Discovering Guanajuato: A Hidden Gem of Mexico

This lesser-known region of Mexico offers a mix of adventure, wellness, and culture for every type of traveler. This was supposed to be a story about a place – about Guanajuato, a region that encompasses Guanajuato City and
San Miguel de Allende, two UNESCO World Heritage sites in Mexico’s central highlands region. I envisioned myself meandering around the colonial-era cities, weaving in and out of its kaleidoscopic streets, exploring its many historic monuments, and of course, indulging in tacos, chilaquiles, enchiladas slathered in salsa roja and verde, and sugar-dusted churros. That culinary experience would involve dunking, then twirling each churro into chocolate sauce. I also pictured myself sampling tequila straight from the agave fields, while anticipating stepping out of my comfort zone during an exhilarating temazcal ceremony and an ATV tour in the mountains, both of which were on the agenda for the week. As these dreams unfolded, it became apparent that my journey would be transformative.

El Alma de la Cocina Experience

On a Sunday afternoon, our oversized van bobbed back and forth, navigating the bumpy, cobbled roads in Corralejo de Hidalgo, a hacienda located in the sunbaked town of Penjamo. Only an hour and a half from Guanajuato City and two hours from bustling San Miguel de Allende, this hidden gem was devoid of tourist congestion; instead, we shared the streets with a well-behaved herd of cows, providing ample photo opportunities.

Our destination was El Alma de la Cocina, an unpretentious restaurant dedicated to preserving traditional cuisine using fresh ingredients harvested from the on-site farm. Seated beneath guava trees and engulfed in the sounds of vibrant Mexican music, Alma, the culinary mastermind behind the restaurant, welcomed us into an exquisite multicourse feast that left our taste buds singing with delight. From refreshing guava juice and hearty xoconostle soup with corn to delectable fritters topped with tomato jam, the experience felt intimate and homely, enhanced by friendly dogs wandering about.

Tequila Distillery Tour

Earlier in the day, we explored a nearby tequila distillery and agave farm to uncover the remarkable life cycle of tequila—from its humble beginnings as a plant to its final bottled form. While Jalisco is often celebrated as the home of tequila, Penjamo offered its own surprising spirit making experience.

At Rancho El Coyote, an extensive agave ranch run by the Hernandez family, we were met with a beautiful landscape of agave plants, stretching back to towering mountains. The first impressions were breathtaking and merited numerous photos. The owners graciously shared their history, inviting us to taste their locally crafted tequila, including unique varieties not found in the U.S.

Temazcal Ceremony

In addition to culinary experiences, the region also excels in wellness. The temazcal ceremony, rooted in pre-Hispanic tradition, intrigued me enough to seek out Ce-kalli Temazcal & Spa in Silao, just an hour from Guanajuato City. Led by a shaman, participants undergo several heated sessions aimed at cleansing the body and mind— an ambitious task for anyone, especially someone like me, used to the fast-paced life of New York City.

As the ceremony unfolded, each round brought me closer to tranquility. After emerging from the sweat lodge, I felt rejuvenated, reinvigorated by the fresh air surrounding me, reminding me of the beauty and healing powers of nature. This experience demonstrated the potential for travel to introduce one to new customs that can enhance personal mindfulness.

Adventures in San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende, a picturesque city situated about 150 miles from Mexico City, is famed for its colorful colonial Spanish architecture, charming streets, and vibrant culinary scene. After exploring this UNESCO-designated destination, it was time for some adventure. I opted to rent an ATV with San Miguel Parque de Aventura and tackle the mountainous terrains surrounding the city. The thrilling two-hour sunset drive culminated with breathtaking views from the city’s highest point.

For those seeking aerial adventures, zip-lining and hot-air balloon excursions are also available for a stunning bird’s-eye view of the region.

Cultural Explorations in Guanajuato City

Guanajuato City, another charming UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a vibrant cultural landscape. Known for its mining history and colorful streets, it offers numerous museums, theaters, and lively plazas. The International Cervantino Festival, a celebration of arts, performs all over the city, offering visitors rich cultural experiences.

Walking through the compact, walkable streets of Guanajuato immerses visitors into local life. The influx of students from the local university keeps the cafes and markets vibrant, offering a unique experience distinct from other tourist-heavy regions.

Local Voices of Guanajuato

Gabriel Alcaraz, a seasoned tour guide, shares that Guanajuato is a place that retains the essence of historical Mexico while incorporating modern amenities. This creates a unique atmosphere where visitors can indulge in authentic experiences like a delightful chocolate-and-mezcal pairing session at Xocola-T, a boutique known for its exquisite truffles.

Through tasting rituals, visitors discover the intricate flavors of local delicacies and the passion behind them, celebrating the regional culture through its gastronomy. The heart of this region emanates from its people, their traditions, and the profound connections formed through culinary and artistic experiences.