Cobblestones & Kindness
Hidden in the misty hills of Puebla, Zacatlán is a town that truly lives up to its Pueblo Mágico title. During one of my trips to Mexico City, a close friend from Zacatlán invited us to visit, and I’m so grateful we said yes. This town didn’t just welcome us; it embraced us.
From the moment we arrived, we were treated like family. Our friend’s relatives opened their home with warmth, love, and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like you’ve known them for years. We gathered around plates of traditional Mexican dishes, shared drinks, stories, and laughter that echoed into the night. And of course, we couldn’t miss out on Zacatlán’s infamous street hamburgers, greasy, flavorful, and completely unforgettable.
The town itself feels like a journey back in time, with cobblestone streets, rustic architecture, and a nostalgic charm that can’t be replicated. Zacatlán is known for its apple orchards and cider, its giant floral clock in the town square, and the Valle de Piedras Encimadas nearby, an otherworldly valley of stacked rock formations that looks straight out of a fairytale. Every corner of the town pulses with color, character, and culture.
“Zacatlán welcomed me like family. Cobblestone streets, mountain air, and the kind of hospitality that turns a visit into a memory you never want to leave.”
We spent part of the trip camping in nearby cabins, waking up to misty mountain views and the peaceful stillness of nature. The rolling hills around Zacatlán offer a perfect escape for hiking, reflection, or simply sipping coffee while watching clouds drift through the valley.
What stood out most, though, were the simple joys. Live music drifting from the streets, local festivals in full swing, and the warmth of a community that still values connection, tradition, and joy in everyday life.
Zacatlán wasn’t just a stop on our map, it was a heartwarming, soul-filling experience I’ll never forget. It reminded me that sometimes, the most magical places are the ones that feel like home, even when you’ve just arrived.
