Cruising to Loreto, Mexico

The scenery in Loreto is spectacular, as the rugged Sierra de la Giganta Mountains converge with the bright blue Sea of Cortez. The first mission was founded in Loreto in 1697 by the Jesuit priest Juan Maria Salvatierra, and eventually Loreto became the capital of the Baja region. When Mexico won its independence from Spain in 1821, the new Mexican government ordered all of the missionaries home, and the mission at Loreto was abandoned. A major hurricane in 1829 virtually destroyed the rest of the settlement, and the capital was moved to La Paz. Over a century passed before Loreto was built up again, this time because the government had tapped the area for development to promote tourism. The Trans-Peninsula Highway reached Loreto in 1973, and an international airport was built, along with resorts and golf courses.

Sport fishing reigns supreme here, as the waters are teeming with dorado, sailfish and marlin. There are also plenty of water sports to try, including waterskiing, sailing and windsurfing. Whale watching tours and scuba or snorkeling trips can also be arranged for those wanting to get up close to the wildlife inhabiting these crystal clear waters. Those who wish to stay dry can take a relaxing stroll along the malecon along Calle de la Playa, or visit El Museo de los Misiones, which is located next to La Mision de Nuestra Senora. There you will find religious relics and displays on Baja's history.

It is 20 miles to the Mision San Javier, but well worth the trip as long as the roads are dry. Arrange a tour or have a guide take you in a high clearance vehicle, as the dirt and gravel roads take you through palm groves and the cliffs of the Cerro de la Giganta en route to the mission village. Be sure not to miss the marked trails with caves and Indian paintings along the way. Once at the mission, you'll see the mission church which was built in 1699 of grey volcanic rock, along with religious vestments from the1700s and bells in the bell towers from the 18th century. If you happen to arrive at the beginning of December, you'll be joined by many of the residents of Loreto, who make a pilgrimage to the mission for the patron saint's feast day.
By: Stephanie Larkin