Where to go

Bariloche and the Lake District

This stunning region of lakes and valleys is a must see...

Bariloche and the Lake District - Bariloche lake
Bariloche and the Lake District - Bariloche lake

The many lakes and mountains that surround the small, Alpine town of Bariloche make it one of the prettiest areas in the whole of Argentina. Unlike other areas of Argentina that are starved of rains and moisture due to the imposing Andes range, the Argentine Lake District is a verdant region that is anything but, and this makes for some spectacular views and vistas. Also known as one of the best fly fishing areas in Argentina and the world, there are quite a few activities to get up to while visiting the Lake District. While it may not have the famous draws of other areas such as El Calafate or Iguazu, it is still definitely right at the top of our list.

Centered on the Nahuel Huapi Lake and National Park, Bariloche, Villa La Angostura and San Martin de los Andes are the principal towns in the Argentine Lake District and punctuate the many rivers, lakes and streams. Of these, Bariloche is certainly the most famous and is often the starting point for any visitor to this idyllic region of Argentina.

The history of Bariloche

This sleepy town has a population of around 100,000 to date and it sits right on the southern shores of the Nahuel Huapi, inside the national park of the same name. Originally founded in 1902 it is understandable as to why it has become so popular, with its picturesque setting and easy access to the nearby mountains, the lake and the many walking trails through the forests.

The Argentine Lake District

As the Argentine Lake District has grown in popularity, the town has grown (some would argue by too much) and so it is not somewhere that we overly recommend to clients or honeymooners. Part of the reason for this is that many of the hotels downtown have been built with skiing in mind…for use as a place to come back to at the end of the day and relax in a Jacuzzi or sauna rather than to use off and on during the day.

For us, there is much more benefit in either heading out to the west, to the famous Llao Llao Peninsular or to the northern towns of “Villa” or San Martin de los Andes.

Click here to view some video footage of the area.

Best time to visit Bariloche and the lake district:

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    At a glance…The Lake district

  • Size: Approx 100,000 sq kms
  • Location: Mid-Western Argentina
  • Recommended time: 3 to 5 nights
  • Time to visit: Year round
  • Go here for: Outdoor activities, food & wine, skiing
  • Further reading...

  • › Villa la Angostura
  • › San Martin del Los Andes
  • › Nature and Wildlife
  • › What to do in the Lake District
  • Our top five hotel recommendations for Bariloche and the Lake District:

    1. Correntoso Lake and River Hotel

      Correntoso Lake and River Hotel

      The Correntoso Lake and River Hotel is located right on the shores of the Nahuel Huapi Lake and offers a tranquil haven to rest and revitalise. Having been here for around 70 years, the hotel has a familiar feel to it, combining Beech and Lenga woods and plush leather and fabrics. The rooms have... More...

      Our rating:
      4
      User rating:
      4
      Price:
      4
    2. El Casco Art Hotel

      El Casco Art Hotel

      Definitely the pick of the “out of town” hotels, the El Casco Art Hotel is one of the top hotels in the region. As the name implies, the main theme of the hotel is based around art, which is featured in all the rooms and main areas. The rooms are opulent and luxurious and all feature superb views... More...

      Our rating:
      4
      User rating:
      4
      Price:
      4
    3. Estancia Huechahue - External View

      Estancia Huechahue

      A family-owned estancia in Northern Patagonia, Estancia Huechahue is set in 15,000-acres of land in the foothills of the Andes. Offering a genuine insight into life on a working cattle farm and all the challenges that come with it, it has excellent riding and access to some of the best fly-fishing... More...

      Our rating:
      5
      User rating:
      5
      Price:
      4
    4. Estancia Peuma Hue - Lakeside

      Estancia Peuma Hue

      Set at the end of the Gutierrez Lake, around 30 minutes drive from Bariloche, Estancia Peuma Hue is an idyllic getaway. The series of buildings and cabins that make up this private and secluded enclave are all built from local wood and have superb views out onto the lake beyond, providing a warm... More...

      Our rating:
      4
      User rating:
      4
      Price:
      5
    5. Hosteria La Casa de Eugenia - Gardens

      Hosteria La Casa de Eugenia

      As far as hosterias (lodges) go, this little property ticks most boxes with a high boutique appeal. A former National parks administration office built in 1927 and one of the first in town, the house is listed as a national heritage building and has been running as a B&B since 1997. The lodge... More...

      Our rating:
      5
      User rating:
      4
      Price:
      3