1. First up, we headed to the Mirador La Peña viewpoint, a local gem where the entrance fee is just 25 pesos per person. The climb itself takes about 10-15 minutes and reaches an impressive elevation of 1,860 meters. However, don’t expect a sleek viewing platform at the top — it’s all natural rock formations! To capture the perfect photo, you’ll need to carefully clamber onto the rocks for that stunning panoramic view.
📍Address: Cam. a La Pena 114, La Peña, 51200 Valle de Bravo, Méx., Mexico
Personal opinion: Not particularly memorable. ⭐⭐
2. Continuing our journey, we made our way to Embarcadero Municipal Valle de Bravo.
📍Address: Fray Gregorio Jiménez de La Cuenca s/n, La Estrella, 51200 Valle de Bravo, Méx., Mexico
[On the drive, keep an eye out for the iconic check-in statue along the route. Unfortunately, we didn’t stop to snap a picture this time.]
📍Address: Atardecer 121A, Sta Maria Ahuacatlan, 51200 Valle de Bravo, Méx., Mexico
At Embarcadero Municipal, we decided to take a thrilling one-hour speedboat ride for 1,200 pesos. Our guide mentioned that fishing is popular here but recommended doing it before 9 AM. By 11 AM, though, the fish were clearly on a lunch break — not a single bite! [Cue laughter-filled disappointment.]
Personal opinion: Even without catching anything, cruising through the breeze was still a blast. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Paragliding
Today wasn’t meant to be for paragliding. Between the earlier mountain hike and my lingering cough, I started feeling short of breath due to the altitude. We opted to skip it, but after asking around, we learned that flights last about 20 minutes and cost between 1,600 and 1,800 pesos per person. Plus, they offer professional photo and video services so you can relive the experience later.
Personal opinion: If heights don’t faze you, this would’ve been unforgettable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. For lunch, we turned to the locals for advice and ended up at Los Pericos, a charming boat restaurant floating on the lake. The service was prompt and friendly, and the food arrived quickly. While the flavors weren’t mind-blowing, they hit the spot without any complaints.
Personal opinion: Decent enough for a meal. ⭐⭐⭐
P.S.: Alternatively, consider smaller nearby restaurants offering mini tours around the lake as part of your dining experience.
5. Velo de Novia Waterfall
No entrance fee applies here, but let’s be honest — it’s nothing extraordinary. In fact, we didn’t bother going all the way down; instead, we stopped halfway at the middle platform before turning back. Along the trail, there are horseback riding options if you’d like to spice things up.
📍Address: Manzana 025, San Lorenzo, 51200 Valle de Bravo, State of Mexico, Mexico
Personal opinion: If you’re into nature and scenic spots, it’s worth a quick detour. ⭐⭐
P.S.: Be mindful while driving in town — the roads are riddled with potholes, so proceed cautiously. And brace yourself for the toll booths! From Mexico City, expect multiple stops (nearly 10 round trip), which might make you chuckle (or groan) depending on your mood. [Insert laugh-cry emoji R]
