San Carlos de Bariloche
San Carlos de Bariloche
San Carlos de Bariloche, often just called Bariloche, is a breathtaking mountain town in Argentina's Patagonia region. Sitting on the shores of the enormous Nahuel Huapi Lake and surrounded by the Andes Mountains, it's often compared to Alpine towns in Switzerland, which makes sense given its strong European influences.
The town was founded in 1902, but the area was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples before German and Austrian immigrants settled here in the early 20th century. Their influence is still visible today in the charming Alpine-style architecture and the town's famous chocolate shops that line the main street. Speaking of chocolate, Bariloche is Argentina's chocolate capital, with dozens of artisanal chocolate makers creating everything from traditional bars to elaborate sculptures.
Bariloche is most famous as a winter destination when the nearby Cerro Catedral ski resort comes alive, but it's equally impressive during summer when hiking trails open up and the azure lakes sparkle under the sun. The town sits within Nahuel Huapi National Park, Argentina's oldest national park, established in 1934, which covers over 7,000 square kilometers of mountains, forests, and lakes.
The region's microbrewery scene has exploded in recent years, with craft beer bars popping up throughout town serving locally-made brews that perfectly complement the area's hearty mountain cuisine. Don't miss trying a local parrilla (Argentine barbecue) or some fondue in one of the cozy restaurants – a delicious reminder of the town's unique cultural fusion.
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Things to do in San Carlos de Bariloche
Top things to do in San Carlos de Bariloche by www.thecrazytourist.com
Where to stay in San Carlos de Bariloche
Best hotels in San Carlos de Bariloche:
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Hotel Cottbus (budget hotel)
Hotel Cottbus is conveniently located just a short walk from the city center of San Carlos de Bariloche, making it a great base for exploring the area. The rooms offer comfort with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, ensuring you can stay connected during your stay.
Guests particularly enjoy the breakfast, which is served each morning in the cozy breakfast room. For added relaxation, there's a games room to unwind in after a day of sightseeing. The hotel also provides computer access for those needing to check emails or get some work done.
The friendly and helpful staff at Hotel Cottbus are often highlighted by guests. While it’s not a luxury hotel, it provides excellent value for a comfortable stay in a prime location, making it a great choice for visitors looking to explore Bariloche and its stunning surroundings.
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NH Bariloche Edelweiss (luxury hotel)
NH Bariloche Edelweiss is centrally located in San Carlos de Bariloche, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. Just steps from the civic center and main street, guests enjoy easy access to local attractions, as well as stunning views of Lake Nahuel Huapi and the surrounding mountains from spacious rooms.
The hotel offers great amenities, including an indoor pool and a spa for unwinding after a day of adventure. Guests can enjoy Argentine cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and the breakfast spread provides plenty of options to start the day.
For those looking to explore further, the hotel's location also makes it easy to walk around the area, with the added convenience of ski storage and trips to nearby Catedral ski resort. The friendly staff and modern facilities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Bariloche.
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Hampton By Hilton Bariloche (medium range hotel)
Hampton By Hilton Bariloche offers a great spot to enjoy San Carlos de Bariloche. The hotel sits just steps from the city center, but on a quiet street with awesome lake views. Rooms are modern, spacious and super clean - definitely worth splurging for a lake view if you can.
The staff get lots of praise for being friendly and helpful. Breakfast gets good reviews too, with a nice variety of options to fuel up before exploring. The location is within walking distance of everything in town.
While not the cheapest option, guests say it's good value compared to other hotels in the area. The comfy beds, panoramic elevators, and overall cleanliness and modern feel make for a very pleasant stay. It's a solid choice if you want reliable comfort and service in a prime Bariloche location.
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Best hostels in San Carlos de Bariloche:
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Las Viñas Hostel Boutique (boutique hostel)
Las Viñas Hostel Boutique in San Carlos de Bariloche is a cozy little place that feels just like home. The staff are super friendly and always up for cooking dinner together or giving tips on the best local spots. The hostel has a chill garden area perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Inside, the rooms are clean and comfy with nice touches like privacy curtains on the beds. There's a shared kitchen if you want to cook your own meals, plus a living room for hanging out. The location is great too, it's close to bus stops so you can easily get around town or head out for hikes.
Las Viñas has a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to meet other travelers. Whether you're looking to socialize or just have a quiet place to crash, this hostel hits the spot. The value for money is solid and it's a good base for checking out everything Bariloche has to offer.
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Bariloche Hostel (hostel)
Bariloche Hostel is conveniently located in the center of San Carlos de Bariloche, offering simple but comfortable rooms with heating and private bathrooms. Many parts of the hostel offer stunning views of Nahuel Huapi Lake, making it a peaceful place to stay.
The hostel's common areas, including a shared lounge and a kitchen, are perfect for meeting fellow travelers or preparing your own meals. The friendly staff provides helpful recommendations for local activities, whether you’re into skiing, hiking, or sightseeing.
The hostel's prime location makes it easy to explore the town's shops and restaurants. Plus, the surrounding natural beauty of mountains and lakes is just a short trip away, providing an ideal base for budget travelers looking to experience the best of Patagonia.