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Santiago
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I t's easy to see why Mexico designates Santiago as one of its select Pueblos Mágicos ("Magical Towns"). A serene destination on the west bank of La Boca reservoir and dam, it's known for the many waterfalls and canyons that rush through the surrounding Sierra Madre mountains. Less than an hour south from Monterrey, it's a stunning example of modern Mexico's exurban life and spellbinding nature coexisting in harmony. Here you'll find flagstone zòcalos (town squares), a city center with those colorful colonial-style paint jobs, and parks and watersports that range from the leisurely to the truly extreme. And as the sun goes down, wildlife lovers can watch half a million bats stream out of the Cueva de los Murcielagos. Santiago is a magical town indeed.
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Nearby you'll find the Cumbres de Monterrey National Park where you can hike or drive to the top of Cerro de la Silla ("Saddle Hill") which overlooks Monterrey. The park is a popular destination for climbing, cycling, spelunking and canyoning, too. For mild hikes with more infrastructure, look to La Estanzuela. More intrepid outdoorspeople can check out Matacanes canyon network. No matter what your fun, it's recommended to go in groups and early in the day to beat the heat.
The center of Santiago is the Plaza de Ocampo, a triangular zòcalo lined with shops, accommodations and restaurants done in Spanish colonial style and colors, including the brilliant Parish of Saint James the Apostle church. At La Boca reservoir, kayaking and other water activities abound for your pleasure. However, the headline water feature is the waterfall Cola de Caballo, a divine setting easily accessed after a short hike—or horseback ride.
For shopping, look no further than Los Cavazos. Beginning north of town, the highway is lined with local artisans and vendors offering everything from fine handmade furniture to sweets (apple treats, especially, are huge here) to those spectacular Saltillo blankets. For gastronomy, Santiago boasts its own scrumptious take on cabrito al pastor, a young spit-roasted goat seasoned with tomato and guajillo chiles.
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