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 may take your breath away? Then it’s time to go to Baja California Sur, Mexico! This gorgeous area is residence to among the most stunning surroundings and cultural experiences in all of Mexico.
From the picturesque city of Loreto to the oasis of Mulege, there are infinite issues to do and uncover. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for journey or leisure, this Baja California Sur itinerary has one thing for everybody.
And let’s not overlook the scrumptious delicacies – from contemporary seafood to genuine Mexican dishes, your style buds shall be in heaven.
Let me unfold the diary of my extraordinary journey, a journey that took me by way of deserts, throughout the ocean, and into the guts of native delicacies.
Right here is an summary:
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 test 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 vibrant sky – preferrred for anybody trying to unplug and calm down. 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 on the southern tip of the enchanting Loreto Pueblo Mágico boardwalk, it provides a privileged setting to unwind and calm down.
Restaurant Mi Loreto
However let’s discuss concerning 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 full of floor meat and coated in an egg batter.
Usually, fish can also be a sensible choice 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 lodge. Expertise the pleasant Almejas Tatemadas (tatemadas clams) Loreto model, a standard 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 absorb the island vibes at Coyote, a rogue boat engine put a damper on our plans. Not one to let destiny break the day, we stayed on this stunning cove at Playa La Burra.
As a substitute of consuming on an island, we ate on the seaside at La Burra. It was a spontaneous feast: the mussels and oysters right here should not solely contemporary however stuffed with the form of taste that solely comes from being moments from the ocean. They’d 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 cruel desert that cradles it.
The valley was breathtaking, and the distant mountains have been equally stunning.
One of many 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 fantastic 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 a significant part 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 within the neighborhood surrounding these volcanoes.
Think about a country meets nature expertise, with an out of doors hearth to assemble round and a sky stuffed with stars so vivid they felt like a part of our circle.
Stargazing below the complete moon at Eco Tour Las Tres Virgenes was an unforgettable expertise! Regardless of the complete moon’s vibrant gentle, the sky was breathtaking.
Eco Tour and Lodges Las Tres Virgenes
On this space, Eco Tour and Lodges Las Tres Virgenes is the one place to remain, which provides 5 charming rustic cabins (10 rooms) and a restaurant.
The cabins have a rugged appeal with primary facilities reminiscent of a sink, rest room, and compact bathe. You might really feel a slight breeze by way of the small gaps within the picket construction. Nonetheless, these facets 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 many highlights of my journey was watching the dawn on the lava movement 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 within the morning and the desert slowly waking up. The birds fly from cactus to cactus of their territory or interpret the tracks within 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 authentic, bean puree, salsa, fried eggs and bonus toppings are packed individually onto contemporary corn tortillas. Just a few crumbles of feta cheese give your huevos an additional spicy kick.
If you’d like a novel and unforgettable journey, I extremely suggest visiting Eco Tour Las Tres Virgenes Lodges. The workers are useful, and the views are out of this world. The truth is, 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 a substitute, we drove to El Azufre Canyon, the place we obtained a really feel for the pristine earth. The sulfuric gases that waft by way of the air are a robust reminder of the facility 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 lodge can also be an ideal place to remain. It’s like going again in time. The lodge has extra of a museum really feel.
Your entire city displays this distinctive French architectural model, because it was based by a French mining firm devoted to the extraction of copper till the Fifties.
La Iglesia de Santa Bárbara
The spotlight, nonetheless, is the Iglesia de Santa Bárbara. Gustave Eiffel’s steel surprise 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 apart from Gustave Eiffel – sure, the inventor of the well-known Paris Tower.
It was constructed fully of steel after which transported midway all over the world to its present location. It’s actually wonderful how this prefabricated murals harmonizes with the rugged desert backdrop.
Its presence within the coronary heart of the mining district speaks volumes concerning the city’s former financial ties with Europe, and now it stands as a proud image of the combination of cultures which have permeated this area. The church, with its small tower rising into the sky and its aged however well-preserved steel reflecting the Baja solar, is a reminder of the intricacies of historical past – of trade and ingenuity connecting worlds.
Restaurant Tonka’s Grill
Tonka’s Grill close by serves the heartiest and tastiest plates to fill you up. It is a suburban eatery that provides scrumptious burgers and steaks in addition to a full bar. The outside seating permits visitors to get pleasure from their meals. There are additionally TV screens exhibiting sports activities. With its glorious service, exceptional meals high quality, nice atmosphere and pleasant workers, Tonka’s Grill has grow to be very fashionable with locals.
Lodge El Morro Santa Rosalia
Lodge El Morro in Santa Rosalia is a dependable lodging possibility for the world. Half of its rooms supply picturesque ocean views and a captivating patio, which provides a really pleasurable expertise. The lodge boasts unbelievable views, exudes a pleasant atmosphere with its elegant vintage-style constructing, and advantages from a great location.
The grounds are well-maintained and spotlessly clear. The workers is pleasant and at all times prepared to help visitors. Whereas some could discover the rooms (and elements of the lodge) a bit dated with their use of fluorescent lighting, they continue to be tidy and supply distinctive water strain within the showers (although it appears this is probably not 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 attraction 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 outdoors the lodge, guests are greeted by a captivating avenue adorned with classic locomotives and varied artefacts from the mining period.
Inside, visitors can benefit from the utmost consolation on creaky but nostalgic picket flooring and expertise a well-preserved atmosphere due to meticulous upkeep efforts. When you’ve got an affinity for historic tales, the Lodge Francés must be on the high of your checklist of locations to remain throughout your go to right here!
As well as, this exceptional place not solely provides gorgeous views of the Sea of Cortez from the entrance but additionally gives nice worth with out breaking the financial institution.
Day 4: San Marcos Island
The standard and small fishing group of San Bruno shared their wealth with us. We boarded a small and easy fishing boat to get to Playa Los Arquitos, situated on the island of San Marcos within the fascinating Baja California Sur.
The surroundings was completely gorgeous!
A few of us determined to remain within the small and exquisite 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 way of the opening to the open ocean.
We felt like we have been a part 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 most effective half was that we took the fish to the native restaurant Palapa la Abuela for lunch. In addition they supply a ship tour. And let me inform you, catching your individual fish normally tastes just a bit bit higher!
Within the afternoon, we drove again to Loreto, the place we checked in once more on the Lodge Oasis – the place we stayed after we arrived in Baja California Sur.
Loreto: Serrano Wine, Seafood & Grill Steakhouse
Within the night, we dined below the celebrities at Serrano Wine, Seafood & Grill Steakhouse in Loreto.
Serrano Restaurant in Loreto, generally known as “Wine, Seafood & Grill”, was one in all my finest eating experiences in Baja. Every dish is rigorously 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 pleasing environment for the visitors. As well as, the service supplied by the workers was impeccable.
Though it might be a bit troublesome to seek out Serrano from the road initially, it’s effectively value discovering this hidden gem. The wonderful meals, top-notch service and an ideal environment make this place unbeatable. Don’t hesitate and are available 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 ideal journey up to now to Baja California Sur in Mexico. However there may be yet one more spotlight to come back…
Day 5: Catamaran journey to Isla Danzante and Loreto
Catamaran journey to Honeymoon Seashore
On day 5, we launched into a catamaran tour from the Puerto Escondido marina, simply south of Loreto.
It was the right 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 pleasurable crusing retreat, the place we found underwater wildlife.
On board an impressive catamaran, Isla Danzante whispered its story by way of rock home windows formed by time and tide. I wouldn’t have been stunned to discover a pirate ship right here, or not less than its wreck.
Then Honeymoon Seashore welcomed us with turquoise waters so clear and alluring you could possibly see the ocean 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 also be the one or different jellyfish round.
The probabilities are good that you just spot additionally a household of dolphins across the island. And between December and March is whale season. Preserve your eyes open for them!
Within 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 within the sea.
Our tour with ABT-Crusing lasted 3 hours, however each additional hour is actually value it as you may have far more time to benefit from the spectacular surroundings. They’ve, for instance, a sundown tour. We didn’t do this one, however this should be excellent, because the solar units behind the mountains.
That night time, we stayed within the Lodge Oasis once more. One other good lodge possibility is…
Lodge 1697
Lodge 1697 is situated proper on the primary sq.. Upon getting into, you might be greeted by a peaceable and welcoming environment that completely embodies the appeal of Loreto.
The lodge rooms supply a great setting for a seaside getaway with their pleasant facilities, offering a serene retreat from the chaotic routine of on a regular basis life. Consider the lodge itself is within the metropolis, and the seaside is a brief 10-minute stroll away.
The courtyard pool is beautiful, surrounded by a snug and alluring atmosphere, adorned with stunning landscaping and structure that’s effectively maintained. As well as, they serve an impressive 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 picture 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 excellence of being the primary rich Spanish settlement in Baja California. This gorgeous construction captivates each day and night time, standing gracefully within the coronary heart of the coastal city.
Regardless of its difficult water shortage, Loreto turned 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 major 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 wonderful pizza, however we have been extra concerned with attempting their scrumptious craft beers, even when they don’t strictly adhere to conventional brewing types. One factor I completely cherished about this place is which you can truly pattern the beers earlier than making your closing determination on what to order.
The collection of beers on faucet is actually 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 actually superior and provide you with loads of selection to select from!
Restaurant Los Olivos
Our closing dinner of the journey passed off at Los Olivos, a restaurant situated within the La Misión de Loreta Lodge.
This pleasant eatery provides an revolutionary 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 wonderful determination!
So there you may have 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 within the corners of the world, simply ready for us to whisper, “Vamos!”.
