Around the destination of General Belgrano, the Río Salado, nature trails and cultural sites are among the main attractions to explore. Options range from a five-kilometre riverside promenade and trips on the water to the Bosque Encantado nature reserve. You can choose the focus of your stay based on whether you would rather explore landscapes and trails or learn about local history and enjoy riverside recreation areas.
Natural and Cultural Heritage at Bosque Encantado
Bosque Encantado is a 23-hectare nature reserve with more than 88 species of centuries-old plants. The history of Estancia Santa Narcisa is also part of the site: trails lead to the former main house, an old mansion in the centre of the woods. It now houses the Museo de las Estancias. The plant life and the former estancia building give Bosque Encantado two distinct facets.
Bosque Encantado was given its name in 1968 by journalist Don Justo Piernes. Those interested in the history of the site can connect the origin of its name with the former main house of the estancia. The trails to the building are part of the landscape described here; the museum itself is housed in the former mansion.
Getting Your Bearings Along the Río Salado
The city of General Belgrano lies on the banks of the Río Salado. High riverbanks and water-management structures such as a lock system are part of the river landscape. A five-kilometre riverside promenade runs from the CEF canoe school to the new northern bathing area, between locks 1 and 2. The “Viejo” and “Nuevo” bathing areas are located along this stretch. Balneario Viejo extends from the pedestrian bridge to the area known as “arroyito”.
These location details help distinguish the riverside areas: the promenade describes a longer route with specific endpoints, while Balneario Viejo is defined by its own boundaries. The municipal campground is located between the “Viejo” and “Nuevo” bathing areas. It has a barbecue area as well as an area for fishing for pejerrey and carp.
On the Water and Along Country Trails
Leisure trips by pedal boat are possible on the Río Salado. Canoe and kayak excursions can be booked with professional guidance throughout the trip; they are suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Horse rides in General Belgrano are also suitable for different experience levels: both experienced riders and people who have never ridden before can take part.
Rural cycling routes offer a different experience. They follow country roads, passing old railway stations and mature tree-lined avenues, as well as running along the banks of the Río Salado. Bicycles and quadricycles are also available for rides in the city. The activities described differ not only in their mode of transport: canoe and kayak excursions include professional guidance, horse rides are open to people with no riding experience, and rural routes are characterised by their trails and the scenery along the way.
Local History and Attractions
The city’s Cine-Teatro is housed in a building commissioned by the Sociedad Española in 1928. The building’s history links a specific year and a named builder to its current function as a Cine-Teatro. The palaeontology room offers a different cultural connection: it displays some of the fossil material found in the ravines of the Río Salado.
Parque Recreativo La Isleña has an area in its tourist riverside zone where artisans, producers and business owners offer their products. This adds an opportunity to discover local businesses alongside the historical and palaeontological themes.
A Guide to Bathing and Recreation Areas
Balneario Nuevo covers about five hectares. Its facilities include basketball, football and volleyball courts, cafés, a barbecue area and an Olympic-size swimming pool. Together with the two bathing areas and the campground, it forms a hub for waterside recreation. If you are planning a visit to the bathing areas or campground, it is advisable to check the current conditions in advance.
Another local attraction is Termas del Salado. On Avenida Intendente Ferrer and Camino de la Rivera, highly mineralised hydrothermal water at 41°C flows from a borehole almost a thousand metres deep.
Discover more destinations: General Belgrano, San Pedro Partido, General Alvarado Partido, Navarro Partido, Bolívar Partido, Pinamar Partido, Moreno Partido, Patagones Partido.
For the broader travel overview: Buenos Aires.
