This small mountain town in Patagonia has weekly craft markets, local breweries, and hiking trails in the Andes. It's known for growing hops and berries in the Río Negro valley.
El Bolsón sits at the base of Cerro Piltriquitrón in Argentina's Río Negro Province. You'll find more than 300 artisans selling their work at the Plaza Pagano market, eight microbreweries making craft beer from local hops, and hiking trails leading through mountain forests and along the clear waters of Río Azul. Local farms grow berries and herbs in the valley's Mediterranean microclimate.
Getting to El Bolsón
Buses depart every few hours from Bariloche to El Bolsón. The two-hour journey follows Ruta 40 through the Andean mountains. You can walk to most places in town, or take local buses to reach trailheads and nearby attractions.
Plaza Pagano Market
The artisan market opens Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday in Plaza Pagano. Browse through wooden crafts, leather goods, homemade jams, and regional beers from more than 300 local artists. In summer, jazz musicians and folk bands play while local farmers sell fresh strawberries, raspberries, and elderberries. The market has grown from a small gathering of artisans who settled here in the 1970s.
Hiking Around Río Azul
Several marked trails wind through the Río Azul area. The Cajón del Azul trail stretches 5 kilometers through pine and cypress forests, ending at mountain shelters where you can spend the night. In summer, cool off in the river's 10°C waters.
Local Food and Drink
Eight microbreweries in El Bolsón make beer using locally grown hops - the region produces 75% of Argentina's total hop supply. The valley's mineral-rich soil supports 200 organic farms growing berries, herbs, and vegetables. At Jauja ice cream shop, you'll find flavors made from local elderberries and calafate berries. Many restaurants serve smoked trout caught in nearby rivers and goat cheese from local farms.
Mountain Activities
Hike up Cerro Piltriquitrón (2,260 meters) to reach El Bosque Tallado, where 30 Argentine artists have carved figures into dead trees. The mountain also serves as a launch point for paragliding flights. For a quick hike, climb Cerro Amigo - you'll reach views of the valley after 30 minutes.
Climate and Seasons
The valley location keeps temperatures milder than surrounding Patagonian areas. Winter (May to August) brings rain and occasional snow, with temperatures around 3°C. Summer days (December to February) reach 24°C, dropping to 7°C at night. Plan your hikes between October and April when trails are clear of snow and mountain shelters are open.
