Areguá

Description

Visiting Areguá in Paraguay feels like stepping into a place where creativity and tradition intertwine effortlessly. Located just 28 kilometers from Asunción, Areguá is more than the capital of Central Department—it’s a living canvas of colonial architecture, inviting cobblestone streets, and vibrant artistry. The town is most famous for its hand-crafted pottery, charming strawberry fields, and festivals that burst with local flavor.

As you wander through Areguá, you quickly notice it’s a haven for artists and artisans. Colorful ceramics line street stalls, and old colonial buildings seem to whisper stories of the past; their faded facades are impossibly photogenic. The main street is lined with shops run by local families, each one with a story to tell. Cafés and food stalls always seem to have something with strawberries—fresh berries in season, homemade jams, and the town’s beloved strawberry cakes.

Lago Ypacaraí sits at the town’s edge, adding another layer to the experience. Whether you’re into history, art, landscapes, or culinary treats, Areguá offers a blend that’s genuinely unique in Paraguay. And if you ask around, you’ll probably hear about local legends, literary inspiration, and the friendly ghosts rumored to wander its oldest quarters!

Key Features

• Pottery and Ceramic Workshops: Artisans in Areguá are famed across Paraguay for their pottery skills. You can browse and buy unique hand-painted pieces, and even try your hand at the wheel in certain studios.
• Strawberry Festival: Every June to September, the town transforms during strawberry season. Farmers set up along the roads with stands brimming with strawberries, and there are food festivals where everything from cakes to shakes features the local berry.
• Colonial Architecture: Many structures date to the late 19th and early 20th centuries—the post office, the church of La Candelaria, and charming houses with red tiled roofs and wrought-iron balconies.
• Calle del Pottery (Walk of the Pottery): Rows of artist stalls run along the main cobblestone street with all sorts of ceramics, sculptures, and clay décor—arguably the best place in Paraguay to pick up souvenirs.
• Lago Ypacaraí: This lake has a mythical aura for many Paraguayans, inspiring songs and poetry. There are lakeside parks, picnic areas, and even boat rides available, making it great for a relaxing afternoon.
• Artisan Markets: In addition to ceramics, you’ll find locally made crafts, paintings, jewelry, and homemade strawberry jams—perfect for tasting or gifting.
• Literary and Art Scene: As a UNESCO Creative City, Areguá hosts art exhibitions, literary events, and open-air performances that give you a sense of Paraguay’s creative pulse.

Best Time to Visit

While Areguá is pleasant year-round, timing your visit with the strawberry season (June through September) is especially rewarding. During these months, the roadside stalls overflow with strawberries, and the local festival transforms even the air with a sweet scent. The weather is cooler, which is perfect for wandering the streets or exploring nearby nature spots.

If you prefer a quieter experience, the months just before and after the strawberry festival are ideal. The lake is serene, the historic center less crowded, and you can still enjoy pottery workshops and local fare. Weekends can get busy with local families from Asunción coming for day trips, so if you value tranquility, aim for weekdays.

How to Get There

Reaching Areguá is straightforward and part of the fun. From Asunción, the drive takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on city traffic. You simply follow the Ruta 2 southeast, then branch off at the well-marked turn for Areguá. If you’re not driving, public buses regularly connect the city center to Areguá, and are an affordable option. Look for services heading to “Areguá” or “Itauguá,” and let the driver know your stop; the bus station is right near the town’s center.

Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also reliable and cost-effective, especially if you’re traveling in a group. Cycling enthusiasts sometimes make the journey on bikes—there are some scenic routes, but keep in mind Paraguayan roads can be unpredictable.

Once you arrive, the best way to explore is on foot. The main attractions are clustered around the historic center and the lakeside. For further adventures (like inland strawberry farms or more rural workshops), local cabs or moto-taxis are available and inexpensive.

Tips for Visiting

• Wear comfortable shoes: The cobblestone streets, while beautiful, can be tough on the feet by the end of the day. Sandals or walking shoes with good grip are a solid choice.
• Cash is king: Many artisans and vendors accept cash only, especially at street markets or roadside stalls—plan ahead and bring smaller bills.
• Try the local strawberry treats: Even outside festival season, cafés offer strawberry tarts and fresh juices. My favorite is the simple “frutilla con crema” (strawberries and cream); it’s delicious after a sunny stroll.
• Photography: The play of light on colonial façades and the lakeside at sunset are magical. Bring a camera or charge your phone—early morning and late afternoon offer the best shots.
• Respect privacy: Many workshops and private homes are open to visitors, but it’s polite to ask before taking photos inside or around artists at work.
• Check local events: Areguá’s calendar is packed with fairs, concerts, and art shows. Ask at the tourist information point, or peek at notice boards around the main plaza to avoid missing something unique.
• Lake caution: Swimming may look tempting in Lake Ypacaraí, but it’s not currently recommended due to water quality. Stick to enjoying the view, boat rides, or lakeside picnics.
• Visit the church of La Candelaria: Besides its beauty, it’s a peaceful spot for a quiet moment and a lovely place to appreciate Areguá’s slower pace of life.
• Practice some Spanish: While some merchants know basic English, the experience is richer if you try out a few phrases in Spanish; locals appreciate the effort!

Areguá is a world apart from the bustle of Paraguay’s bigger cities. Its combination of art, history, local flavors, and the ever-present scent of strawberries makes it an experience you just have to savor slowly. Every corner seems to have another story waiting to be discovered—you only need to give yourself time to wander and explore.