Regional routes: towns to visit in Jalisco

Any tour we propose to you through the towns to visit in Jalisco must be very aware of the so-called magical towns of MexicoThis is a group of towns that, due to their nature, monuments, culture, and cuisine, offer special attractions for tourism.

Precisely, Jalisco It is one of the states with the largest number of towns within this denomination. As you know, we are talking about one of the 31 states that make up Mexico and is located in the west of the country, bathed by the Pacific Ocean. Its capital is Guadalajara, which has over a million inhabitants, although its metropolitan area reaches five. It is also very important in Mexican culture. In fact, three of its most characteristic elements originate there. of tequila, mariachi and jaripeo or charro equestrian demonstrations. Without further ado, let's get to know some of the best towns to visit in Jalisco.

Mazamitla

Located southeast of Jalisco, is precisely one of the magical towns we were talking about. It is also a perfect destination for mountain lovers, as it is located in the Sierra del TigreIn fact, the area has been named after it as "the Mexican Switzerland".

One of the most spectacular routes is the one that goes to the hill of the same name, from which you have impressive views of the Fuego Volcano of ColimaYou can also go to the Salto waterfall, with a waterfall of about thirty-five meters.

But this one, which is located about one hundred and thirty-six kilometers from Guadalajara, is a marvel in itself. Its old town, with its cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses and wooden balconies, is truly beautiful. Also, in the main square is the Church of San Cristobal, built in the mid-20th century. Its towers are very interesting, showing the influence of Chinese architecture.

Tapalpa

This town of six thousand inhabitants is also one of the best towns to visit in Jalisco. It is also characterized by its white houses with red gabled roofs. But, above all, it stands out because in its vicinity is the Media Luna Estate, which, according to experts, inspired Juan Rulfo to write his immortal novel Pedro Paramo.

However, we haven't finished listing the wonders of this town yet. Characteristic elements of its streets are the traditional battery or communal water sources. Each has its own name. For example, you'll see the Culebras, Tecolote, or La Colorada. Meanwhile, the Church of San Antonio de Padua It was built in the 16th century, while the one in Our Lady of Guadalupe It is more modern, but equally spectacular.

On the other hand, Tapalpa, which means "land of colors", also has a privileged nature. It is surrounded by the great Sierra Madre Occidental, where you have beautiful hiking and horseback riding routes. One of the most impressive is the one that leads to the Salto del Nogal waterfall, with a waterfall of over a hundred meters. However, to do it you must be in good shape, as it is not easy. Even more curious are The Piedrotas or "ball stones", huge cylindrical rocks.

Tequila, a town that couldn't be missed on our tour of the towns to visit in Jalisco

Our route through the towns of Jalisco had to include, by force, Tequila, as its name suggests, it is the birthplace of one of Mexico's most popular products worldwide. Indeed, the eponymous drink was born there from its spectacular agave fields, the plant from which it is made. If you travel to this town, you can visit many artisanal distilleries and, of course, the National Tequila MuseumThere's even a hotel whose rooms mimic giant barrels.

Both the agave landscape and the old Tequila factories are recognized as Cultural Heritage of HumanityThe best places to appreciate the first one are the viewpoints of Teuchitlán, Amatitán and El Arenal. For its part, the best place to enjoy the drink is the main square of the village. Amidst the sounds of mariachi, you will taste the little jugs of tequila, which, in addition to this, contain grapefruit juice and other citrus fruits.

However, the town has other attractions besides its most famous nectar. In this sense, we recommend you visit the church of Santiago Apóstol, built in the 17th century with exposed stone. Furthermore, returning to its nature, it is impressive the Blues waterfall, which is located about fifteen minutes from the town. However, as with Salto del Nogal, access is difficult.

Pet

On our tour of the towns to visit in Jalisco, we now arrive at one of the lesser-known villages. Mascota is also called "The Emerald of the Sierra" for being located in the Mother West. One of its major tourist attractions is Juanacatlán lagoon, which originates from an underground stream and on which boat trips are made. It is different the Molcajete volcano, where there are mountain cycling and hiking routes.

Integrated, like the previous ones, into the magical towns of Jalisco, it also has monuments. In the center of its main square there is a small kiosk Neo-Mudejar style and, on one of its sides, is the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, which was built in the 18th century according to the canons of Baroque. Even more striking is the unfinished temple of the precious blood, dating from the 19th century and surrounded by beautiful gardens.

It is also advisable to visit the State Museum of Archaeology, which has pieces that are more than a thousand years old and a room dedicated to petroglyphs found in the area. But more typical is the Regional Market, where you will find traditional sweets and crafts at very affordable prices.

Chapala

There are also many towns to visit in Jalisco that, although not included among the magical towns, are worth a visit. This is the case of Chapala, which is bathed by the lake that gives it its name and has almost twenty-five thousand inhabitants. In fact, its proximity to Guadalajara It has become a summer resort for many people from Guadalajara.

Any tour of Chapala must begin with its sea ​​wall, the nerve center of village life. From here, you have stunning views of the lake and beautiful sunsets. It is said to have been one of the singer's favorite spots. María Félix and her husband, Enrique Alvarez, who spent their honeymoon in the Jalisco town.

You should also appreciate its old Lighthouse. In addition, at the dock you have boats that take you to the two nearby islands in the lagoon: those of the Scorpions and MezcalaIn the first, you can visit an art center, and in the second, a former prison. Chapala also has other interesting monuments. Its great symbol is the San Francisco church, but, above all, its highlights manor houses from the early 20th century. These include the Bell, Niza, Tlalocán and Montecarlo villas, and the Braniff and Capetillo houses. Finally, we recommend you visit the Town Hall and train station.

Talpa de Allende, the most famous of the towns to visit in Jalisco

We now arrive on our journey to Mole, a town that was already very visited before being included among the magical ones of JaliscoIts popularity was due to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, which houses the image of this Virgin, made by the Tarascan Indians in 1530 and highly venerated by Mexicans. The temple is a beautiful XNUMXth-century building with Baroque features.

It's not the only religious building you should visit in Talpa. The Church of Our Lord Saint Joseph y the chapels of Mineral de El Cuale, Concepción del Bramador and the Resurrection. Also, you have to see the Town Hall and the Mexicana building. But, above all, visit the municipal market, a place full of atmosphere where typical products such as gorditas, sweet fruit roll or chilte, a type of chewing gum made from the sap of the sapodilla tree.

Tlaquepaque

We finish our review of the towns to visit in Jalisco very close to Guadalajara, Specifically TlaquepaqueIt is known as "the pottery village" for its traditional clay and mud craftsmanship that dates back to pre-Columbian times. In fact, it has a Regional Ceramic MuseumHowever, this industry has grown, and you can now find many other types of manufacturing in the town, including jewelry, wood carvings, and textiles.

The nerve center of Tlaquepaque is the Hidalgo Square, where you can see a beautiful kiosk and the two main temples of the town. This is the church of San Pedro Apóstol and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Solitude. Both combine styles such as Gothic and Baroque and, with their bell towers, dominate the view of the town. Finally, visit the old market of The Parian and try the gusqueras, a sort of drinks and sweets.

In conclusion, we have proposed a good number of towns to visit in Jalisco. However, we also recommend others such as San José de los Reynosos, The Chante o The Santa Maria CruiseBut above all, don't forget to visit Guadalajara, the beautiful state capital. Discover all these places.