International Beer Day: The Best Argentinian Destinations to Get the Drink
Water, barley, yeast, and hop: four ingredients that together work magic in the form of a liquid. This is what we feel when we drink cold beer: it’s a break in our routines, a shared moment, a flavour that crosses borders. For all this, every first Friday of August, the International Beer Day is celebrated to toast to one of the oldest drinks of humanity (the first records date back to 4,000 BC) and one of the most consumed worldwide. The number of types varies depending on the kind of production, location, and ingredients. There are more than hundreds of varieties, and the innovation around this phenomenon is unstoppable. The brew masters show off their art, charming dozens of fans all over the globe, bringing nationalities together, and enabling the most beautiful thing about beer: meeting our close people.
Argentina hasn’t fallen behind because many spots around here are considered ideal for tasting the hop-derived elixir. Beer, ale, pint, lager, brewski… All nicknames add up to the same: the experience of drinking a cold beer is unique! Now, if the travelling ingredient is added to that feeling, then it can’t get any better. These are some Argentinian destinations where beer in hand is a must.
El Bolsón, Río Negro
A tremendous success. The craft beer boom found its place in the world: the heart of the Rio Negro province. Beyond the local brewing, the setting, with the impressive mountains, night campfires, and friends, confirms the idea that the best company to enjoy the destination is, indeed, a very cold pint.
The region’s beer history dates back to 1984, when the first local brewery opened. The rest of the factories joined the trend and turned Patagonia into a superb beer-taster. Moreover, El Bolsón hosts the National Hop Festival every February, which coincides with the beginning of the harvest of one of the main ingredients.
What places must you discover with beer in hand? Take panoramic views of the city packed with Patagonian touches from Cerro Amigo. The Cascada Escondida, a 20-to-30-minute walk among native flora. The pools near Río Azul known as “El Paraíso” (The Paradise, a nickname that fairly comes from its crystal-clear waters). And, finally, visit the artisan fair in the city centre.
Villa General Belgrano, Córdoba
A province that moves to the rhythm of Argentinian passions. Córdoba couldn’t be left out of the list because it ensures enjoyment, happiness, and good drinks. In Villa General Belgrano, one of the greatest events of the year, of the town, and of the country takes place. The Oktoberfest, the well-known German festival celebrated year after year in Munich, has its Argentinian version. During two weekends the National Beer Festival takes place, bringing together different styles of beer, local cuisine, typical clothing, and music. Thousands of tourists come to experience first-hand Córdoba’s people’s wit, which perfectly pairs with the drink being honoured every October.
Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires
A few kilometres from the capital of Argentina, there’s a city that has it all. Mar del Plata, known among Argentinians as "La Feliz" (The Happy City), and beer get along very well. Due to its youthful vibes and Atlantic Ocean’s infinite blue sea (its ace up its sleeve), it is home to great craft breweries. When it comes to pairings, we can say that waves, summer, and beer were born together. January and February become the months for parties, beach relaxation, and lots and lots of beer.
In addition, its coastal signature also gives it a unique culinary angle: some fried squids and a view of the sea added to the beer combo, we don’t need much else, do you? To top it off, go to the stalls and bars with access to the sand area, the Bosque Peralta Ramos (in case you want to change blue for leafy green), and the beaches in the city’s south.
Capital Federal, Buenos Aires
The country’s capital is part of the list because it’s packed with places to worship the amber drink that has planted the flag in Argentinian’s hearts. Palermo, the neighbourhood of colourful graffiti and youth, wins out with new and classic alternatives —always respecting the ‘pleasure and pairing’ idea. Rooftops, tables on the pavement, and beer gardens are some of the options one of the coolest places in Buenos Aires offers.
Fighting for the podium, Recoleta, Colegiales, San Telmo, and Villa Crespo show up and continue escalating their gastronomy and beer options. Yet, every cobblestone street and awesome corner are perfect for opening a pint and toasting.