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 recommended top hotels and lodges for Bariloche and the Lake District:

    1. Las Balsas Gourmet Hotel & Spa

      Las Balsas Gourmet Hotel & Spa

      Las Balsas Gourmet Hotel & Spa, a member of the elite Relais & Chateau Hotels, really is a treat! While it looks very much like it should have been a family home, it was, in fact designed always as a hotel. I guess this fact gives an idea as to what to expect…a home from home. Set... More...

      Our rating:
      5
      User rating:
      5
      Price:
      4
    2. Llao Llao Resort and Spa - Lake view

      Llao Llao Resort and Spa

      The legend that is Llao Llao Resort and Spa is located on its own peninsular about 30 mins from the centre of town, surrounded by stunning national park and its own international golf course. To try and write a succinct summary of all that the hotel offers is not going to be possible in this short... More...

      Our rating:
      5
      User rating:
      4
      Price:
      5
    3. 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
    4. Luma Casa de Montana - External view

      Luma Casa de Montaña

      An eight-suite hotel just outside of Villa la Angostura, Luma is a family-run lakeside retreat in Argentina’s Lake District. With big airy suites looking out over the lake, homemade food and a menu that changes daily, Luma is a home from home and a tranquil base from which to explore the beautiful... More...

      Our rating:
      4
      User rating:
      4
      Price:
      4
    5. Peninsula Petit - Aerial View

      Peninsula Petit

      A haven of tranquillity and warm hospitality on the banks of Lago Nahuel Huapi, Peninsula Petit is a consistent favourite for us in the Lake District and for good reason! Nestled into the hillside on a tranquil peninsula between Bariloche and Llao Llao and less than an hour’s drive from the... More...

      Our rating:
      4
      User rating:
      4
      Price:
      2