Argentina-Sporting Paradise
29
June
Argentina is much more than just the glitz and glimmer of its sophisticated capital, Buenos Aires. The country has a long tradition of being a sportsman’s paradise. . .and not just for futbol (although Argentines are certainly known for that)! Travelers interested in any outdoor activity will find what they are looking for, and more.
Argentina is big and diverse. From the deltas and pampas surrounding Buenos Aires, to the majestic, snow-capped peaks of the Andes, and from the semi-tropical northeast, to the arid expanses of the northwest, no one who enjoys sporting activities will be at a loss for entertainment, adventure, and excitement.
Fishing in Patagonia
Argentina boasts enough lakes, rivers, streams, and coastline, to make it a perfect destination for anglers, sailors, and anyone who enjoys spending time on the water. Although fishing is a year-round sport in most of the country, summer (late May-early September) is by far the best season, especially in Patagonia.
Early in the 20th century, brown and rainbow trout were introduced into the rivers and lakes of Patagonia, and since then have thrived extremely well. Beautiful salmon, perch, and freshwater dorado can also be found in this region. Anglers will be amazed at the size, beauty, and abundance of the fish in this unspoiled wilderness.
Patagonia is home to quite a few charming towns, which offer more than just a roof, meal, and bed. Bariloche, San Martin de los Andes, and Villa de Angostura are three beautiful towns that have offer a variety of accommodations, activities, and restaurants to satisfy even the most demanding traveler. In these towns, and in the surrounding areas, visitors will find world-class hunting and fishing lodges, centers to arrange guides, and outfitters offering high quality gear.
Skiing the Andes
Recently, skiing has become a huge sport in Argentina, and the country boasts numerous resorts scattered throughout the Andes, but two resorts in particular are stunning, world-class destinations. Cerro Catedral is located just a few minutes drive from Bariloche, and has just been renovated to make it the largest and most developed ski resort in all of South America. The mountain features 5000 acres of land available for skiing, with elevations reaching just below 7000 feet. With plenty of trails for skiers of all abilities, as well as a park and half pipe for snowboarders, Cerro Catedral offers a wonderland of adventure, in a beautiful location with all the amenities that travelers want.
Las Lenas is one of Argentinas newer resorts, built in 1983, and is the Mecca for expert skiers. Boasting a top elevation of 11,328 feet, Las Lenas is not for the faint of heart. Skiers will find 40 miles of runs with gradients from 12-53%, and access to explore the beautiful backcountry for those wishing to get off the beaten path. After a day of adventure, the resort has plenty of other ways to relax and have fun, including the highest-elevation casino in the world, discos, bars, restaurants, spas, and anything else that tourists could want.
The ski season in Argentina runs from June to mid-October.
Other Activities
Year-round in Argentina, lovers of sport will find something active and exciting to participate in. Horseback riding on the pampas, is always in season. Traveling to the northwest corner near Salta, one will find an arid, warm desert climate year-round, that lends itself to hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, and other activities that can be enjoyed under the hot sun. Of course, Argentina also has miles and miles of coastline with beach resorts scattered throughout which are extremely popular in summer.
In a land as big and diverse as Argentina, it is safe to say that whatever the active traveler is looking for, he will find in this unique and beautiful country.




