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City in Veracruz, Mexico
Photo: Albertoflg1, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Naolinco is a small mountain town close to the Gulf of Mexico in the eastern part of Veracruz. It is a peaceful town with a picturesque colonial-era downtown, ideal for strolling and soaking in the small town vibe. The town is popular with nature lovers who come for the forested mountain scenery with a nearby waterfall. The town is one of Mexico's designated Pueblos Mágicos.
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Church of St Matthew the Apostle
The parish was established in the 16th century by Franciscan missionaries, but the current church was completely rebuilt in the early 20th century in a neo-gothic style.
Zocalo
The town's main plaza is an enjoyable square with brick-paved pathways radiating out from a central kiosco (bandstand). Many iron park benches under tall pine trees.
Naolinco Cemetery
This is a really cool cemetery that people are just dying to get into. It's one of Mexico's most beautiful cemeteries with a huge number of memorial statues, many atop elevated crypts. The cemetery is also the site of Day of the Dead celebrations on the night of November 1 featuring singing hymns and praises to the dead. The singing begins in the cemetery's El Descanso chapel. A special prayer is said for the solitary souls who have nobody who remembers them. The Day of the Dead celebrations in Naolinco are unique in Mexico and have been submitted by INAH as a candidate World Heritage Site.
Monumento al Zapatero
Naolinco is known for its quality leather products, and visitors to the city shouldn't be surprised to see a towering bronze monumental Statue dedicated to the town's shoemakers. Someday the belt makers, purse makers, and leather motorcycle jacket makers might get their monuments, but for now, it's the shoemakers who are emblematic of Naolinco's leather industry.
Waterfalls
Just outside town is a set of waterfalls with a scenic overlook (mirador) for those who would rather just take pictures then hike the mountain trail for a close-up of the falls.
Regional cuisine served in an elegant dining room. The food is incredible with an emphasis on regional cooking. Their moles are the best in town and their chilaquiles with chicken and mole is a unique spin on a classic breakfast dish. The shredded pork in chileseco sauce is satisfyingly spicy. In-house bakery sells fresh bread and pastries to go. An artesanias shop at the entrance sells local leather and ceramic crafts. Cash strongly preferred.
Large contemporary dining room serving regional cuisine with an emphasis on moles. Try the Enchiladas de Pipian Con Cecina or the Costillas (baked ribs). Unusual desserts including fruit filled empanadas (fig, pineapple, blueberry). Cash only (no credit cards and definitely no payment apps).
Family-run restaurant in business over 70 years. Regional cuisines with specialties including Chiles Rellenos elevated to an art form and served in various styles, like a wonderfully smoky Chipotle Relleno. Hearty home cooking like abuela used to make.
Traditional Mexican and regional cuisines served in a modernized colonial building with stone walls, Mexican artesanias, and a delightful outdoor courtyard dining area. You can order off the menu, or take advantage of the buffet with its extensive selection (not to mention being able to stuff yourself by going back for seconds).
Traditional colonial style hotel with period architectural detail (iron fixtures, columns, archways, etc.) Rooms are clean, but small and minimally furnished though some have balconies. Parking is on the street (no lot at the hotel).
Hotel with cabanas on the north side of town, beautifully maintained gardens. Rooms are comfortable, clean and well equipped with spacious bathrooms, cable TV, and mini-fridge. Outdoor area has grills available.
By bus
Second-class buses from Xalapa take 90 minutes to reach Naolinco and cost M$30.
By car
Naolinco (also known as Naolinco de Victoria) is 30 to 35 km from Xalapa, depending on which road you choose.
The town is small enough to get around easily by walking. Taxis are readily available and you can find them near the main plaza, or have your hotel staff call for one.
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Veracruz · International · VER
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