by Nanette Snel

Today we visited Estancia El Galpon, a lovely rustic ranch located on the shores of Lake  Argentino.  We saw a sheep shearing demonstration and enjoyed a guided walk to discover the remarkable local flora and fauna.   We enjoyed the famous Patagonian lamb which was prepared on the BBQ for our lunch.  Delicious!

Upon arrival at the ranch they provided fresh coffee and treats.  The ranch is a lovely place. It’s the end of season, so we are the only ones here!  Again! It is such a lovely spot. Great choice. Went were grateful the rains ended in time for our walk. Everyone enjoyed it but it was cold!   We saw a sheep sheering,  I felt sorry for the sheep as winter is approaching here, he’s going to be a little chilly until his wool grows back. It is Fall and we are one of the last groups. Just fabulous, because they usually have forty people in the morning and again the afternoon.  Today it’s only our group here .We lucked out again!  It was just wonderful.
Anne ate LAMB for the first time and she had seconds!!!, she really enjoyed it. It was cooked to perfection.   A great  day was had by all!

The Argentinians  drink a tea called Mate out of these gourds/leather cups. They all share the same straw. The tea is grown around the Iguazu  Area and is an acquired taste, quite bitter. They Carry these cups, the tea and a thermos everywhere they go. Water has to be at 80 degrees. The gas stations have thermos refill stations at 82. It is a social custom dating back to the settlers Here. We had to give it a try of course!

We saw lots of Animals. Lorece has an ‘eagle eye’ and spotted an eagle, a condor, we saw a skunk, lama’s, horses, cows, hares and lots of  birds!  Photos give an idea of the barren landscape this Side of the mountains.We were lucky the rains stopped. Lots of water everywhere!