Magical Towns are some of the most captivating tourist destinations that Mexico offers to visitors. It’s a formidable experience to stroll through its streets while admiring its beautiful architecture. After you’re done sightseeing, you’ll find a charming terrace or balcony to enjoy its authentic gastronomic proposals. The Baja California Peninsula has three of these Magical Towns, and here’s a guide for your next visit.
Baja California
Baja California is one of the two states that make up the second-longest peninsula in the world. It’s located on the northwestern border of Mexico, bordered to the north by the United States, to the east by the Sea of Cortez, to the west by the Pacific Ocean, and the south by the State of Baja California Sur. Its average annual temperature is 18°C (65°F); from May to September, temperatures reach 30 °C (86°F). Thanks to the particularity of its climate with rains in winter, it has led to the state lands becoming ideal for planting vines.
-Tecate
Tecate is the only Magical Town located on a border; it’s the starting point of the Wine Route, where some of the oldest wineries in the State are located. It’s the place where the world-famous Tecate beer was born and where you can enjoy one of the fabulous jewels of Baja California nature: La Rumorosa. This Magical Town will captivate you with its unique landscapes and natural diversity!
Tecate was part of the San Diego Mission since the eighteenth century. It has a colonial style, landscapes of cattle fields, and impressive mountains and rock formations. If you are looking to relax, Tecate is the ideal place. Home to the Rancho La Puerta spa recognized worldwide. Pamper yourself with a temazcal, a body, or medicinal treatment and rest and relax with specialized wellness services. Practice yoga, relax with clay therapy, and free yourself from stress with a delicious massage.
Tecate joined the Magical Towns program in 2012. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and stone cliffs, Tecate is a picturesque town where you can find handicrafts, enjoy a quiet atmosphere in the Miguel Hidalgo Park and taste the exquisite bakery. Go trekking in La Rumorosa and El Vallecito and visit the Vallecitos Archeological zone.
South Baja California
Seascapes, missions, food, and good wines unite Loreto and Todos Santos, the two Magical Towns of this State. Separated by almost 500 km, both towns have the benevolence of geography bounded by natural areas and stunning waters.
-Loreto
When viewed from afar, from some high point, the Magical Town of Loreto impacts you for many reasons. Loreto retains the tradition of a fishing village, but it’s also cosmopolitan; it’s removed from everything, but there’s much to do; it’s simple, but it’s close to one of the top golf courses in the world. The Sea of Cortez and the Sierra de la Giganta are two of its most precious jewels, boasting colonial missions and cave paintings.
The Loreto Bay National Park is 206,580 hectares, and here you’ll find sea lions, stunning beaches, giant cacti, endemic reptiles, volcanic islands with a mixture of marine sediments, coral reefs, lagoons, and islands. Its pulsating richness attracts nature lovers and those that love kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and canoeing. It houses the gray whale that travels 16,000 kilometers to breed—no wonder this magical destination is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
-Todos Santos
Its magic is in its rustic streets and buildings, family gardens, northern sea and land flavors, and art everywhere. The force of the Pacific Ocean waves makes this destination a hidden treasure for those who want to travel to a beautiful laid back Magical Town.
Surfers from all over the world come to Todos Santos. La Poza, Batequitos, San Pedrito, Cerritos, Punta Lobos and Los Esteros have strong waves and are favorite spots for professional and amateur surfers. Here you’ll find the perfect waves for surfing. You can take surf lessons at almost every hotel in town. You’ll find your surfer kit: board, wetsuit, keels, inventions (ropes), paraffin, and sunscreen. Enjoy spectacular waves at dawn on the beaches of San Pedrito or Cerritos and stay there in a camp. Collaborate in turtle nesting areas and enjoy the bohemian beach atmosphere.
The Magical Towns of Mexico are points of great historical and cultural relevance that can connect visitors with this beautiful country’s roots, customs, and traditions. Book your next trip to any of these destinations for a clearer and more detailed picture of Mexico and its roots.