Bariloche is beautifully set on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi. The town is actually inside the Nahuel Huapi National Park, which contains some of Argentina’s most dramatic scenery. The national park contains glaciers, rivers, mountains and forests and is perfect for hiking or cycling, or if you prefer to take things at a more relaxed pace, you can take the lifts up the mountains or a boat ride on the lakes. You can also try more adventurous activities, including rafting and horse riding. In winter, Bariloche is the main ski resort in Argentina, and is very popular with Brazilians. The area is home to much wildlife, including deer, otter and guanacos, as well as much birdlife.

The town itself has an alpine feel, which many chalet-type buildings. Tourism is the town’s main activity and there are many hotels, restaurants and shops. The chocolate here is particularly famous.

You can take a spectacular full-day crossing to or from Chile, taking boats across Lago Nahuel Huapi, Lago Frias and Lago Todos los Santos, and coaches through the mountains.