El Bolsón | Bariloche

El Bolsón – Patagonia, Argentina

El Bolsón is a charming town located in the Andean region of Patagonia, Argentina, nestled between the Cerro Piltriquitrón and Cerro El Lobo mountains. Known for its bohemian atmosphere, natural beauty, and organic farming, El Bolsón is a popular destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking a peaceful, alternative lifestyle. The town is surrounded by spectacular landscapes, including lush valleys, forests, and rivers, making it an ideal spot for hiking, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration.

General Information

• Location: El Bolsón is located in the province of Río Negro, about 120 km (75 miles) south of San Carlos de Bariloche and around 1,300 km (810 miles) southwest of Buenos Aires. The town lies at an altitude of 320 meters (1,050 feet) above sea level and is situated in a valley formed by the Río Azul and Río Quemquemtreu rivers.
• Size: El Bolsón has a population of approximately 20,000 people, but the population increases significantly during the summer months, as it is a popular tourist destination.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit El Bolsón is during the summer months (December – March) when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities. However, the town has a distinct charm year-round, with each season offering its own unique experiences, from hiking in spring and summer to skiing in the winter.

Key Highlights & Attractions

1. Cerro Piltriquitrón

• Cerro Piltriquitrón is one of the most iconic peaks in the El Bolsón area, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges. The mountain is a popular hiking destination, with several trails leading to the summit.
  • At the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of El Bolsón and the nearby Cerro El Lobo, as well as Lago Puelo and the Patagonian Andes.
  • There is also a scenic chairlift that takes visitors partway up the mountain, offering spectacular views of the valley and surrounding landscape.

2. The Bosque de Arrayanes (Arrayanes Forest)

• Located near Lago Puelo, the Bosque de Arrayanes is a unique forest that is home to a grove of Arrayanes trees, which are famous for their orange-colored bark. These trees are relatively rare and can only be found in a few places in the world.
• Visitors can explore the forest by walking along designated trails or by taking boat tours from Lago Puelo to reach the forest. The vibrant orange trees create an otherworldly atmosphere, particularly when the sun hits them at certain times of the day.

3. Lago Puelo National Park

• Lago Puelo National Park is a stunning natural area located just outside of El Bolsón. The park is known for its deep blue waters, beautiful beaches, and rich forests. The park is home to Lago Puelo, a picturesque lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
• Activities in the park include boating, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The surrounding forests offer a wealth of flora and fauna to explore, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

4. The Feria de Artesanos (Artisan Market)

• El Bolsón is well-known for its artisan market, or Feria de Artesanos, which takes place every weekend in the town center. The market is a vibrant hub where local artisans and craftspeople sell a wide variety of handmade goods, including pottery, textiles, leather goods, and jewelry.
• The market also features local organic produce, including fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and homemade breads, reflecting the town’s focus on sustainability and organic farming. It’s an excellent place to experience the local culture and purchase unique souvenirs.

5. Hiking and Trekking

• El Bolsón is a mecca for hiking and trekking enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of trails that cater to all levels of experience. Some popular hiking destinations in the area include:
  • Cerro Piltriquitrón: As mentioned, this peak offers fantastic hiking opportunities, including the famous "Sendero de los Pioneros", a trail that leads to the summit through dense forests and alpine meadows.
  • Cerro El Lobo: Another popular peak near El Bolsón, offering great hiking trails that lead to the top with views of the surrounding area, including the Río Azul and Lago Puelo.
  • Laguna Los Malitos: A beautiful glacial lagoon located in the Cerro Tres Picos area, known for its stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere.

6. Río Azul

• The Río Azul is a river that runs through the El Bolsón valley, providing opportunities for rafting, fishing, and swimming. The river is fed by the snowmelt from the surrounding mountains, creating clear, cold water that is perfect for water-based activities.
• The Río Azul also has some picturesque spots for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the area, making it a great place to spend a peaceful afternoon.

7. Lago Escondido

• Lago Escondido (Hidden Lake) is a remote and pristine lake located about 30 km (18 miles) south of El Bolsón. The lake is surrounded by rugged mountains and forests, making it an excellent spot for boating, kayaking, and fishing.
• The area around the lake is peaceful and relatively undeveloped, providing a true escape into nature. Visitors can hike or bike to the lake from nearby access points, and it is a popular spot for camping.

8. Paragliding

• For the more adventurous, El Bolsón offers the opportunity to experience paragliding. The surrounding mountains, particularly Cerro Piltriquitrón, provide ideal conditions for paragliding, with stunning views of the Patagonian Andes, Lago Puelo, and the Río Azul valley below.
• Several local operators offer tandem paragliding flights, providing an unforgettable way to experience the region’s natural beauty from above.

How to Get There

• By Car: El Bolsón is easily accessible by car from San Carlos de Bariloche and other nearby destinations in Patagonia. The town is located on National Route 40, which is a major highway that runs through Argentina.
• By Bus: Several bus companies operate routes to El Bolsón from Bariloche and other cities in Patagonia, with services available year-round.
• By Air: The nearest airport to El Bolsón is San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC), about 120 km (75 miles) away. From there, visitors can take a bus or drive to El Bolsón.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (December – March): The summer months are the most popular time to visit El Bolsón, offering warm weather and ideal conditions for hiking, outdoor activities, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
• Spring (October – November): Spring is a wonderful time to visit, with pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists. It’s an ideal time for hiking and exploring the region's wildlife.
• Autumn (April – May): Fall is a quieter time to visit, with cool temperatures and the added beauty of autumn foliage. The surrounding forests and valleys turn vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange.
• Winter (June – September): Winter is the low season, with cooler temperatures and occasional snow. While some hiking trails may be inaccessible, nearby Cerro Perito Moreno offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Conclusion

El Bolsón is a hidden gem in Patagonia, offering a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and bohemian culture. Whether you are looking for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and skiing, or simply want to relax in a peaceful, scenic environment, El Bolsón provides the perfect setting. With its stunning mountains, lakes, and forests, along with a laid-back atmosphere and strong focus on sustainability and organic farming, El Bolsón is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Patagonian region.