Ajijic & Lake Chapala

In March of 2018, I spent nearly a week in the lakeside town of Ajijic, State of Jalisco, in west-central Mexico-to see if the area was as scenic as I had heard from many friends.  I was traveling with Rebecca, my companion, who had lived in Ajijic for many years. She was a knowledgable guide, not only of the town and surrounding countryside, but also of the many, vibrant restaurants, bars and art galleries  Staying in a small hotel in the central plaza, I passed the following days exploring the narrow, cobbled lanes, the lakeside and a scenic trail that leads to 10 Stations of the Cross on the fronting hill side.

A beautiful lakeside

Although not an official Pueblo Mágico, Ajijic aspired to be one, but was rejected.  My take is that Ajijic was "already" one; it was more sophisticated and prosperous than many true 'Mágicos'.

Ajijic has plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants 

As you know, I search for towns and places for their scenic beauty and ability to accommodate traveling artists.  Ajijic is such a place, especially with the lakeside elegance of the nearby town of Chapala, a place with a developed lakefront and upscale hotels.  Together, the two towns provide an infinite number of places and spaces from which to paint a wide variety of trophy landscapes.

Time allowing, I would definitely include these two lovely towns and their defining lakeside and backdrop mountains in a future book.  Not only is the scenery enchanting, but the wide variety of eating and drinking establishments will keep you satiated for your entire visit.  For English speakers, the Lake Chapala region has a large population of retirees from North America.

Food & music aplenty

Dozens of trophy landscapes

I also posted a more extensive album of 30 photographs of Ajijic on my Facebook Page: Painting Mexico's Magical Towns. Note that Lake Chapala was selected for water sports for a past Olympic event.

The chapel atop the trail, 10 Stations of the Cross.  This point overlooks the lake.