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From: https://wander-argentina.com/esquel-a-relaxed-pueblo-in-patagonia/

Esquel is a relaxed Patagonian town in Chubut. It’s refreshing change from the sometimes tourist-inundated bustle of Bariloche.

Founded by adventurous Welsh immigrants who arrived in 1865, the little 28,000-person pueblo has a reputation as a sleepy place, but it’s a good place to stay to explore the surrounding area.

Scientists may be familiar with the name Esquel because of the Esquel pallasite meteorite found here in 1951 by a local farmer.

Oddly enough in chilly Patagonia, homeowners in Esquel seems to take huge pride in their front garden, and a stroll through town one will probably encounter several of the green-fingered inhabitants snipping away.

Aside from the rumbling antiquity of La Trochita, the town is a great base from which to enjoy some world-class Patagonia fishing and to explore the fabulous Alerces National Park, 50 km away.

The park is home to tranquil lakes and formidable hiking trails which wind past some of the world’s oldest Alcere (Fitzroy) trees. The park is named for the lovely species, which can live to be 3,600 years old.

Those curious about Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid can also make a pilgrimage to the cabins built by the North American banditos on the outskirts of Cholila, a sleepy village near the park.

Built in the traditional American style by Cassidy himself, they housed the outlaws during their exile from the U.S. authorities from 1901-1906. During the winter months, Esquel and her surrounding hills offer excellent skiing opportunities, most notably at the small La Hoya ski resort, 13km away.
 

 

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