by Kristin Hahn

Although we all agree that we live in paradise, it is always a good thing when we are able to get away from our daily schedules and commitments and have an adventure!
Enter Bacalar, the most beautiful place I have ever seen! Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Playa del Carmen, (about a 3 hour drive directly south) lays Lake Bacalar, a true natural wonder. Fed by a series of cenotes and underground currents, this long (50 km), fresh water lake has the most incredible colors you have ever seen.........

Originally called “Lake of Seven Colors” by the ancient Maya, Lake Bacalar is tremendously clear and transparent and is surrounded by mangroves and reeds

Four kilometers farther down the road is the town of Bacalar, a quiet and tranquil lakeside town that has very few tourists. In 1545, Gaspar Pacheco founded the town, 'Salamanca de Bacalar, which came from the Mayan words Bak Halal, "place surrounded by reeds". The "Fortress de San Felipe Bacalar" was built in 1729 to protect the small town (pueblo) from pirates, and is located in the middle of town right off of the town square. It has been fully restored and there is a small historical museum to visit inside the walls of the fort. So not only is there a beautiful lake to enjoy, but there is a history lesson as well. There are multiple activities to choose from, such as:kayaking, fishing, bird watching, and of course the most popular of all, floating in the crystal clear warm waters of the lake. Nearby is Cenote Azul, which is 6 and 1/2 meters deep! There is a restaurant right on the water so you can enjoy lunch as you marvel at yet another beautiful natural creation.

There are a few different lodging options to choose from when visiting Bacalar.

Amigo’s which is a small and quaint bed and breakfast right on the lake, Casita Carolina a cute hotelito also located on the lake, and then there is Hotel Laguna. This is where we chose to stay, and although it was over the top cheesy from the outside (pink flamingos and turquoise paint) it was a great choice. They had a bar, restaurant, swimming pool, incredible lake access, and all for only 390.00 pesos per night, now that is what I call a great deal!

So if you are looking for a weekend getaway or need a stop over from Chetumal or Belize make sure to consider this most incredible slice of heaven and I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

Hotels and Lodging in Lake Bacalar

Amigo's B&B - Bacalar. 3 guest rooms with A/C, fans, bathrooms, hot water, lake view, TV. This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it Please check here for further information.

Hotel Laguna - Bugambilias 316, Bacalar, overlooking the lake. Rooms with bath, fans; restaurant, bar, pool. Bungalows w/Kitchenette available. Tel. (983)834-2206

Casita Carolina - Please visit their website for further information.

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