Situated less than ten miles apart, the towns of Mascota and Talpa de Allende in Jalisco’s southern sierra have joined the growing list of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos, a designation that seeks to draw more tourists, create jobs and attract resources for local infrastructure.
Mexico’s Department of Tourism (Sectur) named 28 new “Magic Towns” last week, raising the nation’s total from 83 to 111.
Jalisco is now one of the most represented states on the list, with seven Pueblos Magicos. As well as Mascota and Talpa, they are Tapalpa, Mazamitla, Lagos de Moreno, San Sebastian del Oeste and Tequila.
Developed by Mexico’s Department of Tourism (Sectur), the Pueblo Magico designation was launched in 2001 to promote towns that offer visitors a “magical” experience – by way of their natural beauty, cultural riches or historical relevance.
To be considered, a town must have strong local support; a wide range of attractions that set it apart from other places; and adequate infrastructure, including tourist information, basic security measures and a number of nearby hotels and restaurants.
Designated towns are typically Mexican communities home to historical buildings or monuments, noteworthy architecture, unique festivals, special traditions, local crafts and culinary specialties. They are also encouraged to develop and market outdoor activities such as fishing and extreme sports to give tourists more options.
The benefits of becoming a Pueblo Magico include access to federal funds for tourism infrastructure improvements, including the preservation of historical sites, the diversification of tourist attractions, the creation and modernization of tourist-related businesses, greater publicity, and an increase in jobs and local revenue.
Mascota
Mascota is a picturesque town surrounded by pine coveed hills, set in the cooler climes of the southern Jalisco sierra, about 140 miles west of Guadalajara. Characterized by cobblestone streets and charming colonial buildings, the town is becoming increasingly popular with visitors seeking a laid-back break from the excesses of Puerto Vallarta, a two-hour drive away. The town boasts two splendid museums, one housing a fine collection of rocks, and serves as a great base for visits to small towns and other regional attractions, including lakes, picnic areas and volcanos.
Talpa
Just six miles to the south of Mascota, Talpa de Allende is a former silver mining town famed for its religious pilgrimages, when thousands of Catholic devotees descend on the town to pay tribute to the Virgin de Talpa, who resides in the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Rosario. The statue is one of Mexico’s most venerated icons and the main reason why visitors flock there. Nonetheless, this pretty and clean town has other attractions apart from its virgin, and makes for an excellent excursion, especially if one is based in Mascota.