Exploring the Charm of San Miguel de Allende with Friends

Whispers of the Past, Visions of the Present

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey through time and nature that left me feeling both humbled and invigorated. San Miguel de Allende continues to surprise me with its hidden gems, and I'm eager to share the day's adventures.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Garambullo, a place Olivia had found online. It's a cozy spot known for its healthy Mexican dishes. I opted for the 'Karen's favorite', poached eggs bathed in a Mexican sauce. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. Ethan, of course, went for the gluten-free waffles, which disappeared in record time. Olivia enjoyed a green smoothie, praising its freshness.


Experience the vibrant flavors of San Miguel de Allende at Garambullo, where breakfast meets local culture in a cozy setting.

After breakfast, we set off to Cañada de la Virgen, an Otomi archaeological site located about an hour outside of San Miguel. The drive itself was beautiful, with rolling hills and glimpses of rural Mexican life. As a construction project manager, I’m always fascinated by ancient structures, and this site did not disappoint. It's amazing to think that this complex was occupied from around 540-1050 AD by the Otomi civilization. The site wasn't excavated until 2002, which is relatively recent, and it's still gradually gaining popularity.


Explore the ancient wonders of Cañada de la Virgen, an archaeological site near San Miguel de Allende, rich in history and stunning landscapes.

The pyramids and ceremonial grounds spoke of a sophisticated understanding of astronomy and agriculture. Our guide explained how the structures were aligned with celestial events, marking the cycles of planting and harvest. I couldn't help but imagine the people who once walked these grounds, their lives intertwined with the rhythms of the cosmos. It's humbling to stand in a place where history whispers so loudly, a stark reminder of the civilizations that came before us. As someone who spends his days building for the future, it's grounding to connect with the past.

To walk through these ancient spaces is to feel the pulse of a civilization long gone, a reminder that even the grandest structures eventually return to the earth.

After immersing ourselves in history, we craved a change of scenery and headed to El Charco del Ingenio, a botanical garden and nature reserve just a short drive from the city center. What a contrast! From ancient ruins to a vibrant celebration of Mexican flora, it was like stepping into another world.


Explore the enchanting Charco del Ingenio, a botanical garden in San Miguel de Allende, showcasing native flora, stunning landscapes, and serene wildlife.

El Charco del Ingenio is an extraordinary place, a sprawling sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of Mexican plants, especially cacti and succulents. As we wandered through the grounds, we were surrounded by an incredible variety of shapes and textures. Towering cacti stood like silent sentinels, while delicate succulents carpeted the ground in intricate patterns. Olivia, with her love for gardening, was in her element, snapping photos of every unique specimen. Ethan, surprisingly, was equally captivated, fascinated by the spiky defenses of the cacti.



The garden is more than just a collection of plants; it's a celebration of nature in all its forms. We explored the wetlands, where migratory birds flitted among the reeds, and hiked along the canyon trails, marveling at the dramatic rock formations. The air was filled with the scent of wildflowers and the sound of birdsong, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. It's a testament to what can be achieved when people come together to protect and preserve the natural world.



I learned that El Charco del Ingenio was declared a Peace Zone by the Dalai Lama in 2004, which adds another layer of significance to this special place. It's a reminder that gardens can be sanctuaries, not only for plants and animals but also for the human spirit.



For lunch, we ventured to Los Milagros, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Mexican cuisine. The atmosphere was lively, with vibrant music and colorful décor. I ordered a molcajete, a traditional dish served in a heated stone bowl, filled with a mix of meats, seafood, and vegetables. The flavors were bold and satisfying. Olivia enjoyed enchiladas, while Ethan devoured a plate of tacos. It was the perfect way to refuel after a day of exploring. I made sure to sample their extensive selection of tequilas and mezcals, while Olivia enjoyed a refreshing pineapple drink.


Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Los Milagros in San Miguel de Allende – where every dish tells a story.

After lunch, Olivia was keen to do some shopping, so we headed to mixta, a shop known for its eclectic mix of jewelry, clothing, and home décor. Olivia found a beautiful shawl woven by an indigenous women's cooperative, while I admired the collection of old photography. Ethan, surprisingly, was drawn to some colorful Chiapaneco table linens. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs and support local artisans.


Discover the artistic charm of Mixta, a boutique in San Miguel de Allende offering unique artisanal products and a glimpse into local craftsmanship.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Atrio Restaurant for dinner. Located just off the main plaza, it boasts a stunning view of the Parroquia, the iconic pink church of San Miguel. The rooftop setting was magical, with the church illuminated against the night sky. I started with a Dark Dragon negroni, while Olivia and our friends chose traditional margaritas. For starters, I had the Grilled Beet with Jocoque, which was both attractive and delicious.


Discover exquisite dining at Atrio Restaurant in San Miguel de Allende – where traditional flavors meet modern elegance amidst stunning rooftop views.

For our main courses, Olivia ordered the house special, Huacho Atrio, a whole crunchy red snapper. I opted for the Tuna Tataki, fresh tuna with a sesame crust and avocado. The food was exquisite, the service impeccable, and the ambiance unforgettable. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. The total bill for the wonderful meal, which also included a bottle of wine, was 4920 pesos, only $241 US!



Tomorrow, we're planning to explore El Mirador for panoramic views of the city, visit the Iglesia de San Francisco, and catch a performance at the Teatro Angela Peralta. I'm also looking forward to trying La Cocina, Café Del Viajero for breakfast, Restaurante Pueblo Viejo for lunch, and Moxi Restaurant for dinner. And, of course, a nightcap at San Mezcal is definitely on the cards.



San Miguel de Allende continues to enchant me with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Each day brings new discoveries, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Olivia, Ethan, and all of you. It reminds me of why I started this blog in the first place – to inspire others to step outside their comfort zones and explore the world with open eyes and open hearts.



I'm also reminded that I need to pick up a Spanish phrasebook and a reusable water bottle. Those are definitely going on the shopping list for tomorrow!