A few blocks from Casa del Sol Inn is Lake Chapala, the largest lake in Mexico, approximately fifty miles long and about twenty miles at its widest point. Imagine a vast lake with fishermen out on the water in pangas (small boats) casting for tilapia. At the shoreline are snowy egrets or pelicans doing their own fishing. Family members gather for photo opportunities at landmarks on the boardwalk, known as a malecon, and children skip along holding tightly to glowing trinkets. As night draws on, lights begin to twinkle across the shore.
Former presidents of Mexico have had estates here. The lake is surrounded by mountains speckled with homes along the hillside and berry farms along the shores. Glorious sunsets draw couples and crowds to the lake every evening. Along the malecon, handwoven blankets, leather shoes and wall hangings show the colors and symbols central to the Mexican way of life. Women embroidering blouses and men carving wood await customers while absorbed in their lakeside crafts. Many Tapatios, locals from Guadalajara, frequent Lake Chapala for weekend trips and getaways adding to the mix of ex-pats, tourists and locals.
Book a boat tour before dusk to enjoy pastel-painted skies over serene waters. Or, enjoy a daytime ride along the lake viewing the homes and history that line its shores.
Nature and the Great Outdoors in and around Ajijic
For those who love the outdoors, there is no shortage of hiking in the surrounding mountains or ways to enjoy waterfront adventure. Many of the hikes into Ajijic’s hills begin right off the main roads and range from easy to moderate to difficult. A short, easy hike to El Tepalo Falls is popular after the rains, when the creek swells and a series of waterfalls emerge. There’s even a local hiking group that schedules regular group hikes. Take a guided tour in the mountains.
Ajijic is a spectacular bird watching destination. Over three hundred species make their home here. Lake Chapala Birders is an informal group of birdwatchers that welcomes other enthusiasts to participate. Excursions are planned monthly and close to two hundred species are often spotted throughout the month.
Golf is accessible and locally available with several courses nearby. There is a nine hole golf course on the side of a hill which brings a whole new challenge to the game! Pickle ball has gained popularity and has such found its way to several local courts. Horseback riding is a local way of life and you can spend a day exploring the town and lakeside via horseback.
The towns surrounding the lake have long found the areas water and herbs to have healing properties. Within a fifteen minute drive, you can access several thermal hot springs. Experience a Mexican mud bath followed by a natural herb scrub. Then, soak in an oatmeal or even red wine bath under the Mexican sun with expansive views of the lake. Bathe in a series of pools from hottest to coolest that flow down the hillside above Lake Chapala. End your day in an infinity pool with margaritas and guacamole served poolside.
Our friendly staff at Casa del Sol Inn is eager to share favorite activities from a local perspective and can guide you to restaurants and top tourist attractions, as well as little-known attractions. We can also provide special private tours, like a trip to the Fortaleza Tequila Distillery, founded in 1873 in Tequila. Let us help you uncover the unique experiences this region is known for, check availability and join us soon!