Your Insider’s Guide to Bariloche: Summer Skiing at South America’s Biggest Ski Resort
Having spent two years in this enchanting corner of Patagonia, I can confidently say it's one of the most stunning ski destinations you'll ever encounter!
If you are a skier from the Northern Hemisphere dreaming of summer slopes, look no further than majestic Argentine Patagonia, with its Cerro Catedral Ski Resort. Situated in the picturesque town of Bariloche, Cerro Catedral is the largest ski resort in South America. It offers 3,000 acres of varied terrain with epic views of the snow-capped Andes, pristine glacial lakes and the untamed Patagonian wilderness.
To complete your Patagonian adventure, consider a stay at the iconic Llao Llao Hotel. This historic gem has welcomed notable guests such as former US President Barack Obama, actors Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones and filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola.
Whether you’re carving down the slopes, indulging in a hearty steak or soaking in the breathtaking views, Bariloche offers an amazing experience for winter travelers!
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Things to do in Bariloche
Skiing is the top winter activity in Bariloche due to its diverse terrain and stunning natural beauty. It features the largest ski resort in South America with extensive slopes and panoramic views. The combination of challenging runs, breathtaking landscapes and high-quality facilities make it a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The best ski conditions are usually from July to September.
Terrain and Runs: Cerro Catedral offers a diverse range of terrain with over 3,000 acres of skiing. Including 35% intermediate and 48% advanced and expert trails. Notable runs like La Catedral and Tres Picos provide exhilarating experiences with spectacular views of the Andes.
Lift System: Cerro Catedral has an extensive system with 39 lifts. This includes high-speed chairs, gondolas and surface lifts, ensuring efficient access to all areas of the mountain. The modern infrastructure minimizes wait times and provides seamless transport across the diverse terrain, enhancing your skiing experience.
Snow Conditions: Cerro Catedral enjoys an impressive average snow depth of around 6 to 12 feet throughout the winter season. The snow is typically light and powdery, thanks to the region's dry climate. It creates excellent skiing conditions and allows for a variety of snow sports.
Backcountry Skiing: Cerro Catedral offers exceptional backcountry skiing opportunities. The surrounding Patagonian wilderness features untracked powder, challenging terrain and breathtaking vistas, making it a paradise for experienced skiers. Guided tours are available to ensure safety and provide insights into the best routes and conditions.
Access and Transportation: Cerro Catedral is easily accessible from Bariloche, with a 30-minute drive connecting the town to the resort. Shuttle services and car rentals are readily available for a convenient commute to the slopes. Car rental is a good idea for most travelers, as it allows you easy access to the entire Bariloche area.
Facilities and Services: Cerro Catedral provides comprehensive services, including equipment rentals, ski schools with professional instructors and guided tours for all skill levels. At the base of the mountain, you'll find a range of amenities, including cozy lodges, charming cafes and convenient shops to enhance your skiing experience.
Après-Ski: After a day on the slopes, the village at the base of Cerro Catedral comes alive with après-ski options. Enjoy a range of activities from relaxing in upscale bars and restaurants to unwinding in hot tubs and spa facilities, while soaking in the stunning mountain views and socializing with fellow skiers.
Places to eat & drink in Bariloche, Argentina
Steak restaurants:
Tony’s Restaurante: This is my family’s absolute favorite place for a succulent steak in Bariloche! The meat quality is exceptional, and is expertly cooked over an open grill to deliver rich, smoky flavors and tender texture. The restaurant’s casual ambiance, attentive service and reputation for consistently delivering top-notch steaks make it a standout choice for steak lovers in Bariloche. Tony will probably come out and chat with you!
El Boliche de Alberto: Another phenomenal place for steak in Bariloche, El Boliche. Also known for using high-quality cuts of meat, excellent preparation and authentic Argentine flavors. It has a casual, rustic vibe and the emphasis is on delivering traditional Argentine barbecue in an unpretentious setting.
Breweries:
Patagonia Brewery: Patagonia Brewery is a wonderful place for visitors due to its exceptional craft beers and stunning setting. This is where locals go when they want to enjoy beer and food with a view! It combination of delicious, locally brewed beers, good food and jaw-dropping vistas is hard to beat. Patagonia Brewery’s standout beer is Patagonia Amber Lager, which is known for its smooth flavor, rich amber color and caramel notes. Reservations are highly recommended to ensure a spot, and can be easily made online through their official website. If you’re going for dinner, make sure you get there early enough to enjoy the view!
Cervecería Gilbert: If you enjoy craft beer, Cervecería Gilbert in Bariloche is another good option. They offer a range of innovative brews, and it’s a perfect place to relax after a day of skiing. Their food menu features delicious options like gourmet burgers, flavorful pizzas and tasty tapas that pair perfectly with their beers. It’s a great spot to hang out with friends and savor excellent beer and satisfying food. Making a reservation is a good idea, but you can often get a table without one.
Cervecería Manush: For families with children, Manush is a really nice option. It’s super family-friendly with a great outdoor play area where the little ones can run around while you keep an eye on them from the nearby tables. With its great location, tasty food and fun setup, it's perfect for families looking to relax and enjoy a good time together. And the best part? Locals just bundle up and go no matter the season — you can, too! Making a reservation in advance can be a good idea, but you can often show up without one and still get a table.
Fine dining:
Restaurant Llao Llao: Located in the iconic Llao Llao Hotel, it provides a refined dining experience amid the Patagonian landscape. The menu features local specialties, including tender lamb, beef and trout, alongside a selection of international dishes. Emphasizing seasonal ingredients, the restaurant crafts dishes that highlight fresh, regional produce. Guests can also enjoy a variety of elegant desserts and a curated wine list of local and international selections. With its luxurious setting and gourmet offerings, Restaurant Llao Llao is perfect for a memorable and sophisticated meal. Reservations are recommended.
Mimi’s Restaurante: Mimi’s is a particularly delightful choice for a romantic date in Bariloche, thanks to its cozy, elegant atmosphere. The restaurant offers a refined menu with a range of delicious Argentine dishes and fine wines, creating a perfect setting for an intimate evening. Reservations are advised. Very recommended for a special night out!
El Regional: Known for its elegant ambiance and gourmet Argentine cuisine. El Regional offers a refined dining experience with tasty local specialties.
La Costa del Pueblo: This restaurant combines an elegant atmosphere with high-quality, beautifully presented dishes. It’s a great spot for a special occasion, offering everything from fine steaks to seafood.
Kandahar: For non-Argentine fine dining in Bariloche, Kandahar stands out. It offers a sophisticated menu that blends international cuisine with local ingredients, featuring dishes that cater to diverse tastes. The restaurant’s upscale setting and inventive approach to dining make it an excellent choice for those looking for a refined dining experience that goes beyond traditional Argentine fare.
Brunch:
Quiven: Quiven is a fabulous little restaurant in Bariloche overlooking the Nahuel Huapi Lake. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. It has a chic and relaxed atmosphere, and stands out with its set brunch offering. It includes a selection of gourmet dishes complemented by a glass of champagne. This luxurious brunch experience is perfect for a special outing, allowing you to savor high-quality food while enjoying the stunning natural scenery. Super recommended!
