Best Day Trips from Circuito Chico

Discover the vibrant heart of San Carlos de Bariloche, famous for its Swiss-alpine architecture, delectable chocolate shops, and bustling craft breweries. Explore the Civic Center, stroll along the lakeside, and indulge in local gastronomy. While public transport is an option, a rental car provides the freedom to easily combine this with other nearby attractions or enjoy a scenic drive back to your Circuito Chico accommodation.

Immerse yourself in the history and charm of Colonia Suiza, the oldest European settlement in the region, known for its traditional curanto feast and artisan market on Wednesdays and Sundays. Combine this with a visit to Cerro Campanario, acclaimed by National Geographic as one of the 'world's best views,' accessible via chairlift. A car allows you to easily hop between these points and explore other viewpoints along Circuito Chico.

Embark on a segment of Argentina's legendary Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Route of the Seven Lakes), driving north on RN40 towards the charming town of Villa La Angostura. This scenic drive showcases crystal-clear lakes, dense forests, and magnificent mountain vistas. Stop at numerous viewpoints to capture breathtaking photos and enjoy short walks. Villa La Angostura itself offers quaint shops and restaurants, making it a perfect lunch stop. A rental car is essential for this iconic Patagonian journey.

Journey deep into Nahuel Huapi National Park to witness the majestic Mount Tronador, a triple-peaked stratovolcano straddling the Chile-Argentina border, famous for its 'Thundering Glacier.' The drive includes a significant gravel section (RP81/RP82), leading to Ventisquero Negro (Black Glacier) and the stunning Cascada de los Alerces. This trip requires careful driving, but the rewards are immense: pristine nature, glacial landscapes, and impressive waterfalls. A sturdy rental car is indispensable for navigating the varied terrain and restricted gate hours.

Head south on the iconic Ruta 40 to El Bolsón, a bohemian town renowned for its vibrant artisan market, organic produce, and laid-back atmosphere. Explore the market (especially on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), sample local craft beers, and enjoy the counter-culture vibe. Continue to Lago Puelo National Park, a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the water. Your rental car ensures you can easily visit both and enjoy the scenic drive through valleys and past fruit farms.

For a full day of exploration, embark on the Circuito Grande. This extensive loop takes you from Circuito Chico, through Bariloche, north on RN237, then east on RP65 towards Villa La Angostura before returning via RN40. It encompasses diverse landscapes, from steppe to dense forests, passing by lakes such as Nahuel Huapi, Traful, and Espejo. It’s an ideal way to experience a broader section of the region, revealing hidden valleys and remote vistas that are only accessible with your own vehicle.