Day walks around Bariloche

The scenery around Bariloche in Argentina’s lake district is more than just picturesque. It’s mind-blowing. The original German and Swiss settlers were attracted by the verdant forest-green mountains, cobalt blue lakes and ice-frosted mountains which perhaps reminded them of home. Wherever you turn, there are astonishing views: valleys pitted with woodland-fringed, on a clear day reflecting a translucent sky.

The best way to appreciate this natural glory is on foot. This is a walking-friendly region, and trails are manifold. From your base in Bariloche or its environs there are a number of guided walks, none too challenging; some follow a ridge, while others – such as the partial ascent of Cerro Catedral involve a bit of a climb but your efforts are well rewarded by the sweeping panoramas from the top, and funicular railways and ski-lifts can shoulder some of the burden. Ancient Patagonian beech and cypress forests are animated by the sight and calls of an abundance of birds as varied as the woodpecker, ibis, goose and hummingbird.