Loreto English
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◈ Seen from afar and from an elevated perspective, the Magical Town of Loreto makes an impact for many reasons. It seems to be a place where only the most fortunate live.
Loreto has conserved the traditions of a fishing town, and yet it is cosmopolitan; it seems isolated, but there is so much to do; it’s simple, but nearby is one of the world’s top golf courses. The Sea of Cortez and the Sierra de la Giganta are its most precious treasures, but it also has colonial missions and cave paintings. All of this will beguile you.
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- Horseback riding along the beach and its surroundings.
- Mountain biking or hiking in Sierra de la Giganta.
- See the old salt mine: Bahía Salinas, on Isla del Carmen.
Observe grey and blue whales, the largest on the planet, off the coast of Isla del Carmen; a meeting point for cetacean lovers (between January and March).
❖ San Francisco Javier Mission
It is considered the jewel in the crown of Baja California Peninsula’s missions thanks to its unique architecture and history. Inside you will find a gilded Baroque altarpiece made of carved wood, dedicated to San Francisco Javier.
The mission was established in 1699, close to the Biaundó ojo de agua (natural spring water pool), 19 miles from Loreto. Don’t leave the area before visiting this historical treasure in Baja California Sur, and admiring it close-up.
❖ Baja California Missions Museum
Exhibited here are around 300 pieces, among them archeological remains, paintings and sacred sculptures.
It is located in an 18th-century convent. Exhibited here are around 300 pieces, among them archeological remains, paintings, and sacred sculptures from the 17th and 18th centuries, bells, incense-burners, and old documents such as the historic catechism printed in 1681, and the clergy’s comments book from 1701.
❖ Sierra de la Giganta and Sierra de Guadalupe
Together these sierras make a mountainous corridor that is the best conserved area in the whole state. They are both biosphere reserves with astonishing volcanic landscapes. These sierras are home to bighorn sheep. If you go to Loreto, don’t miss the opportunity to visit this magical place.
Image: Kirt Edblom
❖ Enjoy the Loreto Bay National Marine Park
Visit this beautiful setting of sand and sea, ideal for ecotourism activities and rural tourism such as sport fishing and sailing. Take the opportunity to see the area’s missions and cave paintings.
The bay is made up of the following islands: Isla Coronado, del Carmen, Danzante, Montserrat and Santa Catalina. This is the home of the largest number of Mexican marine mammals: dolphins, blue whales, fin whales, Bryde’s whales, humpback whales, sperm whales, orcas and sea lions.
It is also a shelter for the grey whale that travels 10,000 miles to mate or give birth to its offspring. If you want to have an up-close experience with these mammals and with blue whales, you must visit Isla del Carmen sometime between January and March.
❖ Kayaking and paddle boarding in the sea.
Both activities will allow you to appreciate and enjoy the amazing landscapes that the Sierra de la Giganta and the Sea of Cortez offer at all times. Don’t miss the opportunity to live this unique experience in Loreto.
❖ Horseback Riding on the Beach and its Surroundings
In the company of a local expert, travel on horseback to see the desert’s main natural attractions, the Sea of Cortez, and the Magical Town of Loreto, on a trip that lasts nearly three hours.
During the ride you will learn more about the region’s endemic flora and fauna; as well as the history of its old inhabitants, the arrival of the missionaries and what life was like back then. You will enjoy the landscapes of Sierra de la Giganta and the Sea of Cortez.
❖ Pilgrimage by sea and land of the Virgen del Carmen
This is one of the most deeply rooted traditions in the Magical Town of Loreto. It takes place on the first Sunday of July on Carmen Island, where the chapel in her honor is located.
The procession takes place from the bay of Loreto to the aforementioned chapel. It is a very important religious festivity in which hundreds of Loretanos participate.
