Before arriving to Bernal, from the sideway, we can appreciate the big rock that totally governs the view of the semi-desert. La Peña is the third biggest monolith in the world. At its base we find the Villa de San Sebastian of Bernal, named Magic Town for its traditions, historic relevance and cultural manifestations richness. Here, life hope is of 90 years, it is not known if it is due to La Peña´s positive energy, the calmness of the town or its culinary delights.
With 350 meters of height, 4´000,000 tones and 10´000,000 years of antiquity, La Peña de Bernal is the third biggest monolith in the world after the Peñón de Gibraltar in Spain and the Pan de Azúcar in Brazil. It is possible to get to the top of this rock by foot by its frontal face and by rappelling by its back side with the adequate equipment and a professional guide. Pilgrimage has as reward a privileged view over the queretano extended semi-desert. At night, from the esplanade, you may be able to appreciate the crag under a light spectacle mixed with a dancing fountain harmonically arranged.
If having climbed the crag left you really tired, Bernal counts with many options for a night of rest. The majority of them are small hotels or adapted houses like inns, people who attend them are very kind and the establishments are of a very good quality. There are some small inns (“mesones”) with an enviable view of the monolith. Visit the hotel directory here.
 | Atención al Turista |
It is indispensable to bring boots or tennis to climb La Peña, a cap and sun-block, a bottle of water too. It is recommendable as well, to bring comfortable clothing to walk and know the “Pueblo Mágico”.
When you get to Santiago de Queretaro, come to the Secretary of Tourism. We have here all the information you could require to travel. You can find us on Pasteur 4 Norte, next to the Casa del Corregimiento, just a few steps from the Plaza de Armas. We are open from Monday to Sunday from 9:00 to 20:00 hrs. If you have any doubt or comment, call us at (442) 238 5067 or at 01 800 715 1742. You can write to us too, at info@queretaro.
In the artisanal and gastronomic market, or at the bordering alleys at the Main Garden, you may be able to try the exquisite “gorditas” made of broken corn that the ladies of the town prepare, ideal to restore the strength after having climbed the crag. We have to warn you about the corn smell that can make you go back home with a couple of extra pounds; we are really sorry, but it´s inevitable. Besides the stands that offer “gorditas”, “tacos”, “sopes” and other local delights, Bernal counts with many restaurants of Mexican and international food that allow you to enjoy, with a glass of regional whine, the calmness of the “Magic Town”.
 | llegando a Bernal |
By car, take the federal highway Mexico- Querétaro 57 until the diversion to the Sierra Gorda, incorporate to the state highway 100 and at 34 KM you will find Bernal.
The town is easily traveled by foot, if you brought a car you can leave it by the town edges, there are plenty of available and safe parking lots.
The bus Terminal in Santiago de Queretaro has regular departures to Bernal that offer different types of services and prices.
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