Getting Oriented

Getting Oriented

Also referred to as the Bajío, this area (parts of the Guanajuato, Querétaro, and Michoacán states) really is the heartland of Mexico—geographically and historically. This is where men fought and died to create the United States of Mexico and where a 60-foot-high statue of Christ the King (Cristo Rey) keeps watch from atop the highest mountain in Guanajuato. The main attraction of the region is a collection of colonial cities, many former silver- and gold-mining centers. Beyond city life, the mountains beckon intrepid bike riders and natural hot springs invite all to relax.