A change of location shaped the history of Fortín Mercedes: the first fort was built in 1833 by order of Juan Manuel de Rosas and named Fortín Colorado. After a flood, it was moved to its present site in 1858; in 1966, the Argentine Army rebuilt it. The Complejo Fortín Mercedes offers a historical walk close to nature along the banks of the Río Colorado. Here, two sides of the place meet: its past as a fort and the riverside landscape.

History and Cultural Traces

Paseo La Chimenea also connects local history with another use: the green space developed from a site with a ruin and brings together history and religion. The first factory in Villarino Partido to produce tomato extract once stood here.

Casona de San Adolfo is a residence built for the Luro family in the early 20th century. Its French Neoclassical style, 26 rooms, and status as a municipal historic monument make it a distinctive part of the architectural heritage. Estación Nicolás Levalle offers a different perspective on local life: the railway station was converted into a museum, cultural center, and tea salon. Exhibitions there explore salt production, local life, and rural culture. Villa Pajarito, near the station, also offers birdwatching opportunities and a themed space.

The Museo Regional y Misionero Padre Juan Edmundo Vecchi preserves historical objects related to the educational, evangelizing, and missionary work of the Salesian Congregation founded by Don Bosco. Its collection includes more than 6,000 botanical, zoological, and mineralogical objects from the region. Religious and historical memorial sites reveal other facets of the Partido: Ermita de Ceferino Namuncurá was inaugurated in 2000 and contains a statue of the saint. Sinagoga de Médanos is a provincial monument associated with the first Jewish settlers who arrived in the town at the beginning of the 20th century. The historic Divisadero de Rosas lookout is linked to Juan Manuel de Rosas’s First Expedition into the Desert; visits require permission from the Salesian institution.

Lagoons, Coast, and Trails

In Villarino Partido, expansive plains meet the Atlantic coast, lagoons, salt flats, and the irrigated valley of the Río Colorado. Laguna Chasicó adds a distinctive elevation: it lies 21 meters below sea level. Because of its size and the natural diversity of its flora and fauna, it is designated a provincial nature reserve; it is also known for abundant pejerrey fishing. Near Nicolás Levalle, Salinas Chicas offer a different landscape, with large stretches of water and white salt. Salt is still actively extracted there.

At Balneario La Chiquita, expansive beaches, clear water, and large dunes define the unspoiled surroundings. The area is especially known for fishing and water sports. Lago Parque La Salada offers different options: a signposted nine-kilometer trail can be explored on foot, by bicycle, or by vehicle. Swimming, windsurfing, and kitesurfing are possible at the lake. These two waterside landscapes offer different experiences and activities, without any one experience representing the whole Partido.

Termas de Médanos also combines nature and activities: the 18-hectare site is wooded and surrounded by nature and wildlife. Facilities include indoor swimming pools and an artificial thermal lake that can be explored on foot or by kayak. Distinct from this is Termas de Luro Hotel Spa, whose 70°C water is valued for its mineral composition and associated therapeutic effects.

Wine, Regional Products, and Getting There

Two different visits offer insights into the production of regional products. The vineyards of Bodega y Viñedos Al Este cover 25 hectares; the tour includes every stage of production and ends with tastings. Sabor Pampeano offers a tour of the farm and growing areas, tastings, and information about the artisanal production of its products.

In Pedro Luro, the historic railway bridge over the Río Colorado is a scenic spot with panoramic views and birdwatching opportunities. The RN 22 and RN 3 are relevant routes for reaching the Partido; Transporte El Villarino is listed as a bus service. When planning, you might first consider whether you would rather focus on historic places, landscapes and bodies of water, or visits centered on wine and regional products.

Discover more destinations: Pedro Luro, Castelli Partido, General Lamadrid, Mercedes Partido, Las Flores Partido, Chivilcoy Partido, General Viamonte Partido, Chacabuco.

For the broader travel overview: Buenos Aires.