San Carlos de Bariloche

I have travelled 1,000 miles south to San Carlos de Bariloche, which is situated in the foothills of the Andes on the southern shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi.  This area is know as Argentina’s Lake District, a region of exceptional beauty. It forms part of Patagonia and runs for around 250 miles alongside the Andes.

Snow-capped Andes

Hosteria La Surena (my hotel)

It was very cold (-1^oC ) when I arrived, but it soon warms up once the sun comes out, except for the biting cold wind.  A contrast to Buenos Aires, much quieter and more peaceful, with amazing views of the snow-capped Andes across the lake. Luckily I am here in low season, between the winter ski season and the trekking summer season.

The area was originally inhabited by the Mapuche people.  The name Bariloche comes from the Mapudungun word Vuriloche meaning "people from behind the mountain" (vuri = behind, che = people).  The first Europeans were of German, Italian and Swiss origin which explains the Alpine-style wooden architecture and the amazing chocolates.

Centro civico

Wooden statues

Wooden Statues 

conifers

Monkey Puzzle Tree (Araucaria araucana)

A few of the many chocolates

Barioloche is a place for young people, there were many groups of teenagers walking round dressed in matching jackets. Nearby are the best ski resorts in Argentina, Cerro Catedral and Cerro Chapelco. 

Traditionally, teenagers come here for their graduation trips.  This weekend, groups of young people were taking part in a  Feria de Artesanos (craft fair).  They were being creative making their own stands and food.

Final walk along the lakeside enjoying the views and sound of the waves