SCORE Journal - The Official Publication of SCORE Off-Road Racing
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1420514
Baja California Sur’S CITY OF LA PAZ The End Of The Route For the SCORE BaJa 1000 Is Only The Beginning The city of La Paz is located in the state of Baja California Sur, a two-hour drive from Cabo San Lucas. This area is a tranquil getaway featuring miles of undisturbed white sand beaches and endless opportunities for active adventure tourism. The La Paz region includes the areas of Todos Santos, El Triunfo mining town, La Ventana, El Sargento and the Sea of Cortez (including Espiritu Santo Island, a Natural Protected Area and World Heritage Site by UNESCO). La Paz is a destination committed to sustainability and caring for the environment, where visitors can connect with nature through their fantastic beaches, beautiful landscapes, the contrast between the desert and the sea, water adventures and unique experiences involving culture and gastronomy. Tucked away on the Eastern side of the Baja Peninsula, the Sea of Cortez is one of the most diverse bodies of water on the planet and home to more than 900 species of fish and 5,000 species of macroinvertebrates. Named “the world’s aquarium” by renowned French marine biologist Jacques Cousteau, it is considered one of the world’s most internationally prized ecosystems. Parts of the Sea of Cortez, specifically the Isla Espiritu Santo Island, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And for the adventure traveler, it also offers a plethora of fascinating activities both on and under the water: swimming with whale sharks, snorkeling with baby sea lions, paddle boarding through mangroves, and diving with everything from giant manta rays to hammerhead sharks. A low key, peaceful place, La Paz offers what today’s traveler’s desire – experiences, connection and authenticity. Don’t forget to swim with the whale shark (the largest fish in the sea), our visitor from October to April. La Paz bay has been named a shelter area for this species and during these months, you’ll be able to snorkel them, with an authorized tour operator. For those who enjoy activities on land, Balandra (a famous Natural Protected Area in La Paz) is an extensive network of single hikes. Some trails take hikers to the top of beautiful vistas while others open to blue waters and beautiful beaches. 20 minutes north of La Paz is El Mogote, a natural sand barrier, one of the best spots to practice sand boarding or drive a UTV in Mexico. Adrenaline is the main character here while you enjoy descending from sand dunes or driving these vehicles with a trained guide. Take a walk through town while soaking up all the arts, culture, and history. The Our Lady of Peace Cathedral (Catedral de Nuestra Señora de La Paz) and a public green space sits in the center of La Paz’s historic downtown while the Malecon, a beachfront boardwalk, stretches along the shore. Sculptural pieces line one side of the boardwalk while quaint cafes and restaurants on the other side offer a shady space to grab an ice-cold drink. Discover some of the world’s best fish tacos paired with mezcal cocktails that feature a complex smoky flavor you may crave after a walk around downtown. La Paz is pleased to welcome Grupo Habita’s Baja Club Hotel. Baja Club is a 32-room lifestyle hotel made up of a restored colonial–style villa dating from the early twentieth century as well as a newly built four–story extension containing guest rooms, a spa, pool and rooftop sunset bar. Located directly across from the recently renovated and expanded Malecon (beachfront walk) and turquoise waters of the sea, it is both an escape and conveniently central for those looking for a boutique experience. You can also visit nearby Todos Santos; one of Mexico’s acclaimed “Magic Towns”, located only 40 minutes away driving from La Paz city and a boutique center of art, music, culture and farm to table experiences. After many activities visitors can retreat to two recently opened luxury hotels, one of them is the new Paradero Todos Santos. With 35 suites and an “all experience inclusive” concept, Paradero Todos Santos refers to itself as “less of a hotel than a high-design landscaping project with luxurious suites.” It is an excellent addition to Todos Santos’ eclectic and artistic offerings. The culinary offer is complemented by concepts such as Baja Med merged with Mediterranean cuisine using local produce as well as incorporating the catch of the day experience. Contrasting landscapes of desert, organic farms and the Pacific are the scenery for enjoying these unique experiences. La Paz, despite its many charms, remains an authentic, small Mexican city while also providing world class services, extraordinary cuisine both sophisticated and simple, and a wide range of hotel options. WHERE TO STaY Hotel Mission Cataviña Located on Transpeninsular Highway Km. 180 between San Quintin and Punta Prieta, 42 Rooms, Restaurant, Bar, Playroom, Tennis Court e Swimming Pool , lapintacatavina@hotmail.com, Phone (200) 1249-123 Hotel Mission Santa Maria San Quintin Located of the Transpeninsular Highway, Camino Playa Santa Maria, San Quintin, 56 Rooms, Restaurant, Bar, Tennis Court, Beach front Location, misionsantamariahoteles.com, (616) 165-9008 ABOVE: Hotel Mission Cataviña BELOW: Hotel Mission Santa Maria San Quintin