Cotija

What Makes It Magical

With charming cobblestone streets, buildings with Spanish tile roofs, and a gorgeous, wooded setting, Cotija de la Paz is Michoacán‘s 10^th Magical Town. Famous for its eponymous cheese, this destination features tradition, culture, and gastronomy. Its name comes from the word cotixani in the Purépecha language, meaning “place where the throat is wider”. One of the unique characteristics of this town is that most of its people are of Spanish, Italian, and French descent.

Why You Should Go

If you like an outing where you can enjoy colonial-era architecture, a peaceful atmosphere, and the chance to connect with nature, this Magical Town is for you.

Set less than four hours from Morelia and three hours from Guadalajara, Cotija promises a range of cultural and gastronomical attractions offering a break from city life. What’s more, it is close to Chapala lake, which is just an hour away. Thanks to Chapala’s proximity, it has several bodies of water where you can unwind and enjoy some time in nature, like the San Juanico lake.

At the Very Least

You have to try the toothsome and iconic cotija cheese. It has been made for over 400 years in the surrounding hamlets and is undoubtedly the Magical Town’s most well-known product.

This artisanal foodstuff is prepared during July, August, and September—the rainy season. It is then left to age for at least three months, resulting in a slightly harder rind and creamy interior. The flavor depends on the time it ripened.

Don’t Miss

1. Ramble the historic center’s cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era buildings topped with red-tile roofs.
2. Pop into Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Popolo; the church dates from 1854.
3. Delve into the town’s handicraft traditions; you can find leather goods, hand-woven textiles, earrings, sandals, and much more.