7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Monterrey

Monterrey, is a bustling city known for its vibrant culture, modern amenities, and proximity to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the country. Digital nomads living in Monterrey have the unique opportunity to explore a variety of weekend getaways that offer everything from historical sites and natural wonders to off-the-beaten-path adventures. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, or immerse yourself in local culture, these seven destinations provide the perfect escape from the city life.

Chipinque Ecological Park

Just a short drive from Monterrey, Chipinque Ecological Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled in the Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range, this park offers breathtaking views, hiking trails for all levels, and the chance to spot local wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a day of mountain biking, rock climbing, or simply picnicking amidst the serene landscape.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Chipinque Ecological Park is by car, which takes about 30 minutes from downtown Monterrey.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the sunrise or sunset from the park's lookout points – the views of Monterrey and the surrounding mountains are spectacular.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel Chipinque for its rustic charm and stunning mountain views.

Where to Eat: The park's own restaurant, La Meseta, offers delicious local cuisine with a view that can't be beaten.

Santiago

The charming town of Santiago is a popular weekend getaway for those looking to experience a more traditional side of Mexico. With its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and tranquil atmosphere, Santiago is perfect for a relaxing retreat. Visitors can explore the local museums, take a boat ride on the Presa de la Boca, or visit the nearby Cola de Caballo waterfall.

How to Get There: Santiago is about a 40-minute drive from Monterrey, making it an easy day trip or weekend destination.

Travel Tip: Visit the local market on weekends to find handcrafted souvenirs and taste the regional specialties.

Where to Stay: Hacienda Cola de Caballo offers a comfortable stay with the added bonus of being close to the waterfall.

Where to Eat: Las Palomas de Santiago is a must-visit for their traditional Mexican dishes and charming ambiance.

García Caves

The García Caves, or Grutas de García, are a geological wonder located just outside Monterrey. These ancient caves are filled with stunning formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and guided tours offer insight into their history and formation. The cable car ride to the cave entrance also provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

How to Get There: The caves are about a 45-minute drive from Monterrey, and public transportation options are also available.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as the caves can be cool and damp inside.

Where to Stay: There are several local hotels in the nearby town of García, offering a range of accommodations.

Where to Eat: After exploring the caves, enjoy some local cuisine at one of the small restaurants in García town.

Cascada de Cusárare

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Cascada de Cusárare is a hidden gem. This stunning waterfall is located within the Sierra Tarahumara and offers a peaceful escape into nature. The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy and the reward is a picturesque scene perfect for a picnic or a refreshing swim in the natural pool.

How to Get There: Reaching Cascada de Cusárare requires a drive to the town of Creel, followed by a guided tour or hike to the waterfall.

Travel Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Copper Canyon for a full weekend of exploration.

Where to Stay: There are several lodges and cabins in Creel, such as Hotel Villa Mexicana, which offer a cozy mountain experience.

Where to Eat: Enjoy traditional Raramuri dishes at Restaurante Veronica in Creel, known for its authentic flavors.

Parras de la Fuente

Parras de la Fuente is a picturesque town known for its wineries and historical significance. As the home of the oldest winery in the Americas, Casa Madero, visitors can enjoy wine tastings and tours of the vineyards. The town's tranquil streets, colonial architecture, and local museums make it a delightful place to unwind and indulge in the local culture.

How to Get There: Parras de la Fuente is about a 3-hour drive from Monterrey, making it an ideal weekend getaway.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during the grape harvest festival in August for a truly unique experience.

Where to Stay: The boutique hotel, Hostal del Monasterio, offers a charming stay in a converted monastery.

Where to Eat: La Casona del Banco serves up gourmet dishes in a beautifully restored historic building.

Real de Catorce

Real de Catorce is a former silver mining town that now attracts visitors with its mystical allure and stunning desert landscapes. This remote town is accessed through a long tunnel and offers a step back in time with its cobblestone streets and ruins of old mines. It's also a spiritual center for the Huichol people, who make pilgrimages to the sacred mountain of Wirikuta.

How to Get There: The journey to Real de Catorce from Monterrey takes about 4 hours by car.

Travel Tip: Experience a Huichol ceremony or explore the surrounding desert on horseback for a memorable adventure.

Where to Stay: Mesón de la Abundancia is a cozy hotel with a rustic feel, located in the heart of the town.

Where to Eat: Café El Real offers a variety of local and international dishes in a quaint setting.

Xilitla and the Surrealist Garden of Edward James

Xilitla is a small town in the state of San Luis Potosí, famous for the Surrealist Garden of Edward James, a British artist who created a fantastical sculpture garden in the heart of the jungle. The garden features whimsical concrete structures that blend with the natural environment, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The town itself is also worth exploring, with its coffee plantations and waterfalls.

How to Get There: Xilitla is about a 6-hour drive from Monterrey, but the unique experience is well worth the journey.

Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and fully immerse yourself in the surreal landscape.

Where to Stay: Posada El Castillo is a charming hotel that was once the home of Edward James himself.

Where to Eat: Café de la Finca offers a great selection of coffee and light bites, perfect for refueling after exploring the gardens.