AROUND THE GLOBE: Patagonia, the Romance of the Gauchos

Argentina. The 800 000 kms of Patagonia's rich pampas lands stretch out as far as the eye can see. Thanks to Caroline Codo, a doctor whose commanding presence belies her gentle nature, Stéphane Peyron is able to enter into the harsh and secretive world of the Gauchos. Many stories are told about these solitary men, who are never separated from their horses, and who ceaselessly survey their herds. Caroline takes Stéphane to Santa Teresita, situated on one of the largest ranches in the region, at the moment when the sheep are brought in for the annual shearing. By spending a great deal of time with the Gauchos - generally believed to be aggressive, unfriendly and suspicious of strangers - Stéphane discovers their unparalleled honesty and generosity. He learns with them the pleasure of sitting in a companionable silence, savouring the present moment.