Zacatlán de las Manzanas: A Pueblo Mágico Worth the Trip
A hillside town in Puebla, Mexico, wrapped in fog, apple orchards, and cobblestone streets — where waterfalls, cider, and cozy log cabins make for one of the most magical stays in Mexico.
8/7/20264 min read
Another thing we loved to do was go for long walks downtown, admiring the beautiful double-sided floral clock that sits right in the middle of the city, or getting lost trying to find the mosaic murals that live within the walls of the city.
But going out and exploring waterfalls, and even catching glimpses of cultural traditions taking place by the riverbank, are experiences that can only be described as truly unique.
There's something called Pueblos Mágicos in Mexico, which means "Magic Towns" — and let us tell you, they embody the entire meaning of that phrase.
Everything about these places is so special, authentic, unique and… magical.
We got the chance to explore a couple of them, but Diana's favorite since she was a child was an absolute treasure to explore and spend time in.
Zacatlán de las Manzanas, located in the state of Puebla, Mexico, is one of the most beautiful towns we have ever been to. Nestled on a hillside between valleys and rivers, it has its own microclimate that shifts as you make your way up — a little bit of fog welcomes you as you approach, and the mist clings to your hair and face. But once you pass the lower side of the valley, you are welcomed with sunny blue skies and warmth until the sun sets in the afternoon. You can also get some foggy days with mist and a little chill — enough to want to stay in one of the beautiful log cabins, enjoy a meal by the fireplace, but also incredibly magical to go out and explore waterfalls when no one else is around, or head to the town center for a stone oven pizza, hot coffee and fresh baked goods in the afternoon.
Zacatlán is known for its beautiful orchards, ciders and fruit wines — it even has its own apple fair every year. The colonial architecture transports you back in time with every step you take, the cobblestone streets feel so romantic, and the history and culture peeking around every corner makes you want to stay forever.
Enjoying a coffee downtown or a healthy meal was one of our favorite things to do, especially since the weather while we were there was absolutely perfect for grabbing coffees and sitting outside on one of the balconies, taking it all in.
Where to Stay
We stayed at El Mirador Cabañas y Restaurante (Cabins and Restaurant) and we one hundred percent recommend it. You get stunning views of the valley right from your cabin — the perfect way to start your morning is with a coffee on the balcony, easing into a slow morning with an incredible view. And if you'd rather not make your own coffee, or simply want a full breakfast experience, head up to the restaurant for one of the most iconic mornings you'll have in this place.
You can book through their website: elmiradorzacatlan.com.mx
Address
km. 1 carr, Carr. Zacatlán - Chignahuapan s/n, Centro, 73310 Zacatlán, Pue., Mexico
Hours
Check-in time: 2:00 PM
Check-out time: 11:00 AM
To Grab a Coffee
The Italian Coffee Company Downtown — A chain in Mexico and globally, but the quality is great. They specialize in espresso-based drinks, frappes and pastries like alfajores. The Zacatlán location is beautifully decorated, with a calm and relaxed ambiance and balconies that are a dream to spend your day at. They also have reliable, fast internet.
A note on coffee — when we visited, not much was open, but we know there are many more local coffee shops and the coffee culture has been growing. It would absolutely be worth exploring the newer ones. Also worth mentioning: Mexico is a major coffee producer, and the beans grown around this valley are exceptional, nourished by the way the rain irrigates the land. We'd highly recommend seeking out a spot serving local beans, locally roasted.
Where to Eat
On! Cheese Pizza — The Zacatlán pizza is amazing: apples, goat cheese, walnuts, caramelized onions and cranberries. You won't believe it! View on Maps
Casa Fernández — A restaurant that has been around since 1876, with a variety of dishes. Our favorites are the traditional plates from Puebla, the state Zacatlán is in, as well as the classic Mexican breakfast offerings. View on Maps
El Mirador Restaurant — The hotel's own restaurant also offers a wide selection of traditional Mexican dishes, and the quality is excellent.
What to See
El Mirador — A lookout over the canyon from the hillside, with sweeping views of the valley. View on Maps
Cascadas Salto de Quetzalapan — View on Maps
Cascada Las Brisas — View on Maps
Cascada La Joya — View on Maps
Cascadas Tulimán — View on Maps
Zona 1 — View on Maps
Cascadas San Pedro — View on Maps
Cascada Agua Azul de Padre Jesús — Aquixtla, Puebla — View on Maps
…and many, many more.
Gallery
Some more pictures of this magical place to inspire you to go...
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