Learn Spanish in Bariloche

A Guide to Studying Spanish in Bariloche

Are you thinking about taking a Spanish course in Argentina? There are so many reasons to choose Bariloche as your destination. Often overlooked in favour of Mendoza, Cordoba and Buenos Aires, you will discover a real gem of a city away from the tourist crowds.

Location

Bariloche is a pleasant, busy ski resort town of 110,000, located on the shores of Lago Nahuel Huapi and on the doorstep of the Andes, at the northern reaches of Patagonia Argentina, a perfect place to study abroad. This region is famous for wildlife and nature - all of which can be explored in your spare time.

The city is very well connected to the main cities in Argentina and Chile by plane or bus.

The picturesque village stretches along the banks of the beautiful lake (Nahuel Huapi), surrounded by mountains to the west and the dry steppe in the east.  The geographic and cultural center is the city-hall, built in 1938 in a perfect Patagonian version of the alpine style.  Because the public transportation system quickly connects all parts of the city, visitors don't waste much time communiting.

Weather

There is so much to do all year round, with four distinct seasons. Patagonian summers, with 16 hours daylight, allow for extended timetables for all kinds of outdoor activities. As for the climate we can expect long, hot and dry days in summer, more precipitation during autumn and spring, and snow covered mountains in winter.

Depending on the time of year you book a class you will find two different cities.

Fully covered with snow, Bariloche in winter receives thousands of visitors that come to practice ski in internationally renowned resorts. During this time you can enjoy trips to Mount Cathedral, the most visited ski resort. Go further and amaze yourself with Mount Bayo. This mountain is steeper and fully equipped for professionals.

All ski resorts count with cable cars that will take to the top of each peak; the picture of Bariloche from above, all covered with whiteness, is just astonishing. Reach the top of the hill, where you can enjoy a hot chocolate with croissants or have lunch in one of the many incredible restaurants built on the solid rocks.

If you visit Bariloche during summer you will encounter a different landscape but as attractive as the one found in winter. During spring and summer the image gives a sudden turn, now landscapes are fully covered by colorful and varied flowers. Go around natural paths among pines and woods that are excellent to practice mountain bike or just to stroll and relax.

Take your time to discover the natural species that flourish in Bariloche, including the Arayan, Cypress and Cohiue trees. Flowers are found everywhere, roses, lilies, lavender, geraniums and many more.

Population

The population of Bariloche  is currently 120,000 inhabitants, mostly descendants of European immigrants. Swiss, Germans, Austrians, and Italians settled in these beautiful surroundings and kept their traditions and customs giving a special character to Bariloche.

Bariloche shares with Buenos Aires the highest percentage per capita of Argentineans holding advanced degrees. You will find that locals are friendly and supportive with Spanish students. I strongly recommend homestays with a local host family to improve your Spanish skills and also to gain a valuable local perspective.

Cultural Life

Bariloche offers a big variety of events, like theater, exhibitions, cinemas and concerts. There are several interesting museums, and a big public library near the town hall. Centro Civico is the cultural heart, the perfect space for open parties: concerts, parades, dances and other events.

School can make arrangements to enable students to participate in social or cultural events. When a public event takes place, such as shows, meetings, lectures, or exhibitions, students receive all the information and the school organizes the activity for those who are interested.

Bariloche is home to three universities: Universidad del Comahue, Universidad Fasta and Universidad Nacional de Rio Negro, therefore the university environment is present all over.

While a relatively small city, Bariloche is very modern with wifi available in many public spaces, cafes, bars, accomodations and homestays.v

If your spare time you could take a boat trip around the large Nahuel Huapi lake, a distinguishing feature of the Bariloche landscape. Its deep blue waters are surrounded by high peaks and mountains and rocky coasts. Besides practicing water sports, you will learn about the legends and mysteries of the Nahuel Huapi Lake

 One of these legends affirm that a huge monster, similar to the Lock-ness monster, lives submerged in under the dark waters. So if you enjoy adventure and mysterious regions, Bariloche is definitely the best place to learn Spanish in Argentina.

Studying in Bariloche is a wonderful experience, you can make lot of friends in the incredible discos and pubs full of young people that come from all over Argentina. It is a tradition in Argentina that after finishing school, students travel to Bariloche to celebrate their achievement.

You will find students from every province of the country coming during summer or winter vacations, giving you the perfect opportunity to know people from every corner of Argentina and get to know different cultures and customs in just one place.

No matter if you want to study abroad or take a gap year in Argentina, whatever the season you choose, Bariloche will always surprise you with diverse and fun activities during every month of the year.

Schools can also arrange volunteer programs, games, music, cultural and outdoors activities are available to complement this unique way of learning and make the most of your journey in South America.