
To get to Gaiman from Trelew take 28 de Julio bus by loading a transportation card. With buses coming about once every hour. Our visit to Gaiman was one of our favorite day trips in Patagonia. We enjoyed it so much we decided to come back a second day which will be an episode coming out soon.
Welsh Teahouse for Afternoon Tea in Argentina:
Te house Ty Gwyn
Address: 9 de Julio 111, Gaiman, Chubut
Hours: Monday to Sunday 2-7PM
Phone: 0280 449-1009
🏞️ Gaiman, Patagonia: Exploring Welsh Heritage, Museums & the Ultimate Afternoon Tea Experience 🇦🇷🍰
🚍 Arrival in Gaiman: Scenic Route & Getting Around
The day begins with a scenic bus ride from Trelew to Gaiman, a journey that surprises the hosts with its length (45 minutes, not 15!), but rewards them with beautiful rural Patagonian landscapes.
Practical tip: Getting to Gaiman requires a rechargeable transit card (85 pesos, non-refundable), with each journey costing 45 pesos. Opt for the bus along Route 7 for the most picturesque ride. Buses run roughly every hour, though schedules aren’t always posted.
🏰 Town Walk & Historic Sights
Upon arrival, the hosts start their adventure at the Mirador Gaiman, a lookout point that offers panoramic views of the town.
They stroll along the Chubut River, learning about the Welsh settlers’ impressive irrigation canals and the river’s role in developing the area’s agriculture.
A “puppy friend” joins for part of the walk, adding a dose of local charm!
🍽️ Pub Lunch with a Welsh-Patagonian Twist
Lunchtime brings a visit to a central pub with a Welsh dragon on the sign. The meal is delicious and hearty: pumpkin sorrentinos in leek sauce with almonds, and a rich, cheesy pumpkin soup—perfect for a day of exploring.
The hosts note that traditional Welsh dishes are rare on local menus, but the fusion with Argentine ingredients is delightful.
🚂 Through the Tunnel of History
Next, the hosts walk through the historic Ferrocarril Central de Chubut railway tunnel, built in 1914 after locals insisted the train run outside town for peace and quiet. The tunnel features info points and a short film (with Welsh subtitles) about the railway’s role in Patagonia.
🏛️ Museums: Indigenous & Welsh Heritage
The first stop is the Anthropological Museum, housed in a brick mansion and dedicated to the Mapuche people and their relationship with Welsh settlers. Tours are guided and information is in Spanish.
Next up, the Welsh Regional Museum inside the old train station. Here, the hosts learn about the Eisteddfod—a festival of Welsh music and poetry that’s central to local culture.
Both museums offer guided, highly interactive experiences—so much so that filming is minimal while conversations with passionate staff take center stage.
☕ Welsh Afternoon Tea at Ty Gwyn: The Star of Gaiman
The afternoon is dedicated to an unforgettable Welsh tea at Ty Gwyn, one of the many local tea houses. For $14 USD per person, the spread is immense: buttered breads, cheese sandwiches, scones, and six varieties of homemade cakes.
Jam highlight: Strawberry and fig—each with a unique, delicious flavor.
Cake tasting includes Torta Negra (a rich, raisin- and walnut-filled brown sugar cake), a decadent cream pie (like clotted cream in pie form!), strawberry crumble, apple pie packed with fruit, and a raspberry-cream-jello slice. Each bite is described in mouthwatering detail.
Pro tip: Come very hungry (or skip lunch) because the portions are enormous!
🏡 Touring the First House in Gaiman
The last major stop is the first house in Gaiman, built in 1874 by Welsh pioneers David Roberts and Jemima Jones. Guided tours (available in English) showcase original furnishings and artifacts from the family, bringing the story of early settlement to life.
💬 Final Thoughts: A Full Day in Gaiman
The hosts reflect on a packed day of walking, history, and food—having visited three museums, explored historic sites, enjoyed a cozy lunch, and sampled a spectacular Welsh tea.
They recommend spending a day (or even a night) in Gaiman to fully appreciate its underrated blend of Patagonian and Welsh culture.
The town’s relaxed vibe, friendly locals, and immersive heritage make it a must for anyone exploring Chubut or the Welsh-Argentine legacy.
WELSH TOWN in Patagonia, Argentina + Welsh AFTERNOON TEA at Ty Gwyn in GAIMAN Chubut 🍰
BLOGS