I set off to the land of cacti, coastlines, good meals and tradition — Baja California Sur, Mexico.
Are you able to embark on a journey that can take your breath away? Then it’s time to go to Baja California Sur, Mexico! This beautiful area is house to some of the most stunning surroundings and cultural experiences in all of Mexico.
From the picturesque city of Loreto to the oasis of Mulege, there are countless issues to do and uncover. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for journey or rest, this Baja California Sur itinerary has one thing for everybody.
And let’s not neglect the scrumptious delicacies – from recent seafood to genuine Mexican dishes, your style buds will probably be in heaven.
Let me unfold the diary of my extraordinary journey, a journey that took me by means of deserts, throughout the sea, and into the coronary heart of native delicacies.
Right here is an outline:
Day 1: Loreto, Baja California Sur
My Baja California Sur itinerary began at Loreto. Upon arriving in Loreto, the tranquility of the place washed over me. My first base of operations was to examine in at Lodge Oasis.
Lodge Oasis Loreto
Lodge Oasis, was an genuine retreat on the shores of the Sea of Cortez. Think about a quaint institution whose structure displays the azure sea and brilliant sky – superb for anybody trying to unplug and chill out. Lodge Oasis Loreto is a perfect getaway for these searching for a tranquil trip amidst nature, with its unbeatable location proper by the Sea of Cortez. Located at the southern tip of the enchanting Loreto Pueblo Mágico boardwalk, it gives a privileged setting to unwind and chill out.
Restaurant Mi Loreto
However let’s speak about the culinary journey that started at Mi Loreto with “Chile Relleno”. Generally present in Mexican delicacies, Chile Relleno is a scrumptious dish. Merely put, it consists of a inexperienced chile pepper filled with floor meat and coated in an egg batter.
Typically, fish can be a good selection in Loreto. Contemporary catches will entice you with their sizzle and spice. It’s no shock that Loreto’s seafood popularity is as in depth as its ocean views – in any case, they’ve been perfecting the craft for generations.
Restaurant del Carmen
Restaurant del Carmen is the Lodge Oasis restaurant, offering a definite eating journey inside a laid-back setting, staying true to the tropical vibe that defines the resort. Expertise the pleasant Almejas Tatemadas (tatemadas clams) Loreto type, a conventional dish the place succulent clams are expertly cooked beneath stones whereas being embraced by crackling flames.
Day 2: Concepcion Bay and Volcán Las Tres Virgenes
The second day of our Baja California Sur itinerary included some seaside time.
Playa La Burra
Day two dawned, and though we had deliberate to take in the island vibes at Coyote, a rogue boat engine put a damper on our plans. Not one to let destiny destroy the day, we stayed on this stunning cove at Playa La Burra.
As an alternative of consuming on an island, we ate on the seaside at La Burra. It was a spontaneous feast: the mussels and oysters right here are usually not solely recent however full of the variety of taste that solely comes from being moments from the sea. That they had simply been pulled from 5-7 meters of water. Rustic and unspoiled, like Baja itself, this place is an unpolished gem.
Mulege
Mulege was our subsequent chapter, a city not solely of picturesque appeal but additionally of wealthy ecology. Surrounded by tons of of palm timber and fed by the Santa Rosalía River, the city blossoms in defiance of the harsh desert that cradles it.
The valley was breathtaking, and the distant mountains have been equally stunning.
One of the coolest issues I noticed whereas I used to be there was dozens of vultures flying round, on the lookout for a spot to relaxation for the night time. They might circle above the palm timber the place others had already discovered a spot. It’s a testomony to the untamed nature that Baja California Sur wears so proudly.
🌅🦅
I visited Mulegé, a gorgeous oasis in Baja California Sur surrounded by desert.
The mountains & sundown are breathtaking. Vultures are flying round on the lookout for a spot to relaxation.
Have you ever been to Baja California Sur or Mexico?#VisitBajaSur #journey #Mexico #BajaCaliforniaSur pic.twitter.com/oZZqmcgxIm— Melvin (@TravelDudes) December 7, 2023
Volcán Las Tres Virgenes
We continued to our lodging at Eco Tour Las Tres Virgenes. Las Tres Vírgenes consists of three inactive stratovolcanoes: El Viejo, El Azufre, and La Virgin. These majestic peaks kind an important element of the Desert Biosphere Reserve in El Vizcaino area. Inside this reserve, quite a few endangered species discover refuge, together with roughly 500 bighorn sheep in the neighborhood surrounding these volcanoes.
Think about a country meets nature expertise, with an out of doors fire to assemble round and a sky full of stars so vivid they felt like half of our circle.
Stargazing below the full moon at Eco Tour Las Tres Virgenes was an unforgettable expertise! Regardless of the full moon’s brilliant mild, the sky was breathtaking.
Eco Tour and Lodges Las Tres Virgenes
On this space, Eco Tour and Lodges Las Tres Virgenes is the solely place to remain, which gives 5 charming rustic cabins (10 rooms) and a restaurant.
The cabins have a rugged appeal with fundamental facilities reminiscent of a sink, bathroom, and compact bathe. You might really feel a slight breeze by means of the small gaps in the picket construction. Nonetheless, these points contribute to an genuine expertise that features breathtaking views of each the valley and the volcanoes out of your balcony.
Day 3: Volcan Las Tres Virgenes – Santa Rosalia
On day three of our itinerary in Baja California Sur, we explored Santa Rosalia.
Volcan Las Tres Virgenes
One of the highlights of my journey was watching the dawn on the lava circulation of Las Tres Virgenes volcano. I stood in entrance of a wall of lava and watched the solar rise over the horizon. It was a second I’ll always remember.
However even the quick hike there may be an occasion in its personal proper. Listening to the silence early in the morning and the desert slowly waking up. The birds fly from cactus to cactus of their territory or interpret the tracks in the sand made by mice at night time.
On my return, a scorching espresso with a Mexican breakfast was ready for me. For the Mexican unique, bean puree, salsa, fried eggs and bonus toppings are packed individually onto recent corn tortillas. Just a few crumbles of feta cheese give your huevos an additional spicy kick.
If you need a novel and unforgettable journey, I extremely suggest visiting Eco Tour Las Tres Virgenes Lodges. The employees are useful, and the views are out of this world. Actually, I’d suggest staying right here for 2 nights. Then you’ll be able to hike to the rim of the volcano, which can take 8-12 hours whole.
As an alternative, we drove to El Azufre Canyon, the place we bought a really feel for the pristine earth. The sulfuric gases that waft by means of the air are a strong reminder of the energy of Mom Nature and command respect.
Santa Rosalia
Santa Rosalia, one other gem on our itinerary, offered us with a novel cultural providing – the Museo El Boleo, which preserves mining historical past, and the European magnificence of the Lodge Frances. The resort can be an awesome place to remain. It’s like going again in time. The resort has extra of a museum really feel.
Your entire city displays this distinctive French architectural type, because it was based by a French mining firm devoted to the extraction of copper till the 1950s.
La Iglesia de Santa Bárbara
The spotlight, nevertheless, is the Iglesia de Santa Bárbara. Gustave Eiffel’s metallic marvel is a testomony to the fusion of French structure and Mexican soul.
La Iglesia de Santa Bárbara in Santa Rosalía is far more than only a place of worship. This architectural gem is a testomony to the appeal of Baja California Sur and a cultural hub the place French sophistication meets Mexican spirit.
The church was designed by none aside from Gustave Eiffel – sure, the inventor of the well-known Paris Tower.
It was constructed completely of metallic and then transported midway round the world to its present location. It’s really superb how this prefabricated work of artwork harmonizes with the rugged desert backdrop.
Its presence in the coronary heart of the mining district speaks volumes about the city’s former financial ties with Europe, and now it stands as a proud image of the combine of cultures which have permeated this area. The church, with its small tower rising into the sky and its aged however well-preserved metallic reflecting the Baja solar, is a reminder of the intricacies of historical past – of business and ingenuity connecting worlds.
Restaurant Tonka’s Grill
Tonka’s Grill close by serves the heartiest and tastiest plates to fill you up. This can be a suburban eatery that gives scrumptious burgers and steaks in addition to a full bar. The out of doors seating permits visitors to take pleasure in their meals. There are additionally TV screens exhibiting sports activities. With its wonderful service, exceptional meals high quality, nice atmosphere and pleasant employees, Tonka’s Grill has turn into extremely popular with locals.
Lodge El Morro Santa Rosalia
Lodge El Morro in Santa Rosalia is a dependable lodging possibility for the space. Half of its rooms provide picturesque ocean views and a captivating patio, which gives a very gratifying expertise. The resort boasts unimaginable views, exudes a pleasant atmosphere with its stylish vintage-style constructing, and advantages from a super location.
The grounds are well-maintained and spotlessly clear. The employees is pleasant and all the time prepared to help visitors. Whereas some might discover the rooms (and elements of the resort) a bit dated with their use of fluorescent lighting, they continue to be tidy and provide distinctive water strain in the showers (although it appears this might not be constant for everybody). As well as, the presence of each a restaurant and a bar provides to the consolation of your keep. As well as, the presence of a pool provides to the general enchantment of Lodge El Morro!
Lodge Francés
Lodge Francés is a captivating motel boasting a powerful 135-year historical past and showcasing charming French structure.
Simply exterior the resort, guests are greeted by a captivating road adorned with classic locomotives and numerous artefacts from the mining period.
Inside, visitors can take pleasure in the utmost consolation on creaky but nostalgic picket flooring and expertise a well-preserved atmosphere because of meticulous upkeep efforts. In case you have an affinity for historic tales, the Lodge Francés must be at the prime of your record of locations to remain throughout your go to right here!
As well as, this exceptional place not solely gives beautiful views of the Sea of Cortez from the entrance but additionally supplies nice worth with out breaking the financial institution.
Day 4: San Marcos Island
The common-or-garden and small fishing neighborhood of San Bruno shared their wealth with us. We boarded a small and easy fishing boat to get to Playa Los Arquitos, positioned on the island of San Marcos in the fascinating Baja California Sur.
The surroundings was completely beautiful!
Some of us determined to remain in the small and stunning bay. Don’t ask me which film, however the bay with its cave has additionally been used as a film set and is ideal for swimming. You may swim by means of the opening to the open ocean.
We felt like we have been half of our personal film set!
Sabrina, Garret and I ventured out fishing and amazingly managed to catch seven fish very quickly! The joys of catching them ourselves was exhilarating. However the better part was that we took the fish to the native restaurant Palapa la Abuela for lunch. In addition they provide a ship tour. And let me let you know, catching your personal fish often tastes just a bit bit higher!
In the afternoon, we drove again to Loreto, the place we checked in once more at the Lodge Oasis – the place we stayed after we arrived in Baja California Sur.
Loreto: Serrano Wine, Seafood & Grill Steakhouse
In the night, we dined below the stars at Serrano Wine, Seafood & Grill Steakhouse in Loreto.
Serrano Restaurant in Loreto, often known as “Wine, Seafood & Grill”, was one of my greatest eating experiences in Baja. Every dish is fastidiously ready over an open wooden hearth, which provides simply the correct amount of taste to the meals. The meats and seafood have been completely cooked, whereas the salads and greens have been scrumptious.
To accompany my meal, I selected a glass of Marques del Valle Sauvignon Blanc, which exceeded my expectations with its taste.
The terrace space of Serrano is gorgeous and creates a nice environment for the visitors. As well as, the service supplied by the employees was impeccable.
Though it could be a little bit troublesome to search out Serrano from the road initially, it’s effectively value discovering this hidden gem. The wonderful meals, top-notch service and an awesome environment make this place unbeatable. Don’t hesitate and come right here for a scrumptious meal – you gained’t remorse it!
My style spotlight was the night’s lobster, octopus, and steak, which have been cooked to perfection, an echo of an awesome journey up to now to Baja California Sur in Mexico. However there may be yet one more spotlight to return…
Day 5: Catamaran journey to Isla Danzante and Loreto
Catamaran journey to Honeymoon Seaside
On day 5, we launched into a catamaran tour from the Puerto Escondido marina, simply south of Loreto.
It was the excellent time to take a break, un-connect the cellphone, and reconnect with nature. Step away as soon as extra from the hustle and bustle and enterprise into the embrace of nature.
We launched into an gratifying crusing retreat, the place we found underwater wildlife.
On board an impressive catamaran, Isla Danzante whispered its story by means of rock home windows formed by time and tide. I wouldn’t have been shocked to discover a pirate ship right here, or no less than its wreck.
Then Honeymoon Seaside welcomed us with turquoise waters so clear and inviting you might see the sea creatures dancing underfoot. It’s value placing in your diving goggles right here. I noticed a faculty of round 100 fish swimming round me. Simply be careful, there may additionally be the one or different jellyfish round.
The probabilities are good that you simply spot additionally a household of dolphins round the island. And between December and March is whale season. Preserve your eyes open for them!
In the distance, you’ll be able to see the mountain vary, which jogged my memory of the exceptional Drakensberg in South Africa… solely right here, the mountain slopes finish spectacularly in the sea.
Our tour with ABT-Crusing lasted Three hours, however each additional hour is basically value it as you have got far more time to take pleasure in the spectacular surroundings. They’ve, for instance, a sundown tour. We didn’t do this one, however this have to be very good, as the solar units behind the mountains.
That night time, we stayed in the Lodge Oasis once more. One other good resort possibility is…
Lodge 1697
Lodge 1697 is positioned proper on the major sq.. Upon getting into, you’re greeted by a peaceable and welcoming environment that completely embodies the appeal of Loreto.
The resort rooms provide a super setting for a seaside getaway with their pleasant facilities, offering a serene retreat from the chaotic routine of on a regular basis life. Take into account the resort itself is in the metropolis, and the seaside is a brief 10-minute stroll away.
The courtyard pool is beautiful, surrounded by a snug and inviting surroundings, adorned with stunning landscaping and structure that’s effectively maintained. As well as, they serve an excellent complimentary full breakfast of their courtyard space, which provides to the general expertise.
The crowning glory? Exploring Loreto on foot. It’s a small city, so you’ll be able to add sufficient photograph stops, like for the church “Mission of Our Woman of Loreto”.
Mission of Our Woman of Loreto
The Mission of Our Woman of Loreto holds the distinction of being the first rich Spanish settlement in Baja California. This beautiful construction captivates each day and night time, standing gracefully in the coronary heart of the coastal city.
Regardless of its difficult water shortage, Loreto grew to become an unconventional however efficient hub for missionaries who established quite a few missions close by. The completion of an impressive stone church round 1744 marked a big milestone.
El Zopilote Brewing Firm
Shut by, you’ll be able to embrace a cease for some craft beer at El Zopilote Brewing Firm – a testomony to Loreto’s wealthy palette of flavours. 😉
El Zopilote Brewing Firm is a well-liked spot identified for its superb pizza, however we have been extra curious about attempting their scrumptious craft beers, even when they don’t strictly adhere to conventional brewing types. One factor I completely beloved about this place is which you can really pattern the beers earlier than making your ultimate choice on what to order.
The choice of beers on faucet is basically good, providing choices like Pilgrim’s Pilsner, Rattlesnake IPA, El Bandido Stout, Blood Orange, Island’s Hazy, Thirsty Monk, Tombstone Pale Ale, Snakebite D.I.P.A., Amigos or Aztec Imperial.
These decisions are really superior and provide you with a lot of selection to select from!
Restaurant Los Olivos
Our ultimate dinner of the journey occurred at Los Olivos, a restaurant positioned in the La Misión de Loreta Lodge.
This pleasant eatery gives an progressive Baja delicacies that mixes conventional Mexican dishes with the best fish and seafood from the Sea of Cortez, freshly caught by close by fishermen daily.
After cautious consideration, I opted for his or her unexciting however scrumptious Capellini Scampi dish, which I paired with one (perhaps two) glasses of Sauvignon Blanc Monte Xanic. It turned out to be a superb choice!
So there you have got it – the overview and journey ideas of my Baja California Sur itinerary. It’s a report that features not solely the sights we noticed, but additionally the culinary highlights.
Each flip revealed treasures past my creativeness and jogged my memory that typically the deepest magnificence lies in the corners of the world, simply ready for us to whisper, “Vamos!”.
