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Guanajuato (state), Mexico
Photo: Juan Carlos Fonseca Mata, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Jalpa de Cánovas is a small town in the Bajio region of central Mexico. It's one of the smallest towns to be recognized as a Pueblo Magico, though it does indeed offer considerable attractions for the historical and cultural traveler. It is a scenic colonial town that's a great place for peaceful weekend getaways.
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Temple of the Lord of Mercy
Unusual church built in 1908 in a neo-gothic style using red bricks. The church is famous for its imposing tall bell tower.
Historic hacienda dating from 1549, though the rooms inside the property contain period furnishings from the Porfiriato era of the late 19th century. The on-site museum describes the story of the property and its role in the economic development of the local region.
Small museum focusing on regional history. Full of artifacts, documents, portraits that contribute to a view of the town's colorful history.
Old Flour Mill
Abandoned 17th-century flour mill that once supplied flour to much of Mexico. Today, the place is largely in ruins with collapsed roofs and piles of rubble, though the walls and structure are mostly intact. Great photo op spots for historical-themed photos.
Eco park that rents small cabins for overnight stays (firewood provided). Lake with catch-and-release fishing. Petting zoo features llamas and deer.
Presa Nueva
Dam and reservoir about 2 km from town. There is a tourist museum open only on Sunday. Learn about the "woman of stone" (mujer de piedra).
Bullring
Small bullring that hosts occasional bullfights or rodeo events..
Small, local restaurant with regional Mexican cuisine.
Classy outdoor patio restaurant with a wide range of traditional Mexican and regional dishes. Family friendly with a small play area for children.
Classy restaurant with a colonial style indoor dining room and an expansive outdoor terrace surrounded by carefully manicured gardens. Chilaquiles are good at breakfast and served in various ways. Dinner portions are generous and the chamorro is recommended.
Historic property in an old hacienda set on the shores of a small lake. Beautiful modern furnishings, comfortable spacious rooms. On-site restaurant serving food cooked over mesquite fires with a wood-fired pizza oven. A quiet, relaxing country escape. Pet friendly.
Historic property that operates the renovated 400-year-old hacienda as an upscale boutique hotel and spa. A meals package is available and although the menu is limited, the regional Guanajuato cuisine is authentic and delicious. Sunday mornings feature an extensive brunch buffet. A small on-site mezcal distillery produces their own "Don Nacho", which you can sample or buy a bottle to take home. The hotel features 12 very well furnished rooms with WiFi as well as a swimming pool and a temazcal (indigenous style spa). A unique property worth the splurge.
By bus
From Leon, Flecha Amarilla operates buses every 30 minutes to Cd. Manuel Doblado with fares starting at M$60 for the 2½-hour ride (2024).
Jalpa is a very small town and is easily navigated on foot, or better yet, by bicycle, which puts the presas within a few minutes ride of the main town.
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Silao · International · BJX
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