Villa General Belgrano

Introducing Villa General Belgrano

More a cultural oddity than a full-blown tourist attraction, Villa General Belgrano flaunts its origins as a settlement of unrepatriated survivors from the German battleship Graf Spee, which sank near Montevideo during WWII.

The annual Oktoberfest (elevated in 1972 to status of Fiesta Nacional de la Cerveza; National Beer Festival; see in Spanish), held during the first two weeks of October, draws beer lovers from all over the world. In summertime, the village slowly fills with holidaymakers enjoying the tranquil streets and evergreen-dotted countryside. Unless you’re really excited about microbrew beer, torta selva negra (black forest cake) and goulash, Villa General Belgrano makes a fine day trip from Córdoba or nearby La Cumbrecita. Despite its decidedly Germanic flavor, you’d be lucky to hear any of the modern-day inhabitants speaking the language of the old country.

For an overview of the town, make your way up the tower (admission AR$1; 9am-8pm) ­attached to the tourist office.

The tourist office (461215; www.vgb.gov.ar; Plaza José Hernández; 8am-8:30pm) is on the main strip.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009