(7 KM from Estancia La Margarita)

The nearby town of Tapalqué was founded in 1863 by the locals living in the area. The Indian term “Tapalqué” means naked sierra or hill. The towns of Bolívar and Olavarría hadn’t yet been founded, and the only other settlements in the area were Azul and Las Flores.  The Governor of Buenos Aires, Mariano Saavedra, signed a decree on November 7th, 1863, making the founding of Tapalqué official.

Cacique Catriel, a famous Indian chief, settled with his followers on the land. Indian tribes roamed the area and frequently came to La Margarita in search of food, drink, and rest for their horses. The gauchos on the estancia interacted in the daily lives of the Indians, adding to the unique history of La Margarita. Indians largely influenced the culture of Tapalqué and their descendants make up a large part of the region’s population.                 

Today, Tapalqué is a traditional gaucho town where you can:

* Visit authentic Gaucho stores that have changed little in the past hundred years and shop the way they still do. Each store has something unique to offer, from fresh home-made bread at the bakery to agricultural tools and artisan wears. Meet locals and experience small-town life at its best.

* Explore the old railway station built by the British and the old machinery that remains. Recently converted into a fine arts school for children, the station retains the antique signs and memorabilia from its past but is being utilized for a new and valuable purpose. During school hours, you are welcome to stop by and the staff is more than happy to give you a tour. Estancia La Margarita supports the new project and has offered to donate a prize to the best student each year.

* Take a stroll and picnic by the river

* Visit the 150 year old Pulpería San Gervasio, a traditional bar where Gauchos went and still go to relax after a hard day’s work

* Go to the modern cinema or the theatre 

* Treat yourself to dessert from one of the town’s four ice cream stores

* For 15 pesos, you can play 9 holes of golf at Tapalqué Golf Club. For a small  
additional fee, you can also rent clubs and other equipment.

 * Internet Café: Check your email, send faxes, make phone calls, etc

(50KM from Estancia La Margarita)

On December 16, 1832 Azul was founded by Colonel Pedro Burgos and was declared an official city in 1895. Due to its good soil and the mildness of the climate, the town’s principal industries are agriculture and cattle breeding. Azul is one of the wealthiest towns in the Province of Buenos Aires, and the evidence of their success can be seen in the modern quality of the city and its continual growth. Many Scandinavian settlers chose to make their home here, differentiating the Azul population with its blue eyed, blond haired citizens and unique customs. 

Azul is known for its connection to Cervantes. The El Quijote collection found there is largest in the country, and Azul follows Guanajuato, Mexico as the second most important city in America for Cervantes’ relics. The collection includes more than 300 El Quijote illustrations, drafts, and sculptures. Highlights of the exhibit are two 1697 editions from Belgium, an 1812 French edition formerly owned by Queen María Cristina de Borbón, and a rare children’s adaptation commissioned by Walt Disney.

Be sure to also visit the Teatro Español (Spanish Theater), founded in 1897, which offers a variety of cultural performances year-round. Spend the afternoon walking through the 22 hectare municipal park, Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, or escape to the beautiful lake Guemes