So people just live close to an active volcano? Asked my horrified husband when I was telling him about the Popo and his weekly (sometimes daily) explosions. Not only that, I answered, but you have thriving towns close to it, that sometimes, shake or wake full of ashes…. If you think about it, living besides a volcano is a bit nuts, but it’s also oh so beautiful, the vistas are stunning and well, people just go on with their lives, admittedly with a huge photo collection.
One of those lucky/unlucky towns is Atlixco, Pueblo Magico, a mere 2:30 hours from Mexico City. This little town is perfect for a weekend plan or if you’re an early riser a good day trip to watch volcanoes and get your plant fix.
Atlixco claims to have “the best climate in the world” not sure if that’s true but darn is it pleasant, warm, but not too warm, sunny and blue skies with a so very colourful downtown and a booming flower/plant market where you can spend hours deciding between a carnivorous plant, an orchid, or very odd plants that can only be found here. Forget all that you have seen in Mexico, this is the place where Mexican florists come to source their plants, and that means not only that you have amazing prices but also that you will find some very particular and exotic plants.
Head to the Zocalo (downtown), - on the weekends, this place is full of vendors, you can find VERY cheap pots, and some nice delicacies like raw honey (honeycomber included!). - Don’t forget to try an ice cream in one of the many parlours surrounding the zocalo, they have interesting flavours like Rose Petals, Chile en Nogada and Mezcal. Ice cream on hand, walk your way towards the Escalera Ancha that hides a nice surprise all the way to the bottom and if you’re feeling energetic walk your way up to the Cerro de San Miguel, where you can have a breathtaking view of the volcanoes.
Once you’re done exploring the very quaint town, go to plant heaven! Atlixco is also known as Atlixco de las Flores, and once you arrive to the viveros, you’ll see why, small, tall, exotic plants will surround you. Make sure you have enough space in your car because we can assure you, you will end at least with one or two beautiful plants to bring home. If you’re not driving don’t’ worry, just to watch all the greenery is mesmerising and very relaxing.
We never take lightly our food options and the good news is Atlixco is in Puebla that is known for their quintessential Poblano food. Try the Mole Poblano, the Chalupas or the Pipian (a mole made of pumpkin seeds). If you want to splurge head to Los Alcatraces a beautiful boutique hotel that has its own orchid house and well manicured gardens. Actually stay the night and take advantage of their spa, while you admire the black swan and the peacocks stroll lazily around the property.
Last but not least, DA VIEW! Atlixco is very close to the Popocatépetl and if you happen to drive from Mexico city you will see the imposing views of both the Popo & the Izta on the road. Once you arrive to Atlixco Don Goyo (like the locals call him) will follow you across town but for us, our favourite spot is all the way on the top of the Cerro de San Miguel. We are not alone, in September the biggest festivity happens in this area. The Huey Atlixcayotl is a beautiful celebration of all the different ethnic groups of the State of Puebla. It takes place the last Saturday of September, but that, my friends is for another post!
Why we love it: The volcano views are amazing & the plant shopping
Who it's perfect for: Anyone looking to buy plants
Time to stay: Daytrip/1 night if you want to take it slowly
Where to find it: 2 hours and 40 mins in Puebla
When to go: Any weekend
Additional Info: Pots in the Zocalo are 20pesos!
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