Discover the Historical Charm of Balashi Gold Mills
Explore the historical ruins of Balashi Gold Mills in Aruba, where nature meets the legacy of the island's gold mining past.
Balashi Gold Mills, located in the captivating landscape of Aruba, offers tourists a glimpse into the island's rich history and stunning natural beauty. This historical landmark, once a bustling gold mill in the 19th century, now stands as a testament to the island's mining past and provides visitors with scenic views of the surrounding area. A must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, Balashi Gold Mills is not just about the ruins; it's about experiencing Aruba's heritage in a picturesque setting.
A brief summary to Balashi Gold Mills
- F2MG+FJG, Balashi, Oranjestad, Barcadera, AW
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and beautiful lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain may be uneven in some areas.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
- Consider combining your visit with a hike in the nearby Arikok National Park for a full day of exploration.
- Check local guidelines for any visitor restrictions or tours that may be available.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Savaneta, head north on the main road (Wayaca Road) towards Oranjestad. Continue straight for about 2 kilometers. You will pass local shops and restaurants along the way. Keep an eye out for the signs indicating the direction to Balashi. After walking for approximately 30 minutes, you will reach a fork in the road. Stay to the left, following the signs for Balashi. Continue walking for another 1 kilometer until you see the entrance to Balashi Gold Mills on your right.
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Bicycle
If you have access to a bicycle, you can take a more scenic route. Start at the Savaneta waterfront and cycle north along the coast. Follow the path that leads you to Wayaca Road. Once you reach Wayaca Road, turn left and continue for about 3 kilometers. The journey will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Watch for the signs indicating Balashi Gold Mills. When you reach the fork in the road, keep to the left and continue for another 1 kilometer to arrive at Balashi Gold Mills.
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Public Transport
You can take a local bus from Savaneta to Oranjestad. Look for bus route 10, which frequently travels between Savaneta and downtown Oranjestad. The bus ride will take about 20 minutes. Once in Oranjestad, disembark at the bus terminal and catch bus route 1, which goes towards Balashi. This second leg of the journey will take approximately 15 minutes. Get off at the nearest stop to Balashi Gold Mills, and from there, it is a short walk to the historical landmark.
Discover more about Balashi Gold Mills
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