Horseback Riding and Argentine Asado

Horses have shaped life in Patagonia for centuries, and riding is one of the most authentic ways to see the countryside around Bariloche. This excursion pairs a guided ride with an asado, the Argentine barbecue that is as much a social ritual as a meal. Pickup from your hotel takes you out of the city to a ranch or riding centre in the foothills, where guides fit you with a horse suited to your experience, give a short briefing and lead the group at a walk or gentle trot along trails with views of the lakes and mountains. The riding is generally relaxed, which makes the experience accessible to first-timers, and the guides adjust the pace for the group. Afterwards the group gathers for lunch around the grill, where beef and other cuts cooked over embers are served with salads, bread and wine or soft drinks, and there is usually time to talk about local ranch life. The whole outing takes around four to six hours including transfers.

The appeal lies in the combination. Riding gives you a slow, close view of the terrain, from open grassland to patches of forest, and the horses and guides bring a sense of place that a vehicle cannot. The asado is a lesson in Argentine food culture. Meat is cooked slowly over wood or coals rather than flames, seasoned simply with coarse salt, and carved at the table, usually with a sauce called chimichurri on the side.

Vegetarians should tell the operator when booking, since the traditional menu centres on grilled meat, although side dishes and vegetables are normally available.

Practical details matter. Wear long trousers, closed shoes with a small heel or hiking boots, and layers, because the weather changes quickly and the open country can be windy. Helmets are usually provided and often required. Operators set weight limits and minimum ages, and some ask you to mention any back, knee or hip problems.

If you are a nervous rider, tell the guide at the start, because horses are matched to confidence as well as size. Bring sun protection and a hat that you can secure, and keep valuables in a small pouch or leave them in the vehicle.

The experience works for couples, families with older children and groups of friends, and it fits any season with fair weather, although winter rides can be cold and may be rescheduled when the trails are icy or snow-covered. In spring and autumn the trails are quieter and the light on the hills is softer, which makes for good photographs.

If you want more activity, combine the ride with a morning of kayaking on Nahuel Huapi, and if you prefer a gentler day, finish the afternoon with hot chocolate in town. Confirm the exact location, length of the ride and what the meal includes when you choose a departure, since formats vary between ranches.

Many ranches also keep a few friendly dogs and farm animals, so children and animal lovers tend to enjoy the stop even before the ride starts. Ask whether the route changes with the season, since spring mud and winter snow can shorten the ride and move more of the day to the grill. Arrive a few minutes early so that you can be fitted calmly, because horses and guides work to a schedule and the lunch is timed around the ride.