Recognizing El Bolsón

The urban area of the City of El Bolsón is sheltered by Mount Piltriquitrón and the Quemquentreu River. All attractions lie nearby and make it evident why it is so popular among visitors. As we arrived, we were puzzled by the hustle and bustle and the colorful Pagano Square, at the very center of the district. For many years, it has been the seat of the Regional Craftsmen Fair where products made in the zone are offered for sale. We paid attention to the quality and variety of the items on display at each stall, whether they were made of wood, wool or leather, dry leaves, candles, or the like. We purchased several objects and a bag of dry cherries and raspberries. When it comes to handmade articles, we also found the store of the craftsmen’s cooperative at 1800, San Martín Avenue.

We came across the tourist information office on the corner of San Martín and Roca Streets, where we learned a little bit more about this location. We heard about a free pedestrian guided tour around the urban grid that promises interesting stories and anecdotes, including the site where the town was founded, on the way to Los Nogales. The cultural life is reflected on every corner of the city. Signs invite everyone to enjoy shows of different kinds. We found live music at the room for multiple uses, the theater, the cultural centers and the cafés, breweries and restaurants. Another feature that defines the city is its annual festivals, which summon thousands of tourists willing to take part in unforgettable celebrations. The Hop Festival, held late in February, is the most famous. It is at that moment when the fruit ripen and are extracted to contribute their perfume to local beer. Day and night activities concentrate their attention on southern music and tasting sessions for this classic drink. Other celebrations include the Craft Beer Festival, held in October, like in other districts around the world. This is known as October Fest. The Chicha, Asado, Anniversary and Jazz Festivals follow one another and always mean fun. Declared ecological municipality, El Bolsón honors this title and shows how its people search to return to the natural, to working the land and cultivating spiritual life day after day.