As in previous editions, we’d like you to introduce some excellent options for a day trip near and around San Luis Potosí and a perfect example are the Pueblos Mágicos.
As you might remember, Pueblos Mágicos are a distinction some towns and smalls cities obtain due to their uniqueness in symbolism, legends, history, gastronomy, cultural and natural treasures and heritage. Let’s talk about some more Pueblos Mágicos, this time located in both Querétaro and Guanajuato!
- Meet a town that came back to life
Mineral de Pozos, in the state of Guanajuato, is located right in the middle of a semi-desertic area and was buzzing with life and trade several centuries ago, thanks to mining activity in the region. However, in the 1920s the mines were nearly depleted and the inhabitants of Mineral de Pozos started moving elsewhere: as a result it became a ghost town with just a few hundred inhabitants.
Nowadays, Mineral de Pozos has been transformed into one of the best colonial tourism destinations in the region through hard work and creativity. In here, you can visit the ruins of some of the most important mines of the country, the Mina Cinco Señores, San Baldomero and La Nona, to name just a few. Guided tours in and around the mines will give you an idea of Mineral de Pozos’ former glory, as well as its majestic churches, located around the main plaza.
Starry nights and meteor showers are almost a daily occurrence in Mineral de Pozos and it’s romantic restaurants and hotels will surely make for an unforgettable trip with your loved-one. Can’t wait to get there? Mineral de Pozos y located a mere 2 hour drive from San Luis Potosí.
- Dolores Hidalgo, the place where Independence began
On the wee hours of September 16th, 1810, priest Miguel Hidalgo started ringing the bells of his church to call the people to arms by giving a speech named the Grito de Dolores, Cry of Dolores, effectively starting the Mexican Independence War. The war would end 11 years later with the birth of a new nation, and since that September night in 1810, the town of Dolores – now called Dolores Hidalgo – has been called the Cradle of Independence.
It comes as no surprise that Dolores Hidalgo is the perfect destination for anyone interested in knowing more about the origins of our country and the beginning of the fight that led to the independence of the whole Nueva España, from Arizona to Central America.
Museums are located throughout the town and you can even visit Miguel Hidalgo’s home but not before trying some exotic-flavored ice cream in the main plaza. Colonial architecture abounds in Dolores Hidalgo and hostels and boutique hotels are conveniently located around the main plaza in pristinely conserved centuries-old building. Interested in making it a day trip? Dolores is located just two hours away from San Luis!
- Looking for a warm and colorful getaway?
A mere 3 hour drive away from San Luis, located in the heart of Querétaro, you will find Cadereyta de Montes. Founded back in the 17th Century by the Spanish conquerors, Cadereyta will amaze you with great examples of neoclassic and baroque art.
Prepare to take in beautiful sights while walking through the historic center, and admiring the colonial architecture of this Pueblo Mágico. The San Pedro and San Pablo temples are a must see: be delighted by ancient oil paintings and real gold ornaments on the inside, while having intricate and detailed stone-carved designs on the façade.
Museums, parks, and even a planetarium are some other main attractions to check out, not to mention the natural scenery on the outskirts of the town: try imagining a naturally occurring botanical garden, considered a biodiversity oasis full with cacti, agave and even peyote, inhabited by roadrunners, hummingbirds and desert snakes.
Article written by:
Alda María Urbina
Business Bachelor Student
Instagram: @aldaurbina
