Hiking wasn’t my primary concern when I RSVP-ed to a destination wedding in an architecturally stunning town in central Mexico.
Sipping margaritas and strolling romantic cobblestone streets sprang to mind – as well as the thrill of witnessing an old friend’s major milestone.
San Miguel de Allende instantly charmed me with its friendly aura and glorious colonial buildings. I swooned at the sight of carved stone features and stately door knockers – one in the shape of an ear of corn. My heart leapt when my friend, Los Angeles Times reporter Andrew Campa, said “I do” in a perfectly pink Catholic church that doubles as the town’s iconic landmark.
My partner Emanuel and I feasted, visually and literally. But on our third day, itching for movement – and insight into what lay beyond the crowded main square – we abandoned the “vacay” vibes and set out to hike a route listed on the All Trails app.
The grip of tourist trappings quickly melted away. We trekked through a small hamlet, then up long, dusty roads, past ranches and a monastery. A turn-off took us on to a dirt trail that hugged a dry stream bed before winding through a settlement. Earlier that day, I wondered if it was absurd to spend hours hiking in a destination known for its urban delights. Now I longed to venture deep into the wild hills.
Without enough time to complete the whole route – a loop of nearly 10km – we turned around after two hours.
Hiking, jogging and even walking in a new city can provide a unique perspective – and allow you to break away from the typical tourist haunts.
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