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Episode Description
In part two from Zacatlán—a Pueblo Mágico tucked in Mexico’s apple-growing highlands—David sits down with Angelica Herrera, owner of Casa Madera, to unpack the region’s soul-warming cuisine, misty canyon scenery, and adventure options that have long made this town a beloved escape for Mexicans. Expect talk of apple fairs and parades, glass-balcony waterfall viewpoints, and rustic-modern stays perched right on the cliff’s edge.
Top Things to See & Do- Barranca de los Jilgueros (Canyon Viewpoints) – A sweeping cliff panorama that often fills with morning fog—one of Zacatlán’s signature sights.
- Waterfalls Circuit –
Cascada San Pedro: Close to town and easy to reach.
Cascada Las Brisas: Features a glass lookout balcony with dramatic canyon views.
Cascadas de Tulimán: A towering, multi-drop fall and a local favorite for hikers.
- “Piedras Mágicas” Off-Road Route – Rugged forest outcrops and stone columns reached by razor/ATV or 4×4; otherworldly rock formations and riverborn springs tucked in the woods.
- Caves & Ziplining – Guided cave treks through underground rivers plus zipline runs over the canopy—easy to pair with a waterfalls day.
- Apple Culture – Cider tastings, apple wines, and seasonal specialties echo the town’s heritage (and make great souvenirs).
When to Go
- Best months: April–June for clear skies and fresh mountain air.
- August: The beloved Feria de la Manzana (Apple Fair)—parades, performances, and yes… people on floats tossing apples into the crowd. Bring quick reflexes and a sense of humor.
Where to Eat & Drink
- Casa Fernández – A local favorite for regional flavors and inventive plates (look for the mole lasagna and excellent cocktails).
- Casa Orno – More international leaning (handmade pastas, wood-fired touches) at fair prices.
- Mi Viejo Pueblito (at Casa San Miguel) – Charming courtyard setting for Puebla-style comfort food.
- Apple Everything – Try pan con queso (cheese bread served at the start of many meals), tlayoyos (stuffed corn-dough triangles with salsas, cheese, and crema), plus ciders and apple liqueurs from local producers.
Where to Stay
- Casa Madera – Cliff-edge, rustic–modern boutique with minimalist design and 180° canyon views that often float on a sea of fog. Perfect for “slow mornings, big views.”
- Casa San Miguel – An 18th-century home turned boutique hotel (spa, temazcal, cowork, onsite restaurant). Central, atmospheric, and lovingly restored.
- Montra Glamping – Design-forward domes and tiny-home chalets on the ridgeline, plus a spa—ideal for a cozy, Instagrammable mountain escape.
Important to Note
- Easy pairing with Mexico City – Zacatlán is about 2–3 hours by car from CDMX and pairs beautifully with a capital-city itinerary for a deeper, non-beach look at Mexico.
Final Thoughts
Zacatlán trades surf and sand for mist, moss, and mountain air—with hearty Puebla cuisine and adventure at the doorstep. It’s the perfect counterpoint to Mexico City: creative, calm, and proudly local.
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DisclosureSome links in our show notes may be affiliate links. If you use them to book, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you—helping us keep Travel in 10 on the air. Our Zacatlán visit included hosted elements; opinions are our own.
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Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below: