If you know anything about southern Mexico’s “Riviera Maya,” it’s probably likely the fantastic beach resorts along this stretch of Yucatan coast, as well as a raft of fantastic adventure and entertainment options. But the region is also full of quiet little corners to revel in the marvels of nature, some fairly unique in the world.
A perfect example is a little town and the lagoon right alongside it right near Mexico’s border with Belize. Some three hours south of the region’s largest city, Playa del Carmen, Bacalar is a charming, 475-year-old town of around 11,000 whose main claim to fame is its dazzling “Lagoon of Seven Colours” – various shades of blue, green, and turquoise. Fed by underground rivers and surrounded by mangroves, its limpid waters are crystalline, calm, and perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking.
Besides the town’s several other notable landmarks – especially the evocative 18th-century San Felipe Fort, now home to a historical museum – another cool local must is taking a dip in one of the area’s cenotes such as the Cenote Azul – these water-filled limestone sinkholes are perfect for a refreshing dip or snorkel.
So come and experience the Seven-Colour Lagoon and the other eco-marvels of the Riviera Maya by booking an Iberia flight for a tropical winter getaway you won’t soon forget!
Photo: David Cabrera
