Just a couple of hours from Mexico City is Real del Monte, also known as Mineral del Monte, one of the coldest and most historic Pueblos Mágicos (Magical Towns) in the country.
Its climate, architecture, and traditions have earned it the nickname “the little Mexican Cornwall, “ and you only need to walk through its cobbled streets to understand why.
This mining town played a key role in historical moments such as the first strike in the Americas and the origin of soccer in Mexico, a sport that was brought over by English miners in the 19th century.
Photo by Tomas Martinez on Unsplash
In fact, the first soccer game in the country was played here. All this takes place among mountains, constant fog, and cold air, making it a perfect destination for winter getaways.
In addition, Real del Monte is part of the Mountain Corridor, a tourist route that connects other picturesque towns in Hidalgo, making it ideal for a full weekend away from the city.
Must-sees in Real del Monte
Photo by Diego Delso / Wikimedia
One of the most emblematic sites is the English Cemetery, built in 1851, famous for its tombs facing England and for the stories surrounding former miners and figures such as Richard Bell.
The visit continues at the Paste Museum, where you can learn about the origins of this typical dish inherited from Cornwall. Here, you not only learn about its history, but you can also make your own paste at the end of the tour.
For a breath of fresh air, there is El Hiloche Forest, ideal for peaceful walks, viewpoints, and picnics among the pine trees.
If you want to understand the town’s mining past, La Dificultad Mine offers a tour of life underground and the historic machinery that shaped the region.
The more adventurous can go to Peñas Cargadas, a natural area with huge rock formations where you can go hiking, rappelling, and zip-lining.
Finally, the Capilla del Señor de Zelontla chapel completes the tour with a glimpse into local religious devotion and traditions.
How to get there?
Getting to Real del Monte by car from Mexico City takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and your starting point.
The most common route is via the Mexico–Pachuca highway and then the road to Mineral del Monte. There are toll booths along the way, and the total cost is usually between $60 and $80 pesos per car, although this may vary slightly.
Real del Monte is cold, mysterious, and deeply charming: a nearby destination that feels like traveling to another country without leaving central Mexico.