Trevelin

Nestled in the foothills of the Andes in Argentine Patagonia, Trevelin is a Welsh-Argentine town that feels like a slice of Patagonia with a Celtic twist. Founded by Welsh settlers in the late 19th century, its name means 'town of the mill' in Welsh. Surrounded by lush valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and snow-capped peaks, Trevelin offers a unique blend of Patagonian wilderness and Welsh heritage. The town is famous for its tea houses, where you can enjoy traditional Welsh cakes and scones, and for its stunning natural attractions, including the breathtaking Nant Fach waterfall.

Highlights & What to See

• Nant Fach Waterfall – A spectacular 35-metre cascade plunging into a turquoise pool, accessible via a short walk through native forest. It’s the town’s iconic sight.
• Welsh Tea Houses – Sink your teeth into authentic Welsh afternoon tea at places like Nain Maggie or Ty Nain, complete with homemade jams, clotted cream, and freshly baked bread.
• Los Alerces National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage site just a short drive away, with ancient alerce trees, glacial lakes, and hiking trails for all levels.
• Trevelin Historical Museum – Housed in the former train station, it tells the story of the Welsh settlement and the region’s indigenous Mapuche heritage.
• Río Corintos – A stunning turquoise river perfect for fly-fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying a picnic along its banks.

Suggested Time to Spend

Trevelin itself can be explored in a day, but to truly soak up its charm and explore the surrounding nature, plan for two to three days. Spend your first day visiting the waterfall and tea houses, then dedicate a full day to Los Alerces National Park. If you’re an avid hiker or angler, add an extra day to explore the Río Corintos or tackle longer trails in the park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Esquel – The gateway town to Trevelin, with the famous La Trochita steam train and access to the ski resort of La Hoya.
• Los Alerces National Park – A must-visit for its pristine lakes, ancient forests, and rugged mountains.
• Bariloche – About 200 km north, this alpine-style city on Lake Nahuel Huapi offers chocolate shops, skiing, and the Circuito Chico scenic drive.
• Puerto Madryn – On the Atlantic coast, a prime spot for whale watching (June–December) and sea lion colonies.
• El Chaltén – Argentina’s trekking capital, with iconic peaks like Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, about 400 km south.

Please check official sources for current details.