Holiday in San Carlos de Bariloche

What makes San Carlos de Bariloche special as a destination?

San Carlos de Bariloche, or Bariloche for short, lies at the foot of the Argentine Andes on the shores of the emerald-green Lago Nahül Huapi and is the gateway to Patagonia's most spectacular lake landscape. The city is aptly nicknamed 'Switzerland of South America' — the combination of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and a thriving chocolate culture strikingly resembles the Alps. The legendary Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Route of the Seven Lakes) is one of the most beautiful road trips in the world. Over 107 kilometers, the road winds past seven lakes in various shades of blue and green, surrounded by ancient Araucaria forests, waterfalls, and snow-capped volcanoes. Each curve reveals a new postcard motif. Bariloche is Argentina's undisputed chocolate capital. Avenida Mitre, the main street of the city, is lined with over 30 chocolaterías offering handmade pralines, truffles, and hot chocolate in countless variations. The tradition dates back to Swiss and German immigrants who brought their chocolate-making skills to their new home. In winter (June to September), Bariloche transforms into South America's most important ski resort. Cerro Catedral, just 20 kilometers from the city, is the largest and best-equipped ski resort in Argentina with over 120 kilometers of slopes and a vertical drop of 1,000 meters. The season attracts skiers from around the world who take advantage of the European summer for winter fun in the Andes. In summer (December to February), the region offers excellent hiking opportunities. The hike to Refugio Frey with the turquoise mountain lake at the foot of the granite needles is a classic. The Circuito Chico, a 60-kilometer panoramic road, leads past viewpoints, hidden swimming coves, and the famous San Eduardo Chapel. Nahül Huapi National Park, Argentina's oldest national park, surrounds the city and provides habitat for condors, pumas, and the rare Hümul deer, the national animal of Argentina. Isla Victoria and the Arrayanes Forest, a fairytale forest of cinnamon-colored myrtles, are accessible by boat tour and are among the most magical places in Patagonia.