Enchanting traditions and authentic beauty are some words to describe the charming Pueblo Mágicos of Mexico. Though the most popular of Mexico’s tourist destinations are the coastal areas of Puerto Vallarta, Cancun and Cabo San Lucas, the various villages and towns that make up Mexico’s collection of curated Pueblo Mágicos have their own unique appeal and charm that never fail to get the nod of its visitors. Stunning beaches and lots of water activities attract tourists to Mexico, but there’s no denying that there are magical towns that speak of the country’s rich culture, traditions and history.
What are Pueblos Mágicos?
A program that was started in 2001 by the Mexican government, the Pueblos Magicos initiative aims to give credit and promotion to the different villages and towns that showcase Mexico’s natural wonders, diverse cultures and great history. Visiting Pueblos Mágicos is both educational and entertaining as it lets you discover the reality behind Mexico’s real treasures such as its lovely landscape and kind hearted people.
San Sebastián del Oeste, Puerto Vallarta’s Pueblo Mágico
You’ll fall in love with this place because of its hidden charm, simple ways and extraordinary mass appeal. San Sebastian del Oeste, is just over an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta, less than a hundred kilometers (65 miles) away, and is the closest Pueblo Mágico to Puerto Vallarta followed by Mascota, which was granted the Pueblo Mágico status in 2015. San Sebastián del Oeste was established in 1605 as a mining town, where silver and other metals were mined to be sent back to Spain.
What to do in this Pueblo Mágico?
You’ll never feel bored with the various activities that will keep you on your feet. It’s a perfect getaway haven for those who want to simply escape the hustle and bustle of Puerto Vallarta. Sightseeing options abound with old buildings and structures constructed out of the mining era’s impressive architecture. It has a plaza where large tourist groups converge and make their way towards tree rich roads down to a little stream that exudes serenity. Go to Cerro de la Bufa if you want to be a witness to a very romantic sunset that sees the sun getting lost to a myriad of blues that is the ocean. A coffee lover’s place is the Quinta Mary where a cup of rich coffee can give you the needed boost and where the organic production process takes place.
Tranquility and that Olde-worlde charm
The tranquillity and calm of San Sebastian will make you feel like a time traveler, taking you back to its yesteryears where you can imagine what life was like before electricity and modernity. With only about 600 local left from what was once a bustling town of over 20,000 inhabitants, to some it seems like a picturesque ghost town. The town’s locals are very accommodating people, who will make you feel at home, so it’s better to sit back and enjoy everything that comes across your way.
San Sebastian is a must visit place when vacationing to Puerto Vallarta, especially if you are staying for longer periods of time and wish to explore the “real Mexico.” A lot of exploration tours happen every day and they’ll give you a feel of the magical touch that this lovely Pueblo Magico is known for not far from Puerto Vallarta.