Hiking Bariloche, Bariloche

There's no better way to get to the heart of Argentina's famous Lake District than on a mountain hike around Llao Llao Municipal Park. Located just a few kilometers northwest of Bariloche, this protected area is situated on the lakeshore of Nahuel Huapi and takes up a relatively small area (just 3,000 acres). In this park exists some stunning scenery as well as a network of well-maintained hiking paths. 

This day's excursion is a moderate 3.5-hour hike that follows old trails through Patagonian-Andean forest and covers many of the area's natural highlights. One of these, Cerro Llao Llao, is the largest mountain within the park, standing 1,025-meters (3,363-feet) high. It's possible to hike to the top for a reward of postcard-worthy views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Other points of interest include the sandy beaches of Villa Tacúl, the ancient Puente Romano (Roman Bridge), and the little-visited Hidden Lake. Along the way, there are stops at other vantage points that offer panoramic views of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Lake Moreno, Puerto Blest, the Brazo Tristeza fjord, Mount López and Mount Capilla.