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San Carlos de Bariloche was first stop on Grand South American tour. Sometimes described as "Little Switzerland" for architecture and overall alpine feel, it is also gateway to northern Patagonia - primary objective of my journey. City is situated at south side of Lago Nahual Huapi, Argentine Nacional Park. I dubbed it "Lake District" as there are many other lakes and bays sometimes reminiscent of Scandinavian fiords. It is a touristy place, but not in your face and I never felt gong show often associated with such places. Main street running through town center is Mitre, with many stores, restaurants and travel agencies. One thing Bariloche is quite famous for is chocolate; besides countless shops, there is also Chocolate Museum and even annual Chocolate Festival! Accommodation choices are plenty, from hostels to high-end resorts. For my 8 days stay I picked inexpensive AirBnB short distance above City Center and was quite happy with my choice.
City exploration is worthwhile, but can be done in a day. Scenic waterfront, Our Lady of Nahuel Huapi Cathedral and City Center square directly above the waterfront at end of Mitre are main things. For moving outside the city car rental is option, but I was able to fulfill my needs with inexpensive public transport. It is crowded by locals, as always the case in South America, but reliable. Payment is in form of SUBE card, which can be purchased everywhere in Argentina; I got mine at Buenos Aires airport. Card can be refilled in many convenience stores.
As always with my Travels outdoor exploration was the main Focus. There are many hiking trails nearby ranging from short few hour strolls to multi-day Alpine Hut trekking routes. Must short hike is Cerro Campanario, about 40min bus ride out of town. Nahuel Huapi Panorama from top observation deck is simply amazing. Best long day was Cerro Cathedral - Refugio Frey through hike; I also recommend Cerro Otto with Teleferico (Gondola). Bus leaves from City Center, but on return I simply hiked twisting access road back to the Town with in-your-face Aerial view of Lakefront most of the time. At the end I felt I just scratched the surface; I most regret not having time to visit Cerro Tronador; it would require overnight stay, but for adventure hiker it is a must. Should I go to Bariloche again, I'd stay at least 2 weeks; I don't exclude this still might happen at some point.
City exploration is worthwhile, but can be done in a day. Scenic waterfront, Our Lady of Nahuel Huapi Cathedral and City Center square directly above the waterfront at end of Mitre are main things. For moving outside the city car rental is option, but I was able to fulfill my needs with inexpensive public transport. It is crowded by locals, as always the case in South America, but reliable. Payment is in form of SUBE card, which can be purchased everywhere in Argentina; I got mine at Buenos Aires airport. Card can be refilled in many convenience stores.
As always with my Travels outdoor exploration was the main Focus. There are many hiking trails nearby ranging from short few hour strolls to multi-day Alpine Hut trekking routes. Must short hike is Cerro Campanario, about 40min bus ride out of town. Nahuel Huapi Panorama from top observation deck is simply amazing. Best long day was Cerro Cathedral - Refugio Frey through hike; I also recommend Cerro Otto with Teleferico (Gondola). Bus leaves from City Center, but on return I simply hiked twisting access road back to the Town with in-your-face Aerial view of Lakefront most of the time. At the end I felt I just scratched the surface; I most regret not having time to visit Cerro Tronador; it would require overnight stay, but for adventure hiker it is a must. Should I go to Bariloche again, I'd stay at least 2 weeks; I don't exclude this still might happen at some point.
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