Touring Activities

The day before yesterday we made an afternoon walk from the marina to the end of the outer mole of the harbor.  Along the way we had another look at the sea lion colony (Sea lions are called "lobos de marinos", or "sea wolves".)  Toward the end of the mole we saw the area used by the enthusiastic local fishermen, then we found our way to the restaurant at the end of the mole for refreshment after our long walk. 

The Water Tower

Yesterday we boarded a bus for a visit to the shopping area along Guemes and Olavarria streets in the Stella Maris section of the city.  We were impressed with the elegance and easy pace of the area.  The stores tended to be specialized, interesting, and very up market.  There were many sidewalk cafes and restaurants.
Brenda and I chose to have lunch at what was the most elegant Subways that we had ever seen.  The premises were in one of the original two story stone houses complete with court yard.  We had our lunch seated in comfortable arm chairs at the bay window watching the pleasant street scene.

Mansion now art gallery

Dining room with flying ducks on wall

We then visited the very special water tower at the top of the Stella Maris hill.  The photos describe the tower better than my words can.  The public is allowed access up the tower in an elevator for panoramic views of the city during week days, and we plan to return.

We then walked to a museum exhibiting the works of painter Juan Carlos Castagnino and others.  Brenda and I were more interested in the setting of the museum: a 4-story mansion of the early 20th century with much of its original furnishings and decorations.

 I must say that Mar del Plata represents as gentle and attractive city to live in as I've seen anywhere in my travels, with its broad and leafy streets and solid stone houses in uncluttered settings. Some residential areas exude "old" wealth and grandeur and grace.