Valle de Bravo -

Sometimes called the “Switzerland of Mexico”, picturesque, pine-scented Valle de Bravo is a hilly town which rises from the shores of beautiful Lake Avandaro. Beautiful views of the mountains and lake and the flower-filled streets make it a favorite vacation and weekend retreat.

Where Valle de Bravo is located

Set in a deep pine-clad valley at 1,040m (6,070 ft) and surrounded by low mountains, Valle de Bravo is about 150 km (95 miles) southwest of Mexico City and 84 km (52 miles) west of Toluca.

How to get to Valle de Bravo

From the U.S. and Canada, one can fly to Mexico City or from points within Mexico, to Mexico City or Toluca. Arrange for private transportation or go to Mexico City´s West bus terminal where buses leave every 20 minutes for the three hour journey. First-class buses depart hourly.

How to get around Valle de Bravo

Walking is the best way to get around this scenic town, but taxis and “collectivos” or group taxis, are available.

Shopping in Valle de Bravo

Browse the Mercado de Artesanias (Crafts Market) and textile shops and the many galleries lining the cobblestone streets.

Valle de Bravo´s climate

Mild spring-like temperatures prevail most of the year with temperatures that rarely go above 80 degrees – even in summer. Daytime temperatures generally remain consistent year-round, but it can become quite cold at night November through March. The rainy season is from May through October, with July and August usually being the wettest months. The rest of the year remains quite dry.

Dining in Valle de Bravo

The whole town is full of cafes, bistros and restaurants serving a variety of food and there are floating restaurants on the lake.

Tours & Excursions in Valle de Bravo

Side Trip from Valle de Bravo

A great excursion would be a trip to the nesting grounds of the monarch butterfly between November and February. Another, closer, outing would be to visit Toluca where there are several museums, a famous market and the 4,691 meter (15,431 foot) Nevado de Toluca, an inactive volcano and fourth highest mountain in Mexico with two small lakes in its crater.

Valle de Bravo´s events

The town´s two major festivals are May 3 (Fiesta de la Santa Cruz), better known as “la feria de Santa Maria”), and October 4 (San Fransisco) and both maintain many traditional Mexican games and dances.

Who would Valle de Bravo appeal to

Anyone who enjoys history in a beautiful setting. Valle de Bravo is a 16th Century village with cobblestone streets and colonial structures built around a town square and the town is earmarked as a National Heritage village by the Mexican government, meaning that all new construction must conform to the colonial style of the original village. Add to that the impressive lake to use for water sports or just to enjoy as a vista and there is something for everyone.

What is fabulous in Valle de Bravo

The focal point of the town, and the most spectacular impression, is undoubtedly the 21 kilometer square lake. The first sight is thrilling – like catching a glimpse of the bay arriving in Acapulco or Puerto Vallarta. The impressive “lake” is really a man-made dam or presa, built with two further levels as the land drops down steeply towards the state of Michoacan. Sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and water-skiing are all available on the lake as well as boat rentals and fishing trips and view the colonial buildings around the town plaza of this National Heritage village.
Valle de Bravo is famous for parasailing and international competitions are often held here. Or try a glider or parasailing yourself with a certified instructor.
See Velo de Novia (Bride´s Veil), a pretty waterfall 35 meters high.

Boutique Hotels in Valle de Bravo:

Rodavento — Valle de Bravo — Central
Casual — Rustic — Secluded
Located two hours northwest of Mexico city, the magical 16th-century village of Valle de Bravo is the perfect backdrop for Rodavento, the exquisite luxury-adventure hotel that is one of Mexico´s most distinctive properties.