Zacatlán, Mexico: Part 2 -Local Cusine & Unique Traditions

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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