Real de Catorce

High in the Sierra Madres, at an altitude of approximately 9,000′,  sits a silent jewel of a town which for 150 years supplied Spanish conquistadors with silver. Now the population – once 35,000 – has dwindled to approximately 1,200 and the colonial mansions, fountains and cobble stone streets remain frozen in time. Perhaps the mystery and intrigue lie in its inaccessibility for the incredible city can only be reached by a narrow mile long tunnel, wide enough for only one vehicle at a time.  This is Jo’s favorite 3 day tour. Come and visit the town once inhabited by luxury-loving Spaniards, adventurous bandits and still descended upon once a year by the Huichol Indians in their search of sacred peyote, a cactus which, when chewed, will cause hallucinations. Since we spend two nights in Matehuala, Jo’s tour will allow you more time to enjoy Real.

DAY 1 – Travel west after crossing the border routing is through Monterrey and Saltillo. Continue to Matehuala and the High Plains. Overnight at the  Las Palmas Midway Inn in Matehuala, San Luis Potosi.

DAY 2 – Natural, rugged beauty surrounds us today as we journey out to Real de Catorce. When we reach the tunnel entrance, transfer to smaller vehicles to carry us into the town. Let your imagination take over as we view spectacular buildings from by-gone days.  Visit the Cathedral, the Casa de Moneda (the old mint), the cemetery, from where you can view four states, and a beautiful, old Palenque (Spanish for cock-fighting ring). Enjoy an included lunch  before returning to our hotel.  Tonight enjoy the music of a local group. Overnight at the Las Palmas Midway Inn in Matehuala, San Luis Potosi. B, L

DAY 3 – After your included breakfast, we depart for our leisurely drive back home. Just past Saltillo we will stop at a Bakery, where you can sample Pan de Pulque. This bread, leavened with a mild alcoholic beverage produced from the maguey cactus, is a specialty from this area.. The bakery also sells an assortment of candies made in nearby Parras. Continue to Monterrey for your lunch stop with arrival at the border estimated at 6:30p.m. B