things that you could do was amazing”.
Kathy Jarvis is much more practical with her recommendations focusing on fun things you can do with children:
She said: ” In Bariloche you must eat chocolate, also eat a fondue in one of the many Swiss restaurants, take a day walk to the Frey Refuge on Cerro Catedral, and then visit the Dino Park.”
Local viewpoint
From a local perspective, Andean Trails’ local partner Andrea Ginaca recommended the following:
“As a local, I enjoy a visit to the lake side public beaches, such as Playa Bonita, Bahía Serena, and Lago Moreno.
“They are nearby, accessible and blessed with stunning scenery.”
Where to eat and drink in Bariloche
To eat you might wish to try:
La Fonda del Tio (family run restaurant, traditional Argentine fare with and Italian flavour) Bartolome Mitre 1130. Tel: 0294-4435011.
El Boliche “de Alberto” (Meat lovers delight) Villegas 347, Tel: 0294-4431433 or Elflein 158, Tel: 0294-4434564.
Mamushka (chocolate), Mitre 298, Tel: 0294 443-5365.
La Marmite (fondue), Mitre 329, Tel: 0294-4423685.
For a beer or two:
Cervecería Patagonia (Microbrewery on the shores of Lake Moreno. Great beer with views) Circuito Chico Km 24,7. Tel: 0294-4450124.
Cervcecia La Cruz (Good gastro pub, family friendly, beer garden, sometimes has photographic or art exhibitions). Nilpi 789. Tel: 0294-4442634.
Berlina (Microbrewery – one of the best in Patagonia) Ruta 79 y F. Goye s/n – Colonia Suiza. Tel: 0294-4454393.
And for the over 18 night owls looking to shake their bootie:
Wikkeny. Irish Pub in name only – good for a drink, a dance and to meet people. Food options also available.
Av. Gral San Martin 435, Tel: 0294-4424444.
No matter what, you will have a great time in Bariloche.
