Coahuila Getaways

Ciudad Acuña is just an introduction to the many attractions of the state of Coahuila. This expansive area is filled with both ecotourism activities and plenty of history.

Piedras Negras

Piedras Negras (888-334-4751 or see www.sproturac.com), located across the border from Eagle Pass, is a popular Coahuila getaway for history buffs and well as shoppers. Named for the "black rock" (anthracite coal) found in the area after flooding on the Rio Grande, Piedras Negras is a gateway to interior Mexico for many tourists, who follow Mexico Highway 57 to Saltillo. In fact, the city is often called La Puerta de Mexico (Mexico's Door) because of its easy access.

Although the city makes a good start for exploring more of the state, there are plenty of reasons to check out Piedras Negras as well. The community is home to ruins of an 18th century San Bernardo Mission, the De La Ventana Caverns, a handicrafts museum, and shopping at Mercado Municipal Zaragoza, the primary tourist market. Keep an eye out for good leatherwork; many of Piedras Negras’s artisans are known for their creations. You’ll find several hotels not far from the shopping district; some of the best known are the Motel California and the Autel Rio Best Western.

Saltillo

Continuing into Mexico, the city of Saltillo (www.descubresaltillo.com) is the capital of the state of Coahuila. The colonial city is sometimes called the Athens of Mexico because of its important cultural centers but its also nicknamed The Land of the Serape because it was the birthplace of this famous piece of clothing.

Although it’s a favorite for shoppers, no trip to Saltillo would be complete without a look at some of its historic buildings such as the 1890 San Juan Church, the 14th century San Juan Nepomuceno Church, and the beautiful Plaza de Armas or Main Square with its cast bronze fountain. If you’d like to extend your stay in Saltillo, you’ll find many accommodations such as Hotel Camino Real, Holiday Inn Eurotel, Hotel Huizache, Best Western, Monterreal, and Holiday Inn Ramos A.

Parras

Coahuila is also home to many less-known communities that are favorites with weekend vacationers. West of Saltillo, Parras (011-52-842-422-0259, www.parrascoahuilla.com.mx) is nicknamed the Oasis of Coahuila because of its many trees and swimming spots. This community is well known for its wine production and some of these wineries have been in production since the 16th century. Don’t miss the Casa Madero in the old Hacienda San Lorenzo; established in 1597, this was the first wine factory in the Americas. Learn more about this local industry at the Museo del Vino (Wine Museum). Extend your stay at properties such as the Rincon del Montero Hotel Resort.

Torreon

Also west of Saltillo, the city of Torreon (011-52-871-720-1861) may be best known for its industry but it also boasts several tourist attractions. The community is home to The Anthropology and History Museum, the Cueva de la Calendaria, a cave with evidence of prehispanic usage, and the Carranza Forest.

Monclova

North of Saltillo, the town of Monclova (866-313-1983, www.rutadeldesierto.com) is today known as an industrial city, the home of extensive steel mills. Monclova also has a rich cultural history, however, seen in the 17th century San Francisco de Asis parish church, the 18th century Santiago Apostol Parish Church, and the La Cueva del Diablo (the Devil's Cave), located on Del Burro Hill and known for its ancient pictographs. Hotels such as Hotel Royal make it easy to extend your stay in Monclova.

Sabinas

Known for its coal industry, Sabinas (011-52-861-613-0503) is also home to several historic structures such as the house of Francisco (Pancho) Villa; the home is best known as the location where Villa signed his surrender. Sabinas is also home to Los Ojitos and San Antonio Spas.

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