Although Mexico boasts hundreds of enticing tourist destinations, there is a growing market for discerning travelers who look for places to enjoy top-notch accommodations, exceptional services and unique experiences to appreciate the country’s history, culture, architecture and gastronomy.
The Asociación Nacional de Tesoros de México has created a program to identify and promote hotels and restaurants certified by the federal Ministry of Tourism for meeting excellent hospitality standards to guarantee the satisfaction of their guests. Tesoros-branded destinations are encompassed in four different regional routes, with the heartland of central Mexico labeled at the Ruta de los Volcanes.
The Volcanos Route spans Mexico City and the states of Morelos, Puebla and Tlaxcala, where land hugs the Transvolcanic Belt in the territory of Popocatépetl, Iztaccihuatl and La Malinche.
Starting in the nation’s capital, Tesoro branded lodging is offered at the two Pug Seal boutique hotels developed in former private residences located in the swank Polanco district. Amenities include complimentary fresh fruit, pastries and liquid refreshments provided by the attentive staff. Guests are also treated to fine cuisine, cocktails and entertainment, plus opportunities for custom-designed walking tours of the city’s Historic Center.
A two-hour drive to the south leads to Tepoztlán in Morelos, a town renowned as a hub of mystical energies. That distinction is reflected in the spa and temazcal sweat bath services, yoga and meditation experiences and other creature comforts offered at Posada Tepozteco, Casa Fernanda, La Buena Vibra Retreat and Hostal de la Luz Resort. A hike up into the cliffs overlooking the town to the Piramade Tepozteco archaeological site will inspire intrepid travelers. Delightful dining may be arranged at the historic Hacienda de Cortés in nearby Cuernavaca.
Traveling east, one finds the city of Puebla, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural and cultural attributes. Rest in luxury at Tesoro’s centrally located Hotel Casareyna, El Sueño Hotel & Spa, or the historic La Purificadora. Sit down at El Mural de los Poblanos for a five-course tasting menu introducing different types of mole and other classic regional flavors. A visit to the Talavera de la Reyna workshop is a must-do experience for anyone keen to see how Puebla’s top-quality ceramic wares are produced.
Close-up views of the string of majestic volcanos are most visible during a morning journey to Tlaxcala. Delve into the state’s architectural history and deep-rooted agricultural heritage as guests at the Hacienda Soltepec, which features a pulque museum and Mexico’s first organic golf course, or the serene and isolated Hacienda Santa Barbara that houses a gallery devoted to the culture of maize and corn.
Tesoros de Mexico adventures are designed to furnish curious travelers with optimum lodging and dining options and insights into authentic Mexico, far above what’s available on conventional package tours or at all-inclusive resort destinations. Find detailed information at the tesorosdemexico.mx website, on Facebook and Instagram.