Situated in the province of Río Negro, Argentina, Bariloche looks out on Nahuel Huapi Lake and the foothills of the Andes. Considered a “gateway” to Patagonia, the city is internationally renowned for its European-style alpine architecture. This “Little Switzerland” is home to a population of over 100,000 residents. Founded in 1902 by German settlers, “Bariloche” derives from the indigenous Mapudungun word for “people from behind the mountains.” As a strategic pit stop before hitting the Andes, Bariloche is a lively destination in its own right and attracts millions of tourists to its ski slopes and incredible surroundings. Don’t miss this charming city and plan your visit with Gray Line Worldwide today!
Tour Expert, Gray Line Bariloche
Cerro Campanario — Mt. Campanario, in more popular parlance — is a prominent hill located in the Lake District region of Patagonia, which itself consists of 260,000-square-miles of semi-arid scrub plateaus, vast steppes, and pockets of desert. Towering at over 1,000 meters above sea level, this hill provides world-renowned views of surrounding landscapes and the snow-capped Andes. Translating to “bell tower” in Spanish, Mt. Campanario is accessible via hiking trails and chairlift. At the top, guests can enjoy refreshments from the on-site cafe while marveling at the panoramic views below them.
Roughly 30 kilometers from Bariloche proper, the Llao Llao Peninsula falls within the Nahuel Huapi National Park. Situated in the heart of Patagonia, this peninsula is particularly known for its forested, mountainous, and lake-filled landscapes. This region derives its name from the word for “many branches” in the Mapuche language, which aptly reflects the lush surroundings and critical ecosystems protected within the park. For outdoorsy guests, plan a hike, go skiing in the winter, or play in the water during warmer months. Visitors wanting a little more “luxe” experience can book a stay at the Llao Llao Hotel, which is located in an early-20th century building with modern amenities like a spa, fine dining, and golf course.
Mount Cathedral is located only 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Bariloche, which makes it a popular destination for residents and visitors to the area. With one-of-a-kind views, Mount Cathedral is internationally recognized as Argentina’s premier ski resort. In the winter, the mountain offers extensive skiing and snowboarding opportunities with a range of slopes suitable for all skill levels. The remarkable granite spires that bear a resemblance to cathedral towers are nothing to scoff at when it comes to outdoor ambiances as well.
A small port located on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi in Río Negro Province, Argentina, Puerto Blest can be found at the end of the Blest Arm where the Frías River meets the lake. Roughly an hour’s drive from Bariloche, Puerto Blest was developed in tandem with Nahuel Huapi National Park. Once inhabited by the Mapuche indigenous people, the lake itself is named “island of the jaguar.” The settlement that would become Puerto Blest gained significance as a supply port and gateway for travelers navigating the breathtaking lakes and mountains of Patagonia. More importantly, it also is the primary connection point for the legendary Andean Lakes Crossing, on which travelers can travel from Argentina to Chile through a series of waterway and overland routes. Engage in various outdoor activities and explore an array of historical sites when you visit today.
Located in Nahuel Huapi National Park in Argentina, Los Cantaros Waterfall cascades over rocky cliffs from its origin point in Cantaros Lake. Dropping nearly 100 meters into the valley below, Cantaros Waterfall is one example of the breathtaking scenery typical of the Patagonian wilderness. Translating to “pitchers,” the waterfall’s name likely came from the rounded rock formations that resemble water pitchers at the site. The most common way to reach Los Cantaros is via a hiking trail that meanders through the lush Valdivian rainforest. Boat trips are available from Puerto Blest and are great opportunities for picture taking.
Tracing back to around 1902 when the national government formed the Nahuel Huapi agro-pastoral colony, Villa La Angostura translates to “Town of the Narrowing.” This description provides insight into the town’s geographical situation on the isthmus of the Quetrihué Peninsula. The area served as a crucial point of connection between the southern province of Neuquén and other regions. In the 1930s, Villa la Angostura began transitioning into a tourist hub centered on the nearby presence of Nahuel Huapi National Park. Buenos Aires families built vacation homes in the area, and the cozy village feel of the town draws visitors year-round. About an hour from Bariloche, Villa La Angostura is well-worth the trip for its historical, cultural, and edible treasures.
A stunning scenic drive located in Argentina’s Patagonia region, the Route of the Seven Lakes connects the towns of Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes. Bariloche is situated just off the highway in the south. This picturesque route — part of National Route 40 — is renowned for its views of lakes, forests, and mountains, which makes driving it a popular pastime for locals and visitors alike. According to cultural lore, Argentine revolutionary Ernesto “Che” Guevara traveled this road during his youth. As its name implies, the Route of the Seven Lakes is characterized by seven major lakes with surrounding trails primed for hiking, kayaking, and outdoorsy fun.
Victoria Island is a stunning natural attraction within Nahuel Huapi National Park in Argentina. Found on Lake Nahuel Huapi, the island is a mere 45-minute boat ride away from Bariloche, but introduces riders to the beauty of Patagonia. Derived from Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom, Victoria Island is intrinsically connected to the Mapuche people who inhabited the area long before European settlers arrived. With rock paintings along its shores and one-of-a-kind myrtle forests, the island is a paradise unto itself, particularly when surrounded by the turquoise waters of the lake and snow-capped peaks of the Andes. Victoria Island is home to several marked trails, including the Ex Vivero National Trail and Interpretation Path.
Named after the arrayán trees revered by the indigenous Mapuche people, the Arrayanes Forest is distinctive for the remarkably slow growth rate of its trees. The bark also peels very distinctively, with light, nearly-white surfaces revealed underneath. Declared a national park in 1971, the forest is an example of state conservation efforts to deter damage to the fragile ecosystems threatened by human interference. Plan a hike on the 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) of the Sendero de los Arrayanes trail and see the incredible trees for yourself.
Beginning in the 1930s, the Centro Cívico’s construction coincided with Bariloche’s transformation into a tourist destination following the establishment of Nahuel Huapi National Park. Structures in the center of the space are created from local materials, including cypress and stone. The traditional Alpine aesthetic attracts locals and visitors to the central grassy pavilion for fairs, events, and festivals. The Museo de la Patagonia is located within the Centro Cívico and showcases exhibits on the indigenous peoples of the region, local fauna, and geological features. The clock tower and an array of chocolate shops, cafes, and boutiques are also popular, particularly as Bariloche has earned the designation of being the chocolate capital of Argentina.
Discover the Best Wine Regions to Visit During Harvest Season Wine lovers know that harvest season is the most excitin[...]
Argentina Chile Europe
Welcome to Ushuaia – the southernmost city on Earth, often called "The End of the World." Surrounded by the snow-capped A[...]
Argentina Ushuaia
Museums bring history, creativity, and culture to life in unforgettable ways. For travellers who love art, architecture, [...]
Amsterdam Berlin Budapest
The Cuenca transportation was modern. Clean, comfortable, timely, and efficient. The Cuenca drivers and tour guides were truly friendly, knowledgeable, helpful, patient, concerned, and enjoyable to visit with about the cultures, languages, beautiful landmarks, animals, etc. We ha...
Me encantó la dinámica, este servicio le brinda a los turistas la oportunidad de conocer cada rincón de la ciudad.
Tour was great, definitely met our expectations!