San Luis Potosí

San Luis Potosí brings together unusual art sites, archaeological remains, vibrant traditions and remarkably varied landscapes. In the Huasteca Potosina, waterfalls and river scenery are among the highlights, as is the archaeological site of Tamtoc. Farther north, Real de Catorce is shaped by its mining history. When choosing a holiday apartment, it is therefore worth first considering which places and experiences you want to focus on during your trip.

Sculpture and Huasteca history

Las Pozas, Edward James’s surrealist sculpture garden, is in La Conchita, in the municipality of Xilitla. Natural and man-made waterfalls and pools are part of its distinctive design. The garden covers almost nine hectares and contains 27 buildings, structures and sculptures in total. A private experience at the Jardín Escultórico Edward James also includes access to exclusive areas or areas with restricted access. Las Pozas offers different perspectives on the connection between gardens and art.

The archaeological site of Tamtoc reveals other aspects of Huasteca history: pyramids, monoliths, stelae, murals, circular architecture and stone sculptures such as the Venus of Tamtoc. During a visit, you can see Monument 32 in the La Noria area, also known as La Sacerdotisa, as well as canal systems and Laguna de los Patos. Those wishing to explore archaeological topics further can find an important Huasteca collection at the Museo Regional Potosino. The Sala Huasteca covers the region’s geography, ethnic and funerary customs, chronology and society. There is also an important gallery of art from the viceregal period.

Mining history and landscapes around Real de Catorce

Real de Catorce is an old mining settlement founded around 1778 and one of the state’s most important tourist attractions. The 2.3-kilometer-long Túnel de Ogarrio passes through solid rock to Real de Catorce. Horseback excursions and trips in rentable Willys vehicles are available locally. They travel over rough roads, semiarid plains and high-altitude landscapes. Those interested in the town’s history can also visit the Temple of the Purísima Concepción: it houses an image of San Francisco de Asís, venerated by hundreds of pilgrims every year on October 4.

Water, crafts and regional traditions

Aquismón combines cultural and scenic experiences. The Indigenous languages Teenek, Náhuatl and Xi’u are spoken there, and embroiderers display their textile work at the local market. The Cascada de Tamul is accessible from Aquismón. You can row along the Río Tampaón through landscapes shaped by canyons. Traditional rituals are still practiced in the Cueva de El Aguacate. The waterfall, river and cultural encounters appeal to different interests that may influence your choice of accommodation.

In the workshops of Santa María del Río, artisans make rebozos using ikat and backstrap-loom weaving techniques. The Rebozo de bolita comes from this area. Local dishes include Asado de boda, Barbacoa and Nopales en escabeche. In Ciudad del Maíz, art, Indigenous traditions and cuisine come together: in the municipality of El Tepeyac are two murals designed by Diego Rivera and executed by his students, “Ritual de una alegoría” and “Transformación del Tepeyac.” The Indigenous Semana Santa Xi’lui is a more than 300-year-old Xi-’Iui tradition involving dance and spirituality. It includes the Caballito de San Martín Caballero dance in Ejido San José. Guiso borracho, made with meat, vegetables and pulque, is part of a local Pame culinary tradition.

Crafts and leisurely outings

Tierra Nueva also offers several distinct reasons to visit. Presa La Muñeca is recommended for sport fishing and peaceful camping. September celebrations include jaripeos and dances. At the Palmoro Hats factory, you can see how straw hats are made by hand. Another natural attraction is the Cascada de Rancho El Zapote, also known as Poza Azul: its turquoise water is surrounded by lush vegetation. Finally, the Ruinas de El Jopoy are the remains of a Spanish structure built in 1522, which many historians consider the first church in the Huasteca.

Whether your interests lie more in archaeological sites, art and crafts, river landscapes or regional traditions, focus your search for a holiday apartment on the places you are most keen to explore. To help plan the rest of your trip around the state, you can also find Ciudad Valles, San Luis Potosí, Villa De Reyes, Carmen, El Nogalito, La Pila, Ranchito, Soledad De Graciano Sánchez, Alfred M. Terrazas, Xilitla, Tamasopo, Río Verde, El Naranjo, Herradura, Catorce, Santa Maria Del Rio, Pozos, Tamazunchale, Los Puentes, Axtla De Terrazas, Salinas De Hidalgo, Refugio, El Charco De Piedras, Matehuala, Tierra Nueva, Damián Carmona, Cedral, Antiguo Tamuín, El Mastranto, Catorce, Huehuetlán, Charcas and Tanchachín.

For an overview of the wider trip: Mexico.