In the vastness of the island of Tierra del Fuego, surrounded by mountainous landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient forests, lies a destination that has managed to preserve its natural and cultural essence over time: Tolhuin. Halfway between Ushuaia and Río Grande, this small town in the southernmost province of Argentina stands out as one of the best-kept secrets of the End of the World, ideal for those looking to escape the routine and connect with nature.
With just over 6,000 inhabitants, Tolhuin is located in a transition zone between the Fuegian Andes and the Patagonian steppe. It also features picturesque beaches that are very uncrowded, perfect for spending a pleasant time away from noise and enjoying a nice afternoon while picnicking and watching the reflection of the mountains in its crystal-clear waters.
Tolhuin also hides small waterfalls and cascades that are concealed within the dense Fuegian forest. It is an incredible place that attracts enthusiasts of sport fishing, kayaking, water sports, and sailing.
Tolhuin is a beautiful town surrounded by lakes and mountains. Cerro Jeujepén and Cerro Shenolsh, both near Tolhuin, are elevated points that offer unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Fagnano and the entire island.
The vessel Desdémona is stranded at Cape San Pablo and can be viewed for free. There, life moves at a slow pace, and the locals are very friendly towards travelers who come to discover the tourist attractions in the area, such as the bakery La Unión, a must-stop for fans of pastries and cakes.
One of the main attractions in Tolhuin is the majestic Lake Fagnano, which is the largest body of water in the region and extends from Argentina to Chile. On the Patagonian Coast, there is an endless array of monumental landscapes to visit, one of which holds the history of a merchant ship built in Germany that ran aground on a remote sandy beach, which has housed the remains of this ship since 1985, and they are well preserved considering the passage of time.
The site of this ship is called Cape San Pablo: it is a geographical feature belonging to the department of Tolhuin, in the province of Tierra del Fuego, and is notable for its rustic and unique beauty. Cape San Pablo is an isolated hill that juts out into the sea along a coastal stretch of its orientation and is primarily composed of rocks. It becomes dangerous when the sea is high (high tide) because it reaches 1,200 meters into the water, which is why the Argentine Navy built the San Pablo Lighthouse in 1945 to prevent shipwrecks in the area. These places are accessed through little-trafficked paths, ideal for those seeking a medium-difficulty trek surrounded by peace and silence.
