The Pacific Coast of Mexico
A still undiscovered paradise far away from the mainstream.
17 February 2020
The gorgeous coastal stretches of Costa Nayarit and Costa Alegre are among the absolute insider tips of the year and offer largely untouched nature. With exciting hotel projects, the international jet set is attracted.
As a travel destination, Mexico is no longer an insider tip. For years, the country has been attracting travellers from all over the world, not only thanks to its delicious food, but also because of its diverse culture and spectacular landscapes. Hospitable as Mexicans are, they welcome everyone who makes it to their country with open arms. "Mi casa es tu casa" is something you hear more often here: literally, "My house is your house," which translates to: Make yourself at home. Mexicans are proud of their country and are happy to show it to guests from other countries. What would the world be without burritos, tequila or Frida Kahlo? Culinarily as well as in terms of art and culture, we owe Mexico a lot more than one would expect at first glance. Mexican cuisine is one of the most popular cuisines in the world, mainly due to its variety of flavours and delicious as well as healthy ingredients such as corn, beans and chilli. Tacos, nachos and guacamole are well known to everyone and it is hard to imagine the European restaurant scene without them. In fact, however, Mexican cuisine has much more to offer. Did you know that a Mexican "torta" is not a cake but a sandwich? Have you ever tried "tamales" - a stuffed dough wrapped in corn leaves and steamed? Or "mole" - a sauce made up of countless ingredients and often simmered for hours, perfect for preparing a variety of dishes? Moreover, the dishes and their ingredients vary from region to region. But if you want to get to know the true variety of Mexican cuisine, you have to go to the country yourself, because really authentic Mexican food is hard to find in Europe. Of course, a visit to a "fiesta" with traditional mariachi music accompaniment is not to be missed. The typical Mexican likes to celebrate and have a good time.
While most Mexican holidaymakers head to Cancún, Playa del Carmen or Tulum, Mexico's Pacific coast is still considered an undiscovered hideaway. It's at least as spectacular as the Caribbean side of the country, but nowhere near as crowded. We paid a visit to the "upcoming destination" - and were thrilled! The Pacific coast is undoubtedly one of our absolute travel highlights of the year. Here, one dream beach follows the next - most of them, in contrast to the Riviera Maya in the Caribbean, completely unspoilt and deserted. Fairytale mangrove forests with wild crocodiles and iguanas alternate with dreamy fishing villages and vibrant hotspots like Puerto Vallarta or Manzanillo - the perfect mix of relaxation and party! The climate is mild all year round with an average of 27 degrees. Art and culture lovers will discover the country's most beautiful handicrafts, traditionally made from colourful glass beads by the indigenous Huichols; nature fans can look forward to miles of sandy beaches and underwater highlights such as swimming with sea turtles. You won't find cheap mass tourism on Mexico's Pacific coast. Instead, the Costa is becoming a new hotspot for luxury hotels. In the breathtakingly beautiful town of Tamarindo, work is underway on a new Four Seasons Resort. Further north, plans have already been submitted for a Cheval Blanc. We can't wait to see what other gorgeous luxury resorts open their doors here in the next few years. Are you ready for the Mexican adventure?
HIGHLIGHTS
From cocktails in the hippest rooftop bar to romantic dinners with stunning views in a hacienda perched above the city's rooftops, we tell you what you must see on Mexico's Pacific coast.
1. pinnacle sky bar
Exclusive cocktails can be enjoyed at the rooftop bar "Pinnacle" in Puerto Vallarta - thanks to the swim-up bar directly in the refreshing infinity pool. Spectacular view of the Bahía de Banderas included. https://www.facebook.com/residencesskybar/
2nd Tequila and Mezcal Tasting
Want to learn more about Mexico's national drink and taste the country's finest tequila and mezcal? The best way to do that is at a tasting. The Cultural Concierge at the Four Seasons Punta Mita hosts regular blends. https://www.fourseasons.com/
3. hacienda san angel
Here you can enjoy delicious food accompanied by traditional mariachi music while the setting sun bathes the city of Puerto Vallarta below you in a warm orange. https://haciendasanangel.com/
4. whale watching
Those who come to Mexico during the winter months from November to March can experience a breathtaking natural spectacle: During this time, humpback whales come to the Bahía de Banderas to mate and give birth to their calves.
5. caleta blanca
This beach club is a dream beach belonging to the Cuixmala estate, the kind you usually only see on postcards. Full service and Beach Shack Bar included. https://cuixmala.com/
Picture credits: Davis Gerber/Cuixmala; Pinnacle Skybar; Four Seasons Punta Mita; Caleta Blanca; Hacienda San Angel; Allen Kennedy Photography; Unsplash (Todd Cravens, Herson Rodriguez).
Read more now about the most beautiful hotels on the Mexican Pacific coast!
This article appeared in the Falstaff TRAVEL issue Spring/Summer 2020.
