Bariloche, Argentina – Land of Chocolate and Beer

Variously touted as the Aspen/Jackson Hole/Whistler of South America, the scenic town of Bariloche is the kind of place you never forget. Surrounded by jagged, snow-capped mountains, blanketed in giant pine forests and sitting on the edge of massive Lake Nahuel Huapi, Bariloche’s natural draws are instantly obvious—the place is absolutely stunning. Bariloche is many a traveller’s first taste of Patagonia, and it certainly makes an impression.

One thing that comes as a surprise to many is the region’s long history of European influence, particularly German. The town square looks more like a scene out of the Alps than Latin America, with wooden buildings that wouldn’t be out of place in a Swiss village, while the town’s gastronomic claims to fame are…wait for it…chocolate, beer and fondue. Doesn’t seem very Latino, but how can you not like that?

Although Bariloche is an all-year tourist destination, this is primarily a ski town, and in winter (summer in North America) the place cranks up with thousands of tourists from Brazil, Chile and farther afield, as countless restaurants, chalets and hotels swell with seasonal visitors and staff. Off-season the nightlife may be more subdued and the eating options fewer (many places near the ski hills are only open a few months a year), but in the town itself there is still plenty going on. In coming entries I’ll list off some of my favourites. And no surprise—eating and drinking feature prominently!

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