Nestled in a picturesque valley between the Andes and the steppe, Trevelin is one of Patagonia’s most charming and culturally rich towns. Known for its Welsh heritage, rolling farmlands, and spring wildflowers, Trevelin offers a gentle contrast to the dramatic landscapes that surround it.
Its name comes from the Welsh words “tre” (town) and “velin” (mill), referring to the historic mill established by Welsh settlers in the late 1800s. Today, Trevelin invites travelers to slow down, sip tea, and explore its unique blend of cultures and natural beauty.
A Living Legacy of Wales in Patagonia
Welsh immigrants arrived in the Chubut Valley in the 1860s and later expanded into the Andean foothills, founding Trevelin in 1889. The town preserves this legacy through:
- Traditional tea houses serving homemade cakes and scones
- The Molino Nant Fach, a replica of the original flour mill and a fascinating museum
- Annual cultural events like Eisteddfod, a Welsh music and poetry festival
You’ll see bilingual signage around town and even hear bits of Welsh spoken among locals who keep the tradition alive.
Nature & Outdoor Activities
- Nant y Fall Waterfalls: A short drive from town, this cascade is surrounded by lenga forest and picnic areas
- Tulip Fields (October): A spectacular spring bloom that rivals Dutch displays, set against snow-capped mountains
- Fly fishing: The nearby Futaleufú River is world-famous for its trout and salmon
Road Trip Tip: A Key Stop on the Andean Corridor
Trevelin is perfectly located for travelers exploring the lakes and forests of Patagonia’s Andean region.
Getting There
- From Esquel: Just 25 km (15 mi) southwest via RN259—a smooth and scenic drive
- From Parque Nacional Los Alerces: About 70 km (43 mi), making for a great nature-and-culture loop
- From Futaleufú (Chile): Cross-border travelers can enter via Paso Futaleufú (paved and scenic)
Combine With
- La Trochita: A ride on the historic steam train from Esquel
- Los Alerces National Park: For hiking, kayaking, and ancient forests
- Ruta 40 corridor: Continuing north to Lago Puelo, El Bolsón, or Bariloche
Trevelin is a place of gentle surprises—where Welsh tea houses sit at the foot of the Andes, and spring bursts into color in vast tulip fields. It’s ideal for travelers seeking culture, calm, and a touch of poetry in their Patagonian journey.
We’re a local tour operator based in Buenos Aires, which offers custom tours in Patagonia and other regions of Argentina and Chile. We invite you to contact us, and start planning your next incredible journey to South America!
Get inspired by some of our travel ideas, listed below:
Argentina and Chile Border Crossing
Mendoza to Bariloche Self Drive
Patagonia Road Trip: From El Calafate to Ushuaia
Best Family Road Trips in Argentina
0
