Protected by a cove on the Golfo Nuevo Puerto Madryn is best
known as a gateway to the wildlife sanctuary of Peninsula Valdes. Founded by
Welsh immigrants in 1865, the town takes its name from Love Parry, Baron of Madryn.
The beaches here attract residents of Buenos Aires looking for a quick getaway,
while tourists flock here to catch a glimpses of the towns biggest attraction,
Right Whales. Puerto Madryn is the second largest fishing port in the country
and is home to Argentina’s first aluminum plant. Outside of the city is the Welsh
Village of Gaiman where they serve Welsh tea. The climate here is dry and arid.
There are only about three inhabitants per square kilometer.
We had been here before in 2010 when we took a 14 day cruise
from Buenos Aires to Santiago. So, we did what we did last time, we got off and
walked around. It is a nice size city that is very clean. It has lots of
restaurants, bar, gift shops etc. The weather could not be better, it was in
the 70s and gorgeous, after the time we have spent in the cold weather.
You could take a shuttle from the ship to the gate, or you
could walk, about 1.2 mile. We decided to walk. As you walk down the dock you
can see the Golfo Nuevo. At this time the tide is out and the sand goes a long
ways toward the open water. It is a very pretty beach.
Once you finally get off of the dock, there is a lovely
walkway along the beach. Here is how their lifeguards function.
Parallel to this walkway is one that runs along the street.
On the water side of this sidewalk are trees that are apparently dead, but they
have made them into work of art. There is also a picture of this adorable
preschool class taking an excursion. We had seen them up the block earlier
touring a fire engine.
We then crossed over, did a little window shopping and
stopped for a beer at Peppers Rock and Chop (do not know what that means). As
we were sitting there this enormous “bus” went by. It looks like a touring
coach and attached to it is their sleeping and eating quarters. Quite a site.
We then went back through the park to get back to the ship.
We left early from this port, we had to be on by 2:30 PM. On the way there were
these two small canons (I guess this is why they lost the Falklands (Malvinas)
War), that a friend of ours took our picture at.
Then the walk back down the dock and a view down the dock from
our room.
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