Hidden Gems: Circuito Chico

Why it's hidden: It's slightly off the main Circuito Chico loop and requires a small detour into the residential area of Villa Los Coihues, causing most tourists to overlook it in favor of more accessible lakeside spots.

How to find it: From Bariloche, take Ruta 40 South. Before reaching the start of the main Circuito Chico, turn right onto RP 82 towards Villa Los Coihues. Follow signs for the village, then look for a dirt road heading down towards the lake, near the end of the village. Informal roadside parking is available. The roads to the village are paved, then turn to well-maintained gravel. A car is essential.

Best time: Late morning or early afternoon during summer for swimming, or at sunset for spectacular photography.

Why it's hidden: It's a small, unmarked pull-off that's easily missed, and its name often causes confusion with other, more famous 'Lago Escondido' locations, deterring curious visitors.

How to find it: Drive Circuito Chico past Hotel Llao Llao and the main entrance to Villa Tacul. Approximately 1-2 km after the main Tacul entrance, look for a small, unmarked dirt pull-off on the right side of the road, just large enough for a few cars. Park here and follow the narrow, unmaintained path through the forest for about 10-15 minutes. The main road is paved; the pull-off is gravel. A car is required.

Best time: Morning for serene reflections, or late afternoon for soft, diffused light through the trees.

Why it's hidden: This spot is an unmarked, subtle pull-off that people often drive past quickly, heading for the more advertised viewpoints. It lacks signage or formal parking.

How to find it: On Circuito Chico, after passing the entrance to Hotel Llao Llao, keep a keen eye out for a small, unpaved lay-by on your left. It's located on a gentle curve, so approach cautiously. There's just enough space for 2-3 cars. The view opens up almost immediately from the roadside. The road is paved. You absolutely need a car to reach this point.

Best time: Anytime on a clear day, but particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset for dramatic light.

Why it's hidden: It requires a short, slightly rugged walk off the main road and isn't prominently signposted or featured on tourist maps, making it a true local secret.

How to find it: On Circuito Chico, after passing Lago Moreno Oeste and heading towards Colonia Suiza, look for a very small dirt road or entrance on your right, often subtly marked by a small, weathered wooden sign or a roadside shrine. This is typically before the main Colonia Suiza entrance. Park carefully on the wide shoulder of the paved road. The trail is about a 10-15 minute walk through temperate forest. A car is necessary to reach the trailhead.

Best time: Spring for its fuller flow after snowmelt, or summer for a pleasant forest walk.

Why it's hidden: Situated deep within the residential area of Villa Los Coihues, it's not directly on the main Circuito Chico route and primarily caters to a local clientele, making it an overlooked culinary gem for tourists.

How to find it: Take the turn-off for Villa Los Coihues from Ruta 40 (before the Circuito Chico proper begins). Drive into the village and inquire with locals for 'El Horno de Barro' or 'Cordero al Palo'. It’s typically a humble, family-run establishment. Ample street parking is available. Roads are mostly paved to the village, then gravel. A car is essential for access.

Best time: Lunch or dinner, especially on weekends. Reservations are highly recommended if possible, as it's a popular local spot.

Why it's hidden: It requires a short, somewhat unmarked hike through a quiet area and is not well-signed from the main road, making it challenging for casual visitors to discover.

How to find it: Drive Circuito Chico past the Hotel Llao Llao area. Look for a small dirt road branching off to the left (towards the lake) before you reach Bahía López. There may be a very subtle sign for 'Playa del Toro' or just a small, unofficial parking area. Park there and follow the footpath down to the lake (approximately 10-15 minutes walk). The path can be uneven. The main road is paved until the turn-off, then gravel/dirt. A car is required.

Best time: Warm summer days for swimming and sunbathing, or quiet mornings for a peaceful natural experience.

Why it's hidden: This lesser-publicized walking path is near Colonia Suiza but distinct from its main tourist hubs. It requires specific local knowledge to find the subtle entrance.

How to find it: From Circuito Chico, head towards Colonia Suiza. Instead of entering the main fairgrounds, look for a small dirt road or informal parking area just before or after the main Colonia Suiza entrance. It's often close to local cabins or residential properties. The trail entrance will be subtle. Park roadside in designated areas. Roads are paved to Colonia Suiza, then gravel/dirt for local access. A car is needed.

Best time: Any time of year; the red bark is striking against any seasonal backdrop, from snow to green foliage.