Trevelin: A Historic Welsh Settlement in Patagonia

Nestled in the shadow of the Andes, Trevelin is a town rich in Welsh-Patagonian history and culture. Its name, derived from the Welsh Trefelin (“mill town”), reflects its origins as a flour milling hub for the Welsh settlers who arrived in the late 19th century. Located on the eastern banks of the Percy River, 22 km south of Esquel, Trevelin has grown steadily, with a population of 7,908 recorded in the 2010 census.
The story of Trevelin is rooted in the expansion of Welsh Patagonia, led by a group of settlers known as y Rifleros, who set out in 1885 to search for fertile land beyond the Chubut Valley.

After a long and arduous journey across the Patagonian Steppe, they discovered the lush, fertile valley that they named Cwm Hyfryd (The Pleasant Valley), which would later become home to Trevelin and surrounding settlements. This discovery was vital for the survival and prosperity of the Welsh colony, providing land suitable for farming in an otherwise harsh and unforgiving landscape.

The town’s history is closely tied to Welsh pioneer John Daniel Evans, who established the first flour mill, Los Andes, in 1891. Evans, an explorer and key figure in the expansion of Welsh Patagonia, is also remembered for his escape from an ambush in 1884, when his horse, Malacara, saved his life by leaping down a steep embankment to safety. This event, which led to the deaths of three of his companions, is commemorated at Dyffryn y Merthyron (Valley of the Martyrs), a site of deep historical significance in the region.  Malacara’s legacy lives on in Trevelin, where his grave at Cartref Taid has become one of the town’s popular historical attractions. Visitors can pay tribute to this legendary horse, whose courage helped shape the destiny of Welsh Patagonia.

Trevelin also played a crucial role in shaping Argentina’s borders. In 1902, during a territorial dispute between Argentina and Chile, the town became the site of a pivotal moment in history. At School No. 18, Welsh settlers and Mapuche-Tehuelche inhabitants voted overwhelmingly to remain part of Argentina rather than Chile, a decision that helped define national sovereignty in the area. This event is still celebrated today as a defining moment in Patagonia’s history.

Trevelin Today: A Blend of History, Culture, and Nature

Trevelin has preserved its Welsh-Patagonian roots while evolving into a thriving town that embraces tourism, agriculture, and outdoor adventure. The Los Andes Flour Mill, originally built by John Daniel Evans, now houses a museum in the center of town, offering visitors a glimpse into Trevelin’s milling heritage and the resilience of its settlers.

A few kilometers outside Trevelin, the Nant Fach Mill stands as another tribute to this history. Built by Mervyn Evans, the mill offers historical demonstrations and exhibits that bring the past to life. Next to it, a historical street has been constructed, recreating how Trevelin may have looked over a century ago, complete with a bar, shop, and period-style buildings, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the town’s early years.

Trevelin’s Welsh influence is evident in its tea houses, where visitors can enjoy the famous Torta Galesa Negra, a dense, spiced fruit cake that has become a signature of Welsh-Patagonian cuisine. The town’s Welsh chapels and bilingual street signs further reflect the enduring presence of its founders’ language and traditions.

Beyond its cultural significance, Trevelin is a gateway to Los Alerces National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient forests, glacial lakes, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Visitors can explore Lake Futalaufquen, hike through pristine landscapes, or enjoy fishing and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters. The Valley of the 16th of October (Cwm Hyfryd in Welsh), with its fertile farmlands and dramatic Andean backdrop, remains a testament to the resilience and vision of the Welsh settlers, who saw the valley as their “Promised Land.”

One of the region’s hidden gems is Nant y Fall, a breathtaking area of waterfalls and forests, located a short drive from Trevelin. This natural attraction offers stunning hiking trails and panoramic views, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers. In addition to its natural beauty, Trevelin is also home to Patagonia’s southernmost vineyard, producing high-altitude wines that reflect the unique climate of the region.

Perhaps Trevelin’s most famous seasonal attraction is its tulip fields, which bloom in a spectacular display of color every spring (October). The fields, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Andes, draw visitors from across Argentina and beyond, making the Tulips of Trevelin one of the town’s most photographed and celebrated sights.

Today, Trevelin is a town where history meets nature, offering a unique blend of Welsh heritage, Argentine culture, and stunning Patagonian scenery. Whether visiting for its rich history, traditional customs, or outdoor adventures, Trevelin remains one of the most remarkable destinations in Welsh Patagonia.