Tracy Carolyn Photography

At the end of a 19-hour bus ride from Bariloche was Mendoza – Argentina’s wine country.  Before arriving in Mendoza I’d heard rumors of fantastic wine, excellent food, and gorgeous scenery.  Well, two out of three ain’t bad.A bike trip through the wineries began as good fun, but a torrential downpour forced us to abandon our bikes halfway through and take the bus home.  The first few images show the dry part of our journey.  Not wanting to leave without delicious Malbec and Torrontes in tow, we located an excellent tasting room and promptly ordered several bottles shipped back to the US.  Score one for Mendoza.  Finding an excellent meal, however, proved much more challenging.  Fortunately, we found an apartment (with kitchen) to rent for a few days.  Cooking from home turned out to be the best option in town.After the gorgeous views in Bariloche I couldn’t imagine more beautiful scenery.  But the desert landscape did impress.  Particularly when viewed from above while paragliding.  John took the last image or me with his point-and-shoot from his parachute.

Overall, not a bad way to spend 5 days :)

Itinerary for Bariloche:

Wake up in gorgeous Swiss-like mountain town.  Make your way to the top of a craggly Andes mountain and ogle mind-blowingly beautiful scenery.  Head back down to adorable village and enjoy tasty chocolate treat from one of many delectable chocolate shops.  Find a spot on the pebbly beach to look out over clear lake water whist listening to local band playing in the town square.  Enjoy delicious dinner with fantastic bottle of Malbec wine.  Return to hostel a happy camper.

Repeat as necessary.

Needless to say, I enjoyed Bariloche :)  Easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve even been, though my photos don’t do it justice.  (I’m better with people than scenery.)  More photos to come when I go through them.