7-Day Winter Ski Tour: Bariloche & Villa La Angostura

Welcome to San Carlos de Bariloche! Upon arrival at Bariloche Airport (BRC), proceed to pick up your pre-booked 4WD rental vehicle. Take time to familiarize yourself with the car, ensure it has winter tires, and locate the snow chains. Drive to your accommodation in Bariloche, check in, and then spend the afternoon exploring the charming city center. Stroll around the iconic Centro Cívico, indulge in the region's famous chocolate at one of the many artisanal shops, and enjoy your first taste of Patagonian cuisine.

Today is dedicated to hitting the slopes of Cerro Catedral Alta Patagonia, South America's largest ski resort. Drive your 4WD from Bariloche to the base of Cerro Catedral (approximately 20 km on Ruta Provincial 79), a journey that typically takes 30-40 minutes depending on snow conditions and traffic. Spend the entire day carving fresh powder or enjoying the vast network of groomed runs. The resort offers diverse terrain for all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging black diamonds and off-piste opportunities.

Enjoy another exhilarating morning on the slopes of Cerro Catedral. Take the opportunity to explore different sections of the mountain you might have missed on day two. In the afternoon, return to Bariloche and embark on the iconic Circuito Chico, a beautiful scenic drive along Ruta Provincial 77. This loop offers breathtaking views of lakes Nahuel Huapi and Moreno, lush forests, and the surrounding Andes. Stop at Punto Panorámico for postcard-perfect photos and consider a craft beer tasting at one of the microbreweries along the route.

Today, drive north along the picturesque Ruta Nacional 40 (part of the famous Seven Lakes Route) to the charming alpine village of Villa La Angostura. This scenic drive covers approximately 80 km and takes about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and then explore the tranquil town. Known for its log cabins, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants, Villa La Angostura offers a more intimate and serene atmosphere than Bariloche. Enjoy a leisurely evening preparing for your next ski adventure.

Experience the unique charm of Cerro Bayo, a boutique ski resort renowned for its stunning lake views and excellent tree skiing. The resort is just a short drive from Villa La Angostura. Spend the day enjoying its well-groomed slopes, often less crowded than Catedral, and soak in the panoramic vistas of Lake Nahuel Huapi from various points on the mountain. Cerro Bayo is particularly loved for its intimate atmosphere and family-friendly environment, but also offers challenging runs for advanced skiers, especially through the glades after a fresh snowfall.

Today, embrace the full beauty of the Seven Lakes Route (Ruta 40). If you wish, you can drive further north from Villa La Angostura to explore more lakes like Lago Espejo and Lago Correntoso, before turning back south. The complete route eventually leads to San Martín de los Andes, but for this itinerary, we recommend enjoying a leisurely exploration of the section around Villa La Angostura before returning to Bariloche. This allows for ample stops at viewpoints, short snowshoeing excursions if weather permits, or simply soaking in the pristine winter scenery. Enjoy a final Patagonian dinner in Bariloche.

Enjoy a final Patagonian breakfast in Bariloche. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping, perhaps picking up some more local chocolates or artisanal goods. Drive your 4WD rental car to Bariloche Airport (BRC), allowing ample time for the return process, including refueling if required. Drop off your vehicle and board your flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of your winter ski tour in Argentina's stunning Lake District.