Tapalpa is one of the better-known day trip destinations from Lake Chapala. You may already be familiar with its fragrant pine forests, picturesque houses with wooden beams and balconies, and giant, mysterious piedrotas (rocks).
A day trip, however, leaves much to be desired. Since it takes over two hours to drive to this charming mountain village, one barely has time to peek in a store or two and have a quick lunch before it's time to head home again.
It is much more fun and satisfying to plan for a longer visit and stay overnight. Experience the sounds and sights of Tapalpa waking up in the morning. Smell fragrant smoke from the wood fires in the evening. You'll have more time to stroll the streets, enjoy the local cuisine and feel more like a native - well almost.
One of Mexico's Pueblos Magicos (magical towns), Tapalpa is attracting more attention both from Mexican and foreign visitors. Most tend to visit on the weekends, so I suggest you come to Tapalpa during the week. You'll find it easier to pick a hotel you like and wait less time for your restaurants meals.
Tapalpa boasts a tremendous variety of overnight accommodations; everything from rustic cabins in the woods to high end, modern ecology lodges.
La Casona de Manzona
Are you are expecting a visit from the family and the grandkids? If you have a crowd to lodge and feed, you might prefer the more economical as well as friendly and homey atmosphere of La Posada Real., located just a few blocks from the main plaza, is probably overlooked by most foreign visitors. You are greeted by Irma Manzano who spent her childhood in this grand family home. With loving attention to detail she has decorated each of 9 bedrooms in this handsome old mansion. Breakfast is served on a glassed-in terrace with exquisite mountain views. You may be tempted to take all your meals here where you can sample a delicious variety of Mexican haute cuisine. A common room with comfy sofas beckons you to sit in front of the fire or read a book. Rooms at La Casona del Manzano start at 1000 pesos. You can find lovely photos and more information about Casona del Manzano on: www.historichaciendainns.com Telephone: 333-615-5779
But perhaps you already know the town inside and out. You are ready for a different experience. One of Tapalpa's newest establishments, the Hotel El Remanso, bills itself as "the highest yacht club in Mexico" at 2,100 meters above sea level. It is situated a few miles out of town, overlooking the Presa del Nogal, and it might be the perfect destination after a winter of too many cocktail parties or charity events. A room for two on the second floor (recommended because of the view and privacy) costs only 850 pesos.
El Remanso offers more than handsome, modern rooms with a view. Try renting horses or mountain bikes for exploring the surrounding acres, Go kayaking or sailing on the lake that is also well stocked for fishing. If you'd like some peace and quiet for research or writing, you can count on a wireless Internet connection and a full service restaurant. El Remanso is also available for special events such as weddings or anniversaries, as well as business meetings. For more details contact: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it www.hotelelremanso.com.mx Telephone: (33) 3146 0368
Natalie and Sergio, your young, enthusiastic hosts will be happy to give you tips on all there is to see and do. The younger generations might enjoy mountain climbing or hiking and, of course, climbing all over the giant rocks looking for petroglyphs or poking around the ruins of Mexico's first paper factory. La Posada Real offers twenty rooms, many with bunk beds for the kids. You can sleep up to six for under 1000 pesos. www.historichaciendainns This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Tel: 333-684-0134
