SAN PABLO CAPE & ROLITO RANCH
Every land has its own secrets but not everyone is chosen to know them: a lighthouse in a lonely cape, a mysterious sunken ship for 40 years and a distinguished antique “estancia” are some of the icons that reveal the unknown stories of Tierra del Fuego. Very early in the morning departure from Ushuaia following National Route 3 and crossing The Andes through the Garibaldi Pass. We stop by the little town of Tolhuin, heart of the island, to visit La Unión Bakery. This is a traditional meeting point for both, locals and visitors, and it is part of the charm of this village. By midday we come to the Provincial Route “A”, where we took a gravel road heading toward the Atlantic Ocean and the San Pablo Cape. At this point, we hiked up to an isolated mountain with an abandoned lighthouse at the end. Climbing to the top of this beacon we will appreciate “Desdemona”, an abandoned ship for almost 40 years ago which invites us to sail through time. It happened on a cold winter morning in1983 when this enormous craft ran aground on the shores of the Argentine Sea. After exploring this mysterious giant, we visit Estancia Rolito. This lovely ranch, that keeps the spirit of a family business based on sheep farming tradition, is the first ranch to open its gates to rural tourism.
The excursion runs aboard the Yellow Submarine. Unlike other boats this allows you to observe whales submerged in their own world: underwater and with a completely different perspective. The experience is the same as if you were diving with them! While they remain close to the ship it is possible to observe them through the 40 windows of the underwater cabin. On board, passengers can move freely and also opt for the deck of the ship to observe from the surface as in a traditional whale watching. Departures are subject to visibility in the water.
A guided hike around dazzling lakes, waterfalls, rivers and forests of native ñires. Heritage and age-old stories: -Sail across Lago Argentino among the iceberg clusters to reach Estancia Cristina. -Join an expert guide as you embark on an exciting journey. Hike to the stunning Cascada de Los Perros. -Visit the Heritage Museum to delve into the rich history of the area. -Take a break for a delicious Family Style lunch at the Quincho. Wilderness hike: we will hike uphill towards Cascada de Los Perros along the semi-arid ecotone, reaching hidden spots that reveal the landscape from Lago Argentino to Lago Pearson. Historical hike: The expedition continues along Río Caterina, past the Noria, and to the chapel near Estancia Cristina. We will also visit the Museum that recounts the pioneers’ history in this remote land.