Exploring the Charm of San Miguel de Allende with Friends

Riding High and Finding Peace

Another day in San Miguel de Allende, and another opportunity to soak in the beauty and culture of this amazing city. Today was a blend of adventure and tranquility, a perfect balance that left me feeling invigorated and at peace. Join me as I recount our horseback riding escapade and a visit to a stunning church.

The day started with a hearty breakfast at La Tradicional de Salgado. Olivia and I were excited to try some authentic Mexican breakfast dishes. I went for the huevos rancheros, while Olivia opted for the chilaquiles. Both were delicious and gave us the energy we needed for the day ahead. It's always a great way to start the day by immersing ourselves in the local cuisine.


Discover authentic Mexican sweets at La Tradicional de Salgado, Celaya's premier candy store offering traditional delights and artisanal treats.

After breakfast, we met up with our friends for our adventure at Coyote Canyon Adventures. I had booked a full-day horseback riding tour, and I couldn't wait to explore the countryside. The drive to the ranch was scenic, and the anticipation was building as we got closer. I had read online that Coyote Canyon Adventures is a family-owned company specializing in adventure and ecotourism, so I knew we were in good hands.


Experience the thrill of adventure amidst the stunning landscapes of San Miguel de Allende with Coyote Canyon Adventures, where nature and excitement collide.

Arriving at the ranch, we were greeted by our friendly hosts and the sight of well-trained horses. I felt a surge of excitement, remembering my childhood days spent riding horses back in Arizona. It had been a while, but I was ready to get back in the saddle. The staff at Coyote Canyon Adventures were wonderful and shared a lot of information about the area.

We saddled up and began our ride through the stunning landscapes of Coyote Canyon. The horses were gentle and responsive, making the ride enjoyable for everyone, even those who were less experienced. The canyon views were breathtaking, with towering rock formations and lush greenery. It felt like stepping into a movie set. I tried to capture as many photos as possible, wanting to remember every detail of this incredible experience.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

During our ride, we had the chance to interact with the local ranchers, who were incredibly welcoming and shared stories about their lives and the history of the area. It was fascinating to learn about the traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations. We even stopped by the river for a delicious campfire lunch, complete with freshly made quesadillas and grilled meats. It was the perfect way to refuel before continuing our ride.

After our horseback riding adventure, we decided to visit the Church of the Immaculate Conception, also known as Las Monjas. I had read about its stunning architecture and historical significance, and I wanted to see it for myself. The church is known locally as Las Monjas, or “The Nuns,” and was originally built as part of an extensive housing complex. It now serves as a convent for nuns of the order of the Immaculate Conception.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and cultural significance of the Church of the Immaculate Conception in San Miguel de Allende, a true architectural gem.

As we approached the church, I was immediately struck by its elegant dome and intricate details. The church was built between 1755 and 1842, and the dome was added by Don Zeferino Gutiérrez in 1891, who based its construction on the church of Les Invalides in Paris. The interior was just as impressive, with beautiful paintings and ornate decorations. The peaceful atmosphere was a welcome contrast to the excitement of our horseback riding adventure.

We spent some time exploring the church, admiring the artwork and learning about its history. It was a truly spiritual experience, and I felt a sense of peace and serenity wash over me. Olivia, who is always drawn to places of historical significance, was particularly moved by the church's story and the dedication of the nuns who have called it home for centuries. I managed to capture some great photographs; the light filtering through the stained-glass windows created a magical effect.

After our visit to the church, we were ready for a late lunch. We headed to Don Taco Tequila, a restaurant known for its creative vegan tacos. I was curious to see how they could make tacos without meat, but I was pleasantly surprised. The tacos were packed with flavor, and the salsas were amazing. Olivia especially enjoyed the Jamaica margaritas, which were the perfect complement to our meal. I had read that Don Taco Tequila is considered one of the best restaurants, and I would agree. It was an excellent choice for a casual and satisfying meal.


Experience vibrant vegan Mexican cuisine at Don Taco Tequila in San Miguel de Allende – where fresh flavors meet local tradition.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Antonia Rooftop for dinner. I had heard great things about the rooftop bistro, known for its haute cuisine and panoramic views of San Miguel de Allende. The rooftop terrace had a relaxed and sophisticated ambiance, with stunning views of the city's historical monuments. We found a table with a perfect view of the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, which was bathed in golden light.


Experience exquisite dining at Antonia Rooftop, where gourmet cuisine meets stunning views in San Miguel de Allende's vibrant atmosphere.

The menu at Antonia Rooftop was a mix of local and international cuisine, with several vegan options. We started with the smoked salmon tartare toasts, which were delicious. For our main courses, I ordered the New York steak, while Olivia opted for one of the vegan options. The food was beautifully presented and tasted even better than it looked. The service was attentive, and the staff made us feel welcome.

Before heading back to the hotel, we decided to stop by La Azotea for a nightcap. This rooftop bar is known for its wide selection of craft cocktails and its lively atmosphere. It’s located half a block from the Jardin Principal. We ordered a couple of margaritas and enjoyed the music and the company of our friends. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with adventure and serenity.


Discover La Azotea, a vibrant grill and tapas bar in San Miguel de Allende, where local flavors, live music, and stunning views await every visitor.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am grateful for the opportunity to explore San Miguel de Allende with my friends. The blend of adventure and tranquility was exactly what I needed. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Casa Museo José Alfredo Jiménez and the Museo Histórico Casa de Allende, so another day filled with culture and history awaits.

I'm also trying to remember to buy that Spanish phrasebook I forgot to pack! It would definitely come in handy as we continue to explore this beautiful country.

Until tomorrow!