With their combination of natural attractions, and rich wine, gastronomic, and cultural offerings, the seven Magical Towns of Querétaro have become magnets attracting travelers from all over the country and abroad. In addition to adventure tourism, delighting in the famous Art, Cheese, and Wine Route, learning about the legacy of the Franciscan Missions, and finding inspiration at https://queretaro.travel/, here we present some options to plan a getaway.
BERNAL
Adventure, wellness, and culture
Undoubtedly, the star of this destination is its great monolith, better known as the Peña de Bernal. With the right equipment and under the guidance and supervision of experts, it is possible to practice rock climbing and rappelling. However, other travelers opt to recharge energy by walking around its base. It is essential to admire sites such as the Atarjea, a square where the picturesque Chapel of the Souls and El Castillo are located, a building that stands out for its German clock and currently houses government offices and the Mask Museum.
Note: You must try the broken corn gorditas, nopal en penca, milk sweets, and custards.
CADEREYTA DE MONTES
Always tempting
This Magical Town is considered the gateway to the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro and is an ideal destination for nature tourism. The municipality boasts a great geographical diversity, with a semi-desert climate in the south and forests in the north. In addition, there you can appreciate much of the state’s wealth (landscapes, gastronomy, culture, and traditions). It is mandatory to take a turn around its typical kiosk and learn at the Cadereyta Regional Botanical Garden.
Note: The destination houses the Dr. José Hernández Moreno Planetarium, which has two telescopes. Additionally, the population is considered the “National Chess Capital.”
JALPAN DE SERRA
Jewels to discover
Located in the heart of the Sierra Gorda, Jalpan is home to the five Franciscan missions created by orders of Friar Junípero de Serra. In addition to being a symbol of the last phase of evangelization in Mexico, the work of mestizo baroque is appreciated on its facades, and they were declared Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. It is also an ideal site for nature lovers, as the Jalpan River is surrounded by ahuehuetes that guide trails for walking and horseback or bicycle rides.
Note: Jalpan is immersed in the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, so it is possible to come into contact with nature. No one should leave without trying the serranas enchiladas and oven gorditas.
PINAL DE AMOLES
To admire the sierra Pinal de Amoles offers the opportunity to capture beautiful natural landscapes such as the Puerta del Cielo, so named because, in addition to being one of the highest areas of the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro, this part of the road is flanked by hills, and passing through there gives the sensation of going to infinity. Very close to the Municipal Headquarters of Pinal, the traveler observes one of the most spectacular views of the entire state from the Cuatro Palos Viewpoint.
Note: After walking through the narrow streets where the typical houses with red roofs and balconies abound, you must visit the Pinal de Amoles “General Tomás Mejía” Community Museum.
SAN JOAQUÍN
Beauty and adventure
The sounds of violins and foot tapping resonate around this town. In April, the National Huapango Contest is celebrated, the third most important festival in Mexico, according to the National Institute of Fine Arts. The event brings together several musicians and dancers, and there is nothing like enjoying the choreography, rhythm, costumes, and stage production from the front row.
Note: No one should miss visiting the archaeological zones of Ranas and Toluquilla, as well as the Herrera Cave.
TEQUISQUIAPAN
Winemaking in its splendor
Due to its altitude, climate, and land, this town and its surroundings are ideal for vine growth, and thanks to this, there are several sites for wine tourism. There is nothing better than getting to know the area through the Art, Cheese, and Wine Route. Don’t miss the visit to Los Rosales Vineyards and the Cheese and Wine Museum, where it is possible to learn about the wine world and buy some labels.
Note: From Thursday to Sunday night, in front of Plaza de Armas, a pedestrian walk is held between mansions and alleys of the Cruz neighborhood to hear some legends such as Don Bartolo, Chucho el Roto, or Doña Lucha and her cats, among others. It is important to make a reservation in advance.
AMEALCO DE BONFIL
Enhancing traditions
Founded in 1538 and surrounded by arid valleys and hills, Amealco is known for being the cradle of the Lele doll, a worldwide artisanal symbol. Indeed, a mandatory stop is made at the Handcrafted Doll Museum, where you will admire a collection of more than 300 specimens of various sizes and materials, such as fabric, clay, nopal fiber, wool, and ixtle. In addition, this Magical Town hosts the National Handcrafted Doll Festival. The Parish of Santa María Amealco should also be visited.
Note: The typical drink is pulque or aguamiel, with which the delicious pulque bread is also prepared. It is a tradition that several restaurants in the municipality serve turkey mole every Tuesday.
Source: Reforma
