The Lake District of Northern Patagonia is a rare find. Alternately deemed the Switzerland of the Americas and the Aspen of South America, visitors to the Bariloche area are always struck by a remarkable recognition – this is place you feel you’ve been to before, perhaps in your dreams.
With soaring mountain peaks, emerald lakes and rivers, and lush temperate rainforests where thousand-year old trees tower, the Lake District is certainly a wilderness full of possibility for adventure. But it is the style of the area that makes it so unique – quaint mountain chalets, five-star bistros, ateliers, and bustling handicraft markets make it a cultural delight as well. The Lake District is everything in one – like the customs of Tuscany in the mountains of Alaska.
Highlights:
- Bariloche, the Aspen of South America, with elegant inns, innovative restaurants and beautiful mountain scenery at every turn
- Waterfalls, touring volcanos, temperate rainforests and remote islands
- Quaint San Martin de los Andes and luxurious Villa la Angostura
- Your choice for activities ranging from golfing, fly-fishing, shopping, fine dining, rafting and hiking
- The markets of El Bolsón, a farming community renowned for its artisans
Itinerary:
- Day 1 - Arrival in Bariloche. After settling into our mountain-style inn, we’ll tour the city’s lively downtown. Evening dinner at a local parrilla.
- Day 2 - Today we will tour the highlights of the Bariloche area and Nahuel Huapi National Park, including the scenic Circuito Chico drive, the Cerro Catedral Ski Resort and the Campanario Sightseeing Lift.
- Day 3 - We head south of Bariloche to the Los Alerces Waterfall, Mascardi Lake and to Mt. Tronador, the majestic volcano that rises above all other peaks, with plenty of stops to enjoy the views and go for a swim. Lunch will be at an elegantly rustic tea house.
- Day 4 - You choose between the many activities this area offers including whitewater rafting, world-class golfing at one of the South America’s top courses, horseback riding, and fly-fishing. Others may choose a visit to Bariloche’s finest shops, gourmet food boutiques, artisan markets and museums.
- Day 5 – Second day to choose your own activity in Bariloche.
- Day 6 – Heading out by boat on scenic Nahuel Huapi Lake, we will visit the Victoria Island and the Arrayán Forest, the inspiration for Bambi. In the evening we’ll enjoy the cottage-like atmosphere at the resort village of Villa la Angostura.
- Day 7 - Travelling through national parks the entire day, we drive north on the Seven Lakes Route to the picturesque town of San Martín de los Andes, we’ll see waterfalls, enjoy short walks, and have an afternoon boat trip.
- Day 8 - Choose your own activity in San Martín, from fishing and golfing to paddling, sailing or relaxing at the beach.
- Day 9 - We return to Bariloche through the Patagonian Steppe route, crossing Cordoba Pass and visiting the moon-like rock formation at Valle Encantada, the Enchanted Valley.
- Day 10 - We journey south to El Bolsón, an agricultural hub where people still live off the land and artisans thrive. We’ll visit the weekly market for organic foods, homemade crafts and friendly spirit.
- Day 11 - The pristine lakes and forests of Los Alerces is home to the giant and ancient Alerce trees, some more than 3,000 years old. We’ll enjoy some short walks through the forest and return to Bariloche in the evening.
- Day 12 - Depart Bariloche.
* Extend your stay with a three-day tour of Buenos Aires or a trip to the vineyards of Mendoza. Combine your Lake District Retreat with our Southern Adventure!
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