SURROUNDING AREAS, TOURING AND NOTABLE PLACES
Touring La Antigua, Cempoala and Chachalacas. Departing from the city of
Veracruz, head 25 km (15 mi) north to La Antigua, a pleasant town that was the
old port of Veracruz for 75 years and which still has 16th- and 17th-century
buildings. Among the most notable edifices are la Ermita
del Rosario, the first Christian church built in Latin
America, and another structure that was first house of conquistador Hernan Cortes. There?s also a river that runs past the town,
which is ideal for whitewater rafting and kayaking outings. Continuing along
Highway 180, about 3 km (2 mi) ahead you?ll hit a turnoff that leads to the
ancient Totonac ruins of Cempoala,
where you?ll see structures that were built with stones from a river. Cempoala means 20 waters, which is probably a reference to
the number of Totonac river villages that once
existed in the area. As you continue along Highway 180, about 7 km (4 mi) ahead
you?ll arrive at Chachalacas Beach, where you can
take a boat ride from the river to the coast. There you can also take out an
all-terrain vehicle on the sand dunes on the northern end of the beach. Keep in
mind that you can only rent the ATVs on weekends and during vacation periods.
Cordoba.
This historic city, founded in 1618, is located 129 km (80 mi) west of Veracruz
on Highway 150. Among its notable tourists attractions
is Plaza 21 de Mayo, which is one of the most beautiful squares in the nation.
There you can have a cup of delicious coffee while watching couples dance to
the rhythm of danzon music. It also has numerous
spots that are ideal for adventure-sport and ecotourism outings.
Orizaba.
Located 151 km (94 mi) from Veracruz on Highway 150, this is one of the most
developed industrial cities in the state of Veracruz. In the Historic Center
you?ll see many interesting buildings and in the surrounding areas you?ll find
beautiful natural areas with lush vegetation.
Tlacotalpan.
Located 80 km (50 mi) south of Veracruz off Highway 180. This picturesque town,
declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO, has beautiful houses with red
tile roofs and splendid arches. A strong draw here is
the procession of the Virgen de la Candelaria, which takes place on Feb. 2. During that time
of year, you?ll see parades, bull runs and numerous stalls serving regional
food. For five nights you can also listen to the region?s best son jarocho groups.
