Trevelin Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture in Trevelin, a picturesque town in Patagonia, Argentina.


Introduction to Trevelin

Tucked away in the heart of Patagonia, Trevelin is a charming town that sits at the base of the Andes Mountains in Argentina. Known for its Welsh heritage and scenic countryside, Trevelin offers a plethora of outdoor activities and cultural attractions. This guide will take you through the must-visit places, activities, and cultural experiences in Trevelin, along with recommendations on where to stay, what to eat, and how to make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Trevelin

Visitors to Trevelin can explore a range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Here are the top places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Trevelin Museum of Welsh Settlement - Learn about the town’s Welsh heritage, folklore, and the story of the Welsh settlers who made Patagonia their home in the 19th century.
  2. The Nant Fach Mill Museum - Discover how the Welsh settlers ground their grain using water power at this restored mill.
  3. El Molino Viejo - A historic mill that was used by the Welsh settlers and has now been converted into a cultural center with exhibitions and events.

Natural Attractions of Trevelin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Rio Percy - A scenic river that is popular for fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
  2. Nant y Fall Waterfall - A picturesque waterfall with easy access from the town center.
  3. Los Alerces National Park - Spanning over 2,000 square miles, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to beautiful forests, crystal clear lakes, and glaciers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Trevelin

Trevelin offers a number of hiking and biking opportunities for adventurers. Here are some of the top routes to explore:

  1. Cascada Nant y Fall - A 2.5-mile hike to the picturesque Nant y Fall waterfall.
  2. Lago Futalaufquen - A 9-mile hike through Los Alerces National Park that takes you to the beautiful Futalaufquen Lake.
  3. Circuit of the Welsh Chapels - A 10-mile bike ride that takes you to the traditional Welsh chapels in the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Trevelin: Activities and Tours

  1. Fly-Fishing - Take a guided fly-fishing tour on the Rio Percey or other nearby rivers for a unique experience.
  2. Horseback Riding - Take a leisurely horseback ride through the countryside to see the breathtaking scenery of Patagonia.
  3. Whitewater Rafting - Take the plunge and experience the adrenaline rush of a whitewater rafting adventure through the rapids of the Rio Futaleufu.

Week-Long Itinerary for Trevelin

Day 1: Visit museums and historical sites like the Trevelin Museum of Welsh Settlement and the Nant Fach Mill Museum.

Day 2: Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or biking over the spectacular Circuit of the Welsh Chapels.

Day 3: Explore the natural beauty of the Los Alerces National Park and its clear lakes, forests, and glaciers.

Day 4: Experience fly-fishing or horseback riding with a guided tour.

Day 5: Take a whitewater rafting adventure down the rapids of the Rio Futaleufu.

Day 6: Relax, enjoy the town and its local culture, and shop for souvenirs and local crafts.

Day 7: Visit nearby destinations like the town of Esquel for some more adventure and sightseeing.

Food and Drink Scene of Trevelin

Trevelin offers a mix of traditional Welsh and Argentine cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Cordero al Asador - Slow-cooked lamb roasted on an open fire pit.
  2. Churros - Traditional Argentine sweet treats usually served for breakfast or dessert.
  3. Tortilla de Papas - A classic Spanish dish made with potatoes, onions, and eggs.

Local Beverages

  1. Mate - A traditional Argentine drink made from yerba mate leaves that are steeped in hot water.
  2. Malbec - A red wine that is produced in Mendoza, Argentina, and is known for its rich, bold flavor.
  3. Cerveza Artesanal - Locally brewed artisanal beer made using traditional brewing methods.

Where to Stay in Trevelin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Trevelin offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some recommendations:

  1. Hotel Touring Club - A beautiful hotel that was once a cultural center and is now modernly renovated.
  2. Hostel La Estancia - A budget-friendly well-situated hostel that also provides comfortable rooms.
  3. Villa Trevlin Hotel - A cozy hotel that is ideal for guests looking for personalized attention.

What to Buy in Trevelin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the must-buy local products and souvenirs of Trevelin include:

  1. Traditional Welsh tea - Local tea blends like the Welsh Black tea are a famous souvenir.
  2. Handicrafts – Local craftsmen create pottery, woven textiles and silver jewelry for purchase.
  3. Wool Products - The town has a variety of mills that produce woolen products like yarn, garments, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Trevelin

The town’s Welsh heritage is a unique aspect of its local culture and customs. The people of Trevelin have maintained the Welsh language and traditions of their ancestors. Visitors can also experience local festivals and events, such as the Eisteddfod, which is a celebration of Welsh culture that features music, poetry, and dance.

Best Time to Visit Trevelin

The best time to visit Trevelin is during the summer months from December to February when the weather is mild. However, the beautiful fall and spring seasons in the region also offer mild temperatures and picturesque scenery for visitors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Trevelin

Do:

  1. Do learn some basic Spanish if you don’t speak it already.
  2. Do respect local culture and customs and attend local events and festivals.
  3. Do come prepared for outdoor activities and adventures.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter or damage the environment.
  2. Don’t speak loudly or use vulgar language in public places.
  3. Don’t underestimate the power of the sun, always use sunblock.

Safety and Health

Safety in Trevelin

For safety, always keep an eye on your belongings and leave them in hotel safes when exploring or going on activities. Additionally, avoid traveling in the dark, and always go in groups to keep yourself safer.

Health in Trevelin

Tap water in Trevelin is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is also readily available. Visitors are also advised to take precautions against mosquito bites by using repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants when hiking or walking around in the evenings.

Getting to Trevelin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Trevelin

The closest international airport to Trevelin is the Ezeiza Ministro Pistarini International Airport in Buenos Aires, which is approximately 869 miles away. Regional airports in the surrounding cities, including Esquel, can also be considered.

Bus Stations Near Trevelin

Esquel bus station is the nearest bus station to Trevelin, which is approximately 14 miles away. Several private bus companies regularly operate bus services to and from Esquel.

Other Options

Car hire is an excellent option to explore Trevelin’s surrounding scenery, but bicycles, motorbikes and go- karts can also be rented from one of many rental providers located in Trevelin.

How to Get Around in Trevelin

Walking and taxis are the main modes of transportation in Trevelin, while bicycles can also be rent as an option for exploring the town. Renting a car can be a good option for visitors who intend to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Trevelin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nearby destinations that are worth visiting after Trevelin include the following:

  1. Esquel - A small town that is known for its Alpine-style architecture and outdoor activities like skiing and horseback riding.
  2. Bariloche - A popular tourist spot, Bariloche is a scenic town that is surrounded by mountains and lakes and is known for its chocolate and skiing.
  3. Chile’s Futaleufu Valley - A stunning valley located nearly 50 miles away, this destination offers adventure activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and rafting.

Conclusion

Trevelin is a unique destination for adventurous travelers who are looking to experience Patagonia’s natural beauty. From exploring cultural attractions and museums to participating in outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, there is something for everyone in this charming town. Follow our travel guide to make the most of your visit and have an unforgettable time.