CIRCUITO CHICO

What is commonly known as the Circuito Chico ("little circuit") is one of Bariloche's star excursions. The circuit consists of a tour of the Llao Llao peninsula. It's a very natural excursion, offering short, accessible walks through forests, lakes and mountains, which is obviously the region's favourite theme! Whether with an agency, your own vehicle or a bike (for hire on site), we recommend you start with a stop at Cerro Campanario (1,050 m). A chairlift provides access to the summit (open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.), and the view is always magnificent, with glimpses of the more distant mountains carpeted with groves and surrounded by the various twisting arms of Lake Nahuel Huapi. The panorama is enchanting, even mystical when the wind and clouds lift. Continue your journey with a stopover on the San Pedro peninsula, at the Regatta Club (km20). From here, you can visit a small cave and enjoy a viewpoint. If you want to linger a while on the deep waters of the Nahuel Huapi, you can hire a small boat and row to your heart's content in this majestic environment. For the rest of you, head for Puerto Pañuelo, where lake excursions to Victoria Island, the Arrayanes forest and Puerto Blest start. Just before embarking, don't hesitate to take a look at the region's most beautiful hotel, the Llao Llao (km23). You can also admire the San Eduardo chapel, a picturesque monument open to the public on Sundays only. Continuing on past Puerto Panuelo, you enter the Llao Llao peninsula. Here, a whole host of activities, walks and options are on offer, but it's also good to wander the paths and simply contemplate the landscape's relief. Consider passing through Villa Tacul (km30), and be sure to stop at the various viewpoints, all of which offer a new perspective on the beauty of the surroundings. At km33, you cross the Arroyo La Angostura bridge, drive a little further and then turn right: welcome to Bahia Lopez. Rock faces plunge into the bay's crystal-clear waters, fishermen meditate before nature's majestic backdrop, and some even take a dip to enjoy a moment of complete tranquillity. The return journey takes us through Colonia Suiza, a small tourist town founded by French-speaking Swiss emigrants.