More than 50 stone monoliths engraved with human and animal faces give the Reserva Arqueológica Los Menhires in El Mollar a distinct archaeological profile. Add to that a waterscape framed by mountains at Dique La Angostura, a chapel built from local materials, and several distinct routes. El Mollar therefore combines cultural discoveries with activities on the water and insights into traditional crafts. When planning your trip, it is worth distinguishing between these different interests rather than treating them as interchangeable outings.

Menhirs and Capilla de la Virgen de Covadonga

The Reserva Arqueológica Los Menhires in El Mollar is an open-air museum with more than 50 stone monoliths. Human and animal faces are engraved on the stones; the monoliths were worked more than 2,000 years ago by the inhabitants of the Tafí Valley. Their number and motifs offer two tangible aspects to explore: the size of the collection and the visible work on the stones. Their age also broadens the perspective beyond the individual figures, linking the monoliths to the history of the inhabitants of the Tafí Valley. Those interested in El Mollar’s archaeological side will find a concrete point of interest here.

The Capilla de la Virgen de Covadonga is also located in El Mollar and was built from materials sourced locally. It offers a different focus from the monoliths: its construction using local materials is the main feature, while the Reserva is characterized by worked stones and engraved faces. The two places can therefore be distinguished by their different, tangible features.

At the Dique: Water Sports and Sport Fishing

At Dique La Angostura, the focus shifts to activities on the water. The waterscape framed by mountains is used for windsurfing, and kayak excursions are also offered on the Dique. Sport fishing is another option, especially for pejerrey and trout. These activities appeal to different interests: windsurfing and kayak excursions are water sports, while sport fishing has its own seasonal framework. When fishing, be sure to check the rules for the relevant season, as they can vary. It is therefore a good idea to briefly check the current regulations before you fish.

Routes with Different Focuses

The Sendero Cascada Los Alisos starts in El Mollar and ends at Cascada Los Alisos. The Sendero El Mollar–Tafí del Valle offers a different kind of route: this cycling route is rated moderate to difficult and is recommended for experienced cyclists. Its rating is an important planning consideration if you are considering this option. The Ruta del Artesano is different again: a self-guided tour of El Mollar’s artisan workshops, where visitors can learn about traditional craft techniques. This gives you a choice of distinct approaches: a route with a clearly named destination, a graded cycling route, and an opportunity to discover traditional crafts.

Tailor Your Stay to Your Interests

If you are looking for a hotel in El Mollar, start by deciding what you want to focus on during your trip: would you like to explore the archaeological sites, choose activities at the Dique, or make one of the routes mentioned the centerpiece of your stay?

For the broader travel overview: Departamento Tafí Del Valle.