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Whether you’re a tequila lover or just looking for a unique and memorable experience, the town of Tequila and the Matices Hotel has so much to offer. So, grab your passport and prepare for a trip you’ll never forget!
As a UNESCO enthusiast, I was super chuffed that another UNESCO World Heritage Site was checked off from my list of sites to visit! It is one of the most memorable UNESCO sites I’ve seen.
From the Tequila Volcano’s foothills and along the Rio Grande River’s valley lies a vibrant agave culture, deeply woven into Mexico’s identity. It includes the charming towns of Tequila, Arenal, and Amatitan, showcasing expansive distilleries where the agave ‘pineapple’ undergoes fermentation and distillation. Notably, this land is testimony to the ancient Teuchitlan cultures, who flourished in the Tequila area from AD 200-900. Their legacy is evident in the terraced fields for farming, residential areas, temples, ceremonial sites, and ball courts that dot the landscape.
Tequila offers more than just tequila. Situated in Jalisco, this historic town beckons exploration. Its town center boasts stunning colonial architecture, and there are numerous museums and cultural sites to discover.
One of the highlights is the Jose Cuervo distillery, where you can delve into tequila’s history and production process. Explore the National Museum of Tequila, in a former distillery, to immerse yourself in the town’s cultural heritage.
At the Municipal Palace of Tequila is a stunning mural that illustrates the origin of tequila. You can see it even if the offices are closed. The physical address of the Municipal Palace of Tequila, where you’ll find the mural, is on Juárez Street, right in the heart of Tequila town. You can’t miss it—it’s a grand building that stands out with its traditional architecture and cultural significance.
Tequila’s natural beauty beckons outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the 2743 m high Tequila Volcano and Rio Grande de Santiago, or embark on hiking trails. Opt for horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective.
Indulge in Tequila’s delectable street food scene, featuring tacos, tamales, and elote (grilled corn on the cob). For upscale dining, visit La Cata restaurant for innovative twists on Mexican classics.
Don’t miss the annual Tequila Festival in late July, celebrating all things tequila with music, dance, and tastings.
Get the most from your time in Tequila: Traveler Recommendations | Food & Drink | Day Trips | Sightseeing on Wheels | Family-Friendly Activities | Walking Tours | Nature & Adventure
Shows, Musicals & Festivals: If you can’t make it to the town of Tequila, find a tequila festival near you!
Not knowing what I was eating, I tasted one of the four adventurous dishes available: Escamoles, also known as ant larvae. In Mexico, they’re considered a delicacy, harvested from ants of the Liometopum genus. They have a unique nutty, buttery flavor and were served as a starter before our main course. However, as someone who isn’t typically adventurous with food, this was as far as I ventured.
My friends dove into the remaining adventurous dishes on offer. They savored Chapulines, which are toasted or fried grasshoppers seasoned with chili powder, served as a crunchy snack.
They also tried Maguey worms, the larvae of a moth that feeds on the maguey plant, which is used to make tequila. “Roasted to perfection”, they’re said to boast a smoky, meaty flavor.
As for Huitlacoche, a fungus that grows on corn and is considered a delicacy in Mexico, it was used in quesadillas, lending them a dark, earthy flavor.
Recommended read: Make your own Quesadillas!
Hola! Let me tell you about my recent romantic stay at the Matices Hotel de Barricas next to a Tequila Brewery just outside the Mexican town of Tequila.
The location of Matices Hotel de Barricas is absolutely perfect if you’re looking to explore the world of tequila. It’s built around a working distillery. The benefit is that at the drop of a hat you can do tequila tastings, go on guided tours, and visit the on-site museum.
The Matices Hotel de Barricas is ingeniously designed to resemble a barrel, perfectly blending with its surroundings. Each room, nestled inside a large wooden barrel, offers captivating views of the agave fields through circular windows. The interior decor varies from barrel to barrel, adding an element of excitement to exploration.
What truly sets the hotel apart is its meticulous attention to detail. Every aspect, from decor to amenities, is carefully chosen to immerse guests in an authentic Mexican experience. For instance, the toiletries are infused with tequila, and the mini-bars feature local tequila brands. Additionally, the hotel offers a range of tequila tastings and tours, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the world of tequila fully.
Shake things up and book your next vacation in a wine barrel!
The hotel’s restaurant, “El Gachupín,” deserves a mention. A must-visit for guests and Tequila visitors alike, it boasts a warm ambiance with traditional Mexican decor and a cozy fireplace. Offering a diverse menu of Mexican delights like chiles en nogada, mole, and pozole, alongside seafood, vegetarian options, and international fare, it caters to all tastes.
Dining at El Gachupín is a treat for the senses. Each dish is artfully presented, showcasing fresh, vibrant ingredients that capture Mexico’s essence. With ample portions and reasonable prices, it’s a fantastic value.
The restaurant also boasts an impressive selection of tequilas and spirits, perfectly complementing the menu. Don’t miss their signature margaritas, crafted with fresh lime juice and premium tequila.
Service here is top-notch, with friendly, knowledgeable staff eager to assist and accommodate dietary needs or preferences.
Overall, El Gachupín at Matices Hotel de Barricas is a great restaurant to visit for anyone looking for authentic Mexican cuisine and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The food is delicious, the presentation is beautiful, and the service is exceptional. So, if you’re in Tequila, be sure to stop by and enjoy a meal at El Gachupín.
So, to wrap up… Matices Hotel de Barricas and the town of Tequila are must-visit destinations for anyone traveling to Mexico.
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