A Non-Skier's Guide to Bariloche in Winter

Not everyone on a ski trip actually skis — and that's completely fine. Bariloche is one of those rare ski towns where the non-skiing partner, parent, or friend has just as much to do as the person on the mountain. In fact, some of our guests come back specifically for the town and never touch the slopes.

If you're joining someone on their ski trip to Patagonia but plan to stay off the snow, here's how to spend your days.

Chocolate, Chocolate, and More Chocolate

Bariloche is the chocolate capital of Argentina — and arguably South America. The main street, Calle Mitre, is lined with artisan chocolate shops: Rapa Nui, Mamuschka, Del Turista, and dozens more. A morning spent tasting your way through the shops is genuinely one of the best food experiences in the country. Most shops offer free samples, and the hot chocolate is thick, rich, and nothing like what you get at home.

For something more structured, several chocolatiers offer factory tours where you can watch the process from cacao to finished truffle.

Lake and Forest Walks

The scenery around Bariloche is stunning in winter. Snow-dusted peaks ring the lakes, the native lenga and coihue forests are quiet and atmospheric, and the air is impossibly clean. Easy walks include the Circuito Chico (a 60 km scenic loop by car with several viewpoint stops), the path around Lago Gutierrez, and the short trails inside Parque Municipal Llao Llao.

For something more ambitious, the hike to Refugio Frey (about 4 hours each way) is doable in winter with proper boots and layers, though check conditions locally first. The frozen lake at the base of the granite spires is spectacular.

Spa and Thermal Baths

Several hotels in the area offer day-access spa facilities. The Llao Llao Resort has one of the most beautiful spa settings in the country — floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lake. Closer to town, there are smaller day spas offering massages, thermal pools, and traditional treatments. If you're willing to make the drive, the thermal baths at Caviahue are fed by volcanic hot springs.

Craft Beer and Wine

Bariloche has developed a serious craft beer scene over the past decade. Breweries like Berlina, Manush, Wesley, and Blest are scattered around the area, many with taprooms that serve food alongside flights of Patagonian ales, stouts, and lagers. A self-guided brewery crawl is a perfect afternoon activity.

For wine lovers, Bariloche isn't Mendoza — but several restaurants stock excellent Patagonian wines, and wine bars in the town centre offer tastings of regional Pinot Noir, Merlot, and the occasional Malbec from nearby Alto Valle vineyards.

Food Worth Travelling For

Lunch and dinner in Bariloche are highlights of any trip. The asado culture is strong — wood-fired grills serving slow-cooked lamb, beef ribs, and chorizo are everywhere. Beyond the grill, look for wild boar ragout, smoked trout from the lakes, handmade pasta (the Italian heritage runs deep), and fondue in cosy mountain restaurants.

For a full rundown of where to eat, see our eat and drink guide.

Day Trips

If you have a car or book a transfer, several excellent day trips are within reach. Victoria Island and the Arrayanes Forest (accessed by boat from Puerto Panuelo) offer a magical walk through a forest of cinnamon-barked myrtle trees. The drive to Villa La Angostura along the lake is gorgeous, and the tiny town has excellent restaurants and shops. San Martin de los Andes is worth a full day if you take the scenic Route 40.

Shopping and Town Life

Bariloche's downtown is walkable and charming. Beyond the chocolate shops, you'll find outdoor gear stores, wool and leather goods, local ceramics, and bookshops. The Feria Artesanal (artisan market) near the Civic Centre sells handmade crafts, knitted goods, and jams from local producers.

The town itself has a distinctly European feel — stone-and-timber buildings, peaked roofs, and a civic centre designed by architect Alejandro Bustillo that looks like it belongs in the Swiss Alps. Read more about Bariloche's alpine heritage.

Joining the Skier for a Mountain Day

Even if you don't ski, it's worth taking the cable car at Cerro Catedral at least once. The Cablecarril Lynch takes you to 1,800 metres where there's a restaurant with panoramic views. You can have lunch on the mountain, watch the skiers come down, and take in a landscape that stretches from lake to volcano. It's one of the best viewpoints in Patagonia.

Let Us Help You Plan

We design trips for the whole group — not just the skiers. Whether you need restaurant recommendations, spa bookings, guided excursions, or a detailed day-by-day plan for your non-skiing days, we handle it all — see our custom experiences for how we tailor trips. Tell us about your trip and we'll make it work for everyone.

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Short on time? Watch the quick version on YouTube Shorts

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Short on time? Watch the quick version on YouTube Shorts