San Sebastián Bernal is a whimsical and picturesque colonial town in the Mexican state of Querétaro. It is home to the breathtaking and sobering Peña de Bernal. As the third largest monolith in the world, it is considered one of Mexico’s 13 Wonders. The monolith measures in at 1421 ft. tall from its base and has an elevation of 8,235 ft. above sea level. At OTOMI TRAVEL we love to visit this magical place.

A short hike from downtown takes you to the base of Peña de Bernal. You can also hire a rickshaw to get there and conserve body energy. Once there, you can register with the authorities and climb up half way before it requires technical climbing skills. Save time for gem stone shopping on the way down!

Sites to visit in Bernal include: the 18th century church Capilla de la Santa Cruz, the rare 17th century civil construction project el Castillo (the castle), the unique Museum of the Mask and the Templo de San Sebastián Mártir (built from 1700-1725).

The surrounding areas produce well-respected cheeses and wines. You can pick some up at one of several outlets in town so bring a shopping bag along. Shepherding is also common in the area. Wool products are abundant.