The enchanting mountain village of Bernal, Mexico is a rural paradise nestled in the rolling foothills of the Sierra Gorda mountain range in the state of Querétaro. Located just two hours outside of the bustling metropolitan city of Queretaro, Bernal is the ideal destination for travelers looking to get away from it all and experience the beauty of Mexico's rural landscape.
The village of Bernal is home to a unique blend of traditional Mexican culture and modern amenities. The cobblestone streets are lined with brightly-colored colonial-style buildings, and visitors can explore the charming plazas, churches, and monuments that make up the town's historical center. Bernal is also known for its lush green landscapes, with rolling hills, pine forests, and crystal-clear streams dotting the terrain.
The town is also home to a variety of attractions, such as the San Juan de Bernal Chapel, the Bernal Hill lookout point, and the El Salto waterfall. Visitors can also take advantage of the various outdoor activities available in the area, from horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking to camping, bird watching, and more.
Bernal is an inviting destination for those looking to experience the Mexican countryside in a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. With its rich history, diverse landscape, and vibrant culture, Bernal is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the beauty of rural Mexico.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Centro Historico: This is the historic center of Bernal, located in the Plaza de la Constitucion. It is home to many attractions and landmarks, including the iconic El Peñón de Bernal, the largest monolith in the world.
2. El Mirador: This area is located at the tip of El Peñón de Bernal and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. It is popular with tourists and locals alike.
3. La Estancia: This area is located near the main square and is home to many bars, restaurants, and live music venues. It is the perfect spot for a night out or to enjoy a traditional Mexican meal.
4. La Montana: Located on the western side of town, La Montana is a residential area with a laid-back atmosphere. It is popular with families and is home to many green spaces and parks.
5. La Concepción: This area is adjacent to the Centro Historico and is known for its many museums, art galleries, and unique shops. It is a great place to explore and find unique souvenirs to take home.
1. La Peña de Bernal: This majestic rock formation is the third largest monolith in the world, rising to a height of 335 meters. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, and is also a popular spot for climbers and hikers.
2. El Salto del Nogal: This picturesque waterfall is located at the foot of the Sierra Gorda mountains. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the pool below, or admire the surrounding lush vegetation.
3. The Church of San Francisco: This 16th century church is one of the oldest in the city, and boasts a beautiful baroque-style facade. Inside, visitors can admire the intricately decorated altar and exquisite stained glass windows.
4. Plaza de San Francisco: Located in the historic city center, this charming square is a great place to relax and take in the atmosphere of the city. It's also home to a number of cafes and restaurants, where visitors can sample some of the local cuisine.
5. Parque Nacional Sierra Gorda: This stunning national park is home to a wealth of wildlife, including endangered species such as the black bear and jaguar. Visitors can explore the park's many trails, take boat rides on the lake, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
1. Tacos de Pastor: This traditional dish consists of soft tacos filled with marinated pork and topped with pineapple and onion.
2. Birria: This is a spicy stew made with goat meat and a variety of chiles. It is often served with homemade tortillas and a side dish of onions and cilantro.
3. Carnitas: This is a popular dish in Bernal, where pieces of pork are boiled in copper pots until they become tender and flavorful.
4. Enchiladas: This dish consists of corn tortillas filled with cheese, chicken, or beef and then fried or baked. It is usually served with a sauce of red or green chiles.
5. Churros: This is a Mexican version of the classic donut, made with deep-fried dough and sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon. It is a popular dessert in Bernal and can be found in many of the local cafes.