Discover the Enchanting Real-Life Fairy Tale World in Bariloche

Nestled in the western foothills of the Andes Mountains, Bariloche is often referred to as the “Little Switzerland of South America.” This serene and picturesque town is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and shimmering lakes, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers. For those who wish to explore the area, renting a car for a self-driving tour is highly recommended.

There are two main routes to choose from: the small loop, which is relatively easy and offers breathtaking views, and the large loop, which takes you along the stunning Argentine National Route 40, particularly the scenic stretch leading to Villa La Angostura.

We opted to stay at El Refugio Ski & Summer Lodge, primarily to avoid the fatigue of daily back-and-forth travel to Bariloche. In winter, this lodge transforms into a ski paradise, but during the summer, it’s less appealing. While the rooms are comfortable and the lodge features a pool and spa, the surrounding scenery is somewhat limited, and there are few nearby amenities.

To our disappointment, the on-site restaurant was closed due to the Christmas season, leaving us with only a small supermarket for supplies. If, like us, you prefer not to make a round trip in one day and are visiting during the summer, I would recommend staying in Villa La Angostura instead.