Summer Magic in Bariloche: Patagonia's Stunning Lake District

• Horseback Riding at Carol Jones’ Ranch: Experience the stunning Patagonian steppe with a ride at Carol's ranch. You can opt for a river-side picnic lunch, and Carol has a wonderful selection of horses for all skill levels. I don’t think you can do better than Carol’s Ranch for a true Patagonian experience, which is why this one is at the top of the list. For more information, visit Carol's website.

• River Rafting on the Manso River: Experience family-friendly rafting on the stunning Manso River. Glide through crystal-clear waters surrounded by breathtaking Patagonian landscapes. The gentle rapids offer a perfect balance of excitement and tranquility, making it an ideal choice for adventurers of all ages. This is one of Bariloche’s most beautiful rivers.

• Hiking: Bariloche is a hiker's paradise in the summer! Trek to Cerro Campanario for spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. It's an easy thirty-minute hike and an ideal spot for taking in the expansive Patagonian landscape. Cerro Lopez offers a chance to see majestic condors soaring overhead while you hike through stunning scenery. Finally, venture to Refugio Frey, where the longer trail rewards you with the raw beauty of Patagonia, including its rugged peaks and serene lakes.

• World-Class Kite-Surfing and Windsurfing: Experience the exhilaration of kite-surfing and windsurfing on Nahuel Huapi Lake. A world-class destination renowned for its vast, glacial waters and ideal wind conditions. Whether you’re experienced or just starting out, lessons are available to help you master the sports. These are thrilling ways to connect with the stunning natural beauty of Patagonia!

• Kayaking: Paddle through the crystal-clear waters of Bariloche's massive Nahuel Huapi Lake with guided kayaking tours that showcase the region’s stunning scenery. Explore hidden coves and even historical sites, like homes used by Nazis who fled Germany. Or just rent a kayak and go for a paddle on your own. The clarity of the water offers an incredible view of the world beneath the lake.

• Sailing to Victoria Island: Rent a sailboat or join a guided tour to explore Victoria Island, renowned for its tranquil natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Enjoy lush forests, serene lakes, and captivating mountain views as you sail around this peaceful island. It’s the perfect escape into nature, offering a serene environment and scenery that will leave you refreshed and inspired.

• Fly Fishing in the Manso River and Traful River: Experience world-class fly fishing in the pristine waters of the Manso River and Traful River. Both are renowned for their abundant trout and stunning natural surroundings. Expert local guides are available to provide insights and techniques, ensuring an unforgettable fishing experience.

• Explore Downtown Bariloche: When you want a break from outdoor adventures, wander through the charming downtown area, known for its Swiss-style architecture and lively atmosphere. Make sure you visit Rapa Nui, a favorite local spot known for its delicious handmade chocolates and gelato. It’s an ideal place to treat yourself in the heart of Bariloche!

Day Trips:

• Seven Lakes Drive: Set out on the leisurely Seven Lakes Drive, a stunning route that starts in Bariloche and stretches for about 100 kilometers (62 miles) to San Martín de los Andes. This scenic drive takes you past seven breathtaking glacial lakes, each with its own unique charm. Along the way, you'll find plenty of spots to stop and soak in the views or enjoy a picnic by the lake. The drive ends in San Martín de los Andes, and I highly recommend spending a few nights here. It’s a perfect way to extend your Patagonian adventure and enjoy everything this charming area has to offer.

• Explore El Bolsón and Its Labyrinth: Just a short drive from Bariloche, El Bolsón is a charming town with a laid-back, almost hippie vibe and stunning scenery. Known for its thriving artisan community and local markets overflowing with handmade crafts and organic goods, it’s a wonderful stop on your Patagonian adventure. Definitely don’t miss the El Bolsón Labyrinth! It's a fantastic place for the whole family, combining a playful maze experience with stunning mountain views.

Steak Restaurants

• Tony’s Restaurante: This is my family’s absolute favorite place for a succulent steak in Bariloche! The meat quality is exceptional, and is expertly cooked over an open grill to deliver rich, smoky flavors and tender texture. The restaurant’s casual ambiance, attentive service, and reputation for consistently delivering top-notch steaks make it a standout choice for steak lovers in Bariloche. Tony will probably come out and chat with you!

• El Boliche de Alberto: Another phenomenal place for steak in Bariloche. El Boliche is also known for using high-quality cuts of meat, excellent preparation, and authentic Argentine flavors. It has a casual, rustic vibe and the emphasis is on delivering traditional Argentine barbecue in an unpretentious setting.

Breweries

• Patagonia Brewery: Patagonia Brewery is a wonderful place for visitors due to its exceptional craft beers and stunning setting. This is where locals go when they want to enjoy beer and food with a view! It combination of delicious, locally brewed beers, good food, and jaw-dropping vistas is hard to beat. Patagonia Brewery’s standout beer is Patagonia Amber Lager, which is known for its smooth flavor, rich amber color, and caramel notes. Reservations are highly recommended to ensure a spot, and can be easily made online through their official website. If you’re going for dinner, make sure you get there early enough to enjoy the view!

• Cervecería Gilbert: If you enjoy craft beer, Cervecería Gilbert in Bariloche is another good option. They offer a range of innovative brews, and it’s a perfect place to relax after a day of skiing. Their food menu features delicious options like gourmet burgers, flavorful pizzas, and tasty tapas that pair perfectly with their beers. It’s a great spot to hang out with friends and savor excellent beer and satisfying food. Making a reservation is a good idea, but you can often get a table without one.

• Cervecería Manush: For families with children, Manush is a really nice option. It’s super family-friendly with a great outdoor play area where the little ones can run around while you keep an eye on them from the nearby tables. With its great location, tasty food, and fun setup, it's perfect for families looking to relax and enjoy a good time together. And the best part? Locals just bundle up and go no matter the season; you can, too! Making a reservation in advance can be a good idea, but you can often show up without one and still get a table.

Fine Dining

• Restaurant Llao Llao: Located in the iconic Llao Llao Hotel, it provides a refined dining experience amid the Patagonian landscape. The menu features local specialties, including tender lamb, beef, and trout, alongside a selection of international dishes. Emphasizing seasonal ingredients, the restaurant crafts dishes that highlight fresh, regional produce. Guests can also enjoy a variety of elegant desserts and a curated wine list of local and international selections. With its luxurious setting and gourmet offerings, Restaurant Llao Llao is perfect for a memorable and sophisticated meal. Reservations are recommended.

• Mimi’s Restaurante: Mimi’s is a particularly delightful choice for a romantic date in Bariloche. Thanks to its cozy, elegant atmosphere. The restaurant offers a refined menu with a range of delicious Argentine dishes and fine wines, creating a perfect setting for an intimate evening. Reservations are advised. Very recommended for a special night out!

• El Regional: Known for its elegant ambiance and gourmet Argentine cuisine, El Regional offers a refined dining experience with tasty local specialties.

• La Costa del Pueblo: This restaurant combines an elegant atmosphere with high-quality, beautifully presented dishes. It’s a great spot for a special occasion, offering everything from fine steaks to seafood.

• Kandahar: For non-Argentine fine dining in Bariloche, Kandahar stands out. It offers a sophisticated menu that blends international cuisine with local ingredients, featuring dishes that cater to diverse tastes. The restaurant’s upscale setting and inventive approach to dining. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a refined dining experience that goes beyond traditional Argentine fare.

Brunch

• Quiven: Quiven is a fabulous little restaurant in Bariloche, ideally situated overlooking the Nahuel Huapi Lake. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. It has a chic and relaxed atmosphere, and stands out with its set brunch, which includes a selection of gourmet dishes complemented by a glass of champagne. This luxurious brunch experience is perfect for a special outing, allowing you to savor high-quality food while enjoying the stunning natural scenery. Super recommended!

Outdoor dining

• Cirse: Cirse in Bariloche offers a laid-back dining experience with its outdoor food-truck-style setup right on the lake. Set in a charming, open-air environment, it serves a variety of gourmet dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. It's a local favorite, with plenty of space for kids to run around while parents enjoy a relaxed meal with stunning lake views and the fresh mountain air. Sometimes, you might even catch some live music, adding to the fun and lively atmosphere.