Bernal, Queretaro.

Just two hours from Mexico City we can find a beautiful small town called Bernal. As old as the history of Mexico, Bernal is visited not just for its graceful streets and alleys, but also because of its famous "Peña".

The "Peña de Bernal" is the 3rd highest monolith on earth, with an estimated height of 350 meters from its base to the top. It was formed between 65 to 180 millions years ago from the chimney of a volcano, which with the time eroded to its current shape. Its age has created a lot of stories and legends, one of the most famous tells us about a treasure hidden somewhere it its heart. Some other stories describe the often visits of UFO's and creatures form other worlds to its top.

Whatever the truth is, it is very good spot to practice climbing for trained or untrained climbers. Getting to Bernal is not difficult. If you drive from Mexico City you have to take the 57 Hwy to Queretaro. After a 1 hour 30 minutes driving - and two toll booths - you will find the exit to Bernal, just before the exit to San Luis Potosi. From there it will be 39 kilometers to the entrance of Bernal. You can either leave your car in one of the parking zones near the road or drive it to the downtown area where you can park it as well. Another option is to drive your car to the entrance of the climbing area where you can find parking too. The town is very small so it won't make a big difference where you park.

This is the building where you need to register your group prior to start climbing. You have to write down your name, number of members of the group, origin and time. The park is closed at 6:00 pm. If you have not come down by then someone will look for you.

The way to the top is marked by arrows painted in the stone but you have to make sure to take comfortable boots with you because it is not easy to go up. As for water you don't need to worry, there are people selling bottled water almost everywhere. If you are untrained in the climbing art you're just allowed to go to half way to the top. There is a small chapel dedicated to San Judas Tadeo and you have wonderful views in any direction you see. Besides, if you're lucky, you can get to se some experts climbing.

But, If climbing is not your idea of fun, you can also visit Bernal Downtown. With the traditional Mexican architecture some of the buildings are 300 years old, and many still have the original painting in their walls. And, for sure, worderful views are exclusive of the heights.

This page hosted by get your own Free Home Page