If you are looking for a close getaway, even for a long weekend, Mexico’s vibrant city of San Miquel de Allende beckons. Surely you have heard about this favorite escape for American ex-pats, who long ago discovered beautiful homes with magnificent architecture, rich history, artistic tradition, great restaurants and a close knit ex-pat community within a sophisticated, peaceful small city deep in the heart of Mexico. A trip to San Miguel can easily be paired with a couple of days exploring the neighborhoods and foodie scene in Mexico City.
San Miguel is a year-round destination and is a very photographic city known for its timeless historic center, winding cobblestone streets, hidden alleyways, old world doors, colorful facades and great boutique shopping. Located in a narrow valley, this 16th century Spanish colonial city brings together leafy plazas, historic churches, art galleries, fashionable boutiques with designs by local artists, museums, theatres, a lively nightlife with rooftop bars, and a sophisticated foodie scene. The city even offers a home and architectural tour throughout the valley where owners open up their exquisite properties to showcase their designs, décor, beautiful surroundings and incredible vistas.
The city’s diverse creative scene blends traditional craftsmanship, fine arts, and contemporary influences into a legacy sparked by the city’s first art school in the 1930`s. There are a number of workshops in which a visitor can “get their hands dirty” through private classes with local artists over a variety of mediums. You may even want to consider staying an extended time when you learn about the various programs available or just register to attend a 4-hour Master Class, a one-of-a-kind adventure even if you know nothing about the art.
Many of the workshops are in La Aurora, a former textile mill that houses a number of galleries and studios as well as artisan shops, bars and restaurants . There are also a number of cooking classes with private chefs than enable you to roll up your sleeves and become familiar with traditional techniques and seasonings behind Mexico’s’ sensorial gastronomy.
The layered heritage that weaves through the city brings both past and present influences into food, art, culture, spirituality and festivals, creating an unmatchable set of experiences in Mexico. Visitors can also get off the beaten track to meet the locals and those who protect the rich heritage of San Miguel. Perhaps you would like to experience the cowboy culture in the mountains, meet with a master artisan who transforms volcanic rock to art, visit the family run organic farms, or taste the wines of a growing number of small batch wineries whose vines are imported from France.
The location in the central highlands is perfect for the wine scene and it’s fun to share the dreams of the local farmers. In the late summer months, the wine harvest comes into full swing with live music, grape-stomping, and wine aplenty.
There are a number of great hotels in San Miguel including Rosewood and the Belmond Casa Sierra Nevada, as the most well-known, but there are also a few hidden boutique hotels that offer great rooms, amazing service and food, and number just a few rooms, but including all the amenities one would expect in a 5-star hotel.
One highlight we experienced on a recent trip was a private tasting in a 17th century house
that showcases Casa Dragones tequila, blended by one of the only, if not the only, female tequila masters in the world. Popular among celebrities back in 2018-2019, this tequila has become a household name with American tequila connoisseurs.
San Miguel, a melting pot of cultures very much influenced by a bohemian lifestyle, offers a window into Mexico’s essence, where the echoes of history merge with the vibrancy of modern culture, creating an irresistible call for any traveler.
Call us at Latitude Expeditions to learn more or to book your trip 760-550-1214.
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