Just a short drive from Asunción, lies Areguá, the picturesque capital of Paraguay’s Central Department. Nestled on the shores of Lake Ypacaraí, this town feels like a pause in time, a place where colonial charm, artisanal traditions, and natural beauty converge in a delicate balance. Though only 28 kilometres from Asunción, stepping into Areguá is like entering a different rhythm. One that invites visitors to slow down, breathe, and truly see.
Areguá is not just a destination; it is an experience. From the cobbled streets and colourful colonial houses to the aromas of freshly harvested fruits and pottery workshops, every corner tells a story. Areguá is a town that has preserved its character over centuries. Blending its rich history with a vibrant present, making it one of Paraguay’s most treasured escapes.
A heritage carved in clay
Areguá is best known for its artisanal tradition, particularly pottery, which has been practised here for generations. Walking through the historic centre, the earthy scent of wet clay greets you at every workshop. Shelves overflow with handmade pieces; rustic, imperfect, yet captivatingly beautiful. Each piece carries the story of the artisan, their family, and the land itself.
Local artisans often invite visitors into their workshops, sharing not only their craft but also stories of family, tradition, and dedication. Some offer short lessons, allowing travellers to experience the meditative process of shaping clay. Pair this with a refreshing tereré (the traditional Paraguayan herbal drink), and you are not just observing art; you are participating in a living cultural legacy.
The magic of Lake Ypacaraí
Lake Ypacaraí, a central feature of Areguá, is more than just a scenic backdrop. Celebrated in Paraguayan folklore, music, and poetry, it reflects the sky in shades of gold, pink, and violet at sunset, creating moments of almost surreal beauty. Locals and visitors alike gather along its shores to enjoy the tranquility, whether sharing stories, sipping tereré, or simply letting the breeze wash over them.
The lake is also the muse behind the famous song “Recuerdos de Ypacaraí”, a melody that has become synonymous with Paraguayan identity. Walking along its edge, you can almost feel the layers of history, the generations of families, travellers, and storytellers who have found solace and inspiration in its waters.
A town woven with stories
The charm of Areguá extends far beyond its lake. Its cobbled streets, colonial houses, and quiet plazas invite exploration and discovery. Each alley reveals surprises: a mural peeking from a doorway, a courtyard exploding with bougainvillea, or a hidden terrace offering panoramic views of the town and lake. There is a sense that the town rewards curiosity, that every turn could lead to a story waiting to be told.
A short walk outside the historic centre brings you to Cerro Koi, a geological marvel of hexagonal sandstone columns. Standing atop the hill, the town unfolds below, the lake glimmers beyond, and the horizon stretches wide. It is a place of inspiration, a natural amphitheater where photographers, painters, and dreamers alike find their muse.
Even beyond the streets and hills, Areguá surprises with quiet trails through farms and orchards. During harvest season, the town’s strawberries; bright, sweet, and fragrant, give Areguá a unique identity. Vendors sell them freshly picked, in jams, or in desserts that celebrate their vibrant red colour and unmistakable aroma.
Areguá for every traveller
Areguá has something for everyone. Solo travellers seeking reflection, couples craving romantic escapes, families looking for gentle adventure, and content creators searching for aesthetic inspiration all find their niche. The town encourages a slow pace, inviting visitors to engage fully with the sights, sounds, and flavours around them.
Weekends bring a lively energy. Local artists display their works in open-air markets, musicians fill the streets with impromptu concerts, and the air is fragrant with fresh flowers and, for some months, strawberries. Even in this vibrant atmosphere, the town retains a calm, balanced rhythm that feels almost therapeutic, a delicate dance between life and stillness.
Practical Guide: making the most of your visit to Areguá
- Location: Capital of the Central Department, 28 km from Asunción
- Best times to visit: sunrise or sunset for lake views; weekends for artisan markets and festivals
- Must-see spots: Cerro Koi, Historic Centre, pottery workshops, lake viewpoints, strawberry farms
- Ideal for: photographers, couples, families, solo travellers, and anyone seeking a slow, immersive escape
For an immersive experience, spend a weekend in Areguá. Whether discovering Paraguay for the first time or returning to experience its depth, Areguá stands as a living reminder that the most memorable journeys are those where we allow ourselves to feel fully, deeply, and joyfully.
This article was written by Maximiliano Nunez for The Asunción Times’ 2025 Writing Competition.
