Bariloche - The Resort

Located in the heart of Argentina's Patagonia peak district, Bariloche [Ba-ri-loch-ay] is a rugged city full of south Latin hospitality and is the gateway to the ski area Gran Catedral.

Founded in 1903 by Swiss and German immigrants it is a cheerful city still influenced by Swiss-German culture. Its impressive geographical features, rugged plains of the Patagonia Steppe to the east, the snowy peaks of the Andes to the west and the glistening Nahuel Huapi [nah-well wah-pee] Lake in front will leave you in no doubt that you're staying in a place ripe for adventure.

Bariloche has all the conveniences you'd expect to find in a large town. Shops, restaurants and banks and a cinema are all easily accessible on the main street. Bariloche is also a chocolate-lovers heaven, influenced by the Swiss settlers and there are numerous chocolate shops offering tasty little morsels of artisan chocolate to keep your energy levels up.

The night life doesn't kick off until around midnight and carries on until the early hours of the morning for Bariloche's night clubs. There are plenty of pubs though that you can refresh yourself in after returning from Gran Catedral.