Are you lucky enough to call Puerto Vallarta your home? Many residents find that living in the Puerto Vallarta paradise is a dream come true. Beautiful beaches, warm weather year round, and an endless amount of activities makes Puerto Vallarta an ideal place to live. Regardless of the idyllic setting, getting out of town every now and then is fun even if your home base is pretty perfect. Wondering what kind of fun weekend getaways you can take if you live in Puerto Vallarta? Check out the small town in the mountains just 1 ½ hours inland from Puerto Vallarta called San Sebastian. A rustic and quaint pueblo, San Sebastian is a great place for a weekend getaway for those living the Puerto Vallarta lifestyle.
Founded in 1605 as a mining town, San Sebastian was originally a hot bed for gold, silver and lead that were mined during the early Spanish colonial Viceroyalty of New Spain period. There were over 25 mines in the area and several foundries by the year 1785. Later in 1812, the town was formally established and reached a population of less than 1000 people by the start of the 21st century. By 1900, there were more than 20,000 people living in the area, but the population swiftly declined after Mexico’s national revolution occured in 1910. Today, only around 500 people still call San Sebastian home.
San Sebastian earned the Pueblo Magico, which means “Magic Town” in English, designation in 2005 due to its historical character and charm. The main church in town is called the Church of Saint Sebastian and was originally constructed in 1608. The Church of Saint Sebastian was designed in the Colonial Spanish Baroque style with remarkable architectural details, Corinthian columns and vaulted ceiling frescoes. Many other structures throughout town were built of stone or adobe in the 18th or 19th centuries, and several local haciendas have been restored in recent years. Tourism is on the upswing in the area and it’s a perfect place for a weekend getaway during the hot and humid summer months in Puerto Vallarta.
There are several cute hotels and vacation rentals in the small town. Whether you are interested in being in the town, or on the outskirts you can find a suitable and affordable vacation rental for your getaway. The Hacienda Jalisco is a popular option for those wanting an authentic San Sebastian experience. The historical Hacienda Jalisco lies just outside of San Sebastian and is surrounded by vegetable fields and gardens. Potrero de Mulas Ecotourism Ranch is another great choice for adventurers with its ecological cabins situated amongst pine forests, streams and profuse trails. Prefer to be in the heart of the action? Mansion Real is centrally located in the historic town center and is reasonably priced.
The Quinta Mary is the place to go for the best organic coffee in the region is produced. Their coffee plantations are fumigated with chili, onion and garlic and they avoid using any pesticides in their crops. The resulting coffee is roasted, ground and packed and they also offer delicious traditional Mexican candies as well. Another must see is the charming central plaza surrounded by beautiful landscaping, restaurants and shops. Want to get the best view around? Head to the El Cerro de la Bufa high above San Sebastian. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Banderas Bay for amazing ocean views.
The most popular cultural event in San Sebastian is held every year on January 20th. The town celebrates its patron saint, San Sebastian, and there is music, dancing, pyrotechnics, horseback riding and cultural activities that attract hundreds of visitors each year. Another popular event is on October 7th when the town honors the Most Holy Virgin of the Rosary of the Real Alto. The Temple of Real del Alto is an ancient construction created in the 17th century and its delicately carved wooden altar is a sight to see.
San Sebastian is a fabulous weekend getaway from Puerto Vallarta where you can enjoy beautiful mountain vistas, a cooler, fresher climate, and small town charm. Make sure you check out this hidden gem, conveniently located just 60 km inland from Puerto Vallarta.
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