Where Locals Go features under-the-radar holiday destinations that are often overlooked by visitors but cherished by locals. Here, we ask three experts on Argentina for their top picks.
From the wineries of Mendoza to the sophistication of Buenos Aires to the splendor of Igazú Falls, Argentina boasts a range of landscapes and experiences that make it one of the most beloved destinations in the world. Of course, though, there’s always value in veering off the well-worn loop of places most frequented by tourists. To get the best of the country’s often-overlooked escapes, we asked three Argentina-based experts to share where they take their vacations.
Historic bars and gaucho culture: San Antonio de Areco
Federico Perelmuter is a freelance writer and critic who lives in Buenos Aires.
Arriving in San Antonio de Areco from the bustling city of Buenos Aires always feels like stepping into a different world.
Located two hours from the capital by car, this small rural town has colonial architecture and cobblestone streets sparkling under the sun that make it feel timeless. Nicknamed the “cradle of tradition,” the Pampas town was a vibrant hub of gaucho life during the 19th century, beautifully depicted in the Ricardo Güiraldes’ novel Don Segundo Sombra. To delve deeper into gaucho culture, a visit to the Güiraldes Museum is a must. Housed in Güiraldes’ former family estate, the museum showcases well-preserved artifacts representing key elements of gaucho culture, from boleadoras (weapons used to ensnare cattle) to pulperías (grocery stores that also functioned as bars).
One of my favorite things to do is sit in a sunny square while indulging in alfajores (dulce de leche sandwich cookies) from La Olla de Cobre, Areco’s renowned chocolate shop. For accommodation, I highly recommend Pampas de Areco: located just south of the town center, with 30 rooms, a spa, beautiful interiors and reasonable prices. When it comes to dining, a five-minute drive from town will take you to Restaurante Histórico Lacarra, where you can savor delicious, classically Argentine food while enjoying the ambiance of an old townhouse. And, of course, no visit to San Antonio de Areco is complete without a stop at the legendary Boliche de Bessonart Bar for a Fernet Cola (a type of bittersweet Italian liqueur mixed with cola, poured over ice). The historic bar (over 200 years old)…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Stories – Lonely Planet…