San Sebastian, the Real Magical Mexico

The first thing tourists think about when they are planning their Mexico vacations are the beaches, sunshine, and vibrant and exciting nightlife, but there is so much more that Mexico offers. There are many magical towns or (Pueblos Magicos as they are known) scattered throughout Mexico, and these are popular tourist locations. These towns have been recognized by Mexico’s Secretariat of Tourism, as Pueblos Magicos. To be considered a Pueblo Magico, the town must have historical relevance, culture, and the natural beauty. Each town that is recognized offers a magical experience that you will come to love in Mexico.

Mexico wanted to start promoting tourism throughout the country beyond the beaches and big cities and so the ministry of tourism launched the Pueblos Magicos program in 2001. The Pueblos Magicos program showcases Mexico’s 31 states with 83 towns and the towns are chosen according to specific criteria. A few of the towns near Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit are Tapalpa, San Sebastián del Oeste, and Tequila, and all of these towns in Jalisco honor the history, heritage, and culture of Mexico.

Visit a Pueblo Magico During a Vacation to Puerto Vallarta

If you are staying in Puerto Vallarta or Riviera Nayarit on vacation, then San Sebastian del Oeste is probably the closest magical town for you to visiti as it is just under two hours away, which is great, because you can spend the entire day there. This Pueblo Magico was once a thriving mining town with over 20,000 occupants, and the town was founded in 1605. It’s beauty and history is still alive and strong, but there are now only around 600 occupants there today, which allows for tourists to get up close and personal with the history and residents.

The result of the mining era in San Sebastian del Oeste was the quaint architecture that you can see all through the town. When you arrive, start at the center plaza in the city, because there are three buildings that will leave a lasting impression of your visit: the Hacienda de Esperanza de la Galera, la Quinta Maria, and the Church of Saint Sebastian are adobe buildings that have hand cut stone. These are the most beautiful buildings on the coast of Mexico.

San Sebastian has been ranked as one of the most popular locations in Mexico. It is a great place to visit while in Mexico, because of the heritage and history that is here. There is a magical experience that awaits you when you visit this town while you are vacationing in Mexico.