Hugging the north shore of Lake Chapala, Chapala lies directly south of Guadalajara in the Mexican state of Jalisco. During World War I, it was set to be developed as a luxury resort by Norwegian investors and its 1917-built railway station still stands today. Modern-day Chapala is a popular getaway destination known for its seafood restaurants and mariachi music.
Things to do in Chapala
Dominating the town centre is the Parroquia de San Francisco, which was reconstructed following an earthquake in 1567. Its facade features 10 square columns and is topped by two soaring towers built in a Corinthian style. Nearby is a short pier that connects to the red-and-white-striped Faro de Chapala, which offers magnificent views across the lake.
Railway enthusiasts can visit the Antigua Estacion De Ferrocarril Chapala, a grandiose building constructed in 1917 on the designs of Guillermo de Alba. Its eclectic French style reflects the ideals of the time when residents of Guadalajara would travel to Chapala for leisurely weekends away. In addition to retaining the atmosphere of the period, the railway station hosts cultural events and concerts.
Hugging the lakefront is Parque de la Christiania, an inviting green space with grassy lawns, an open-air auditorium and an outdoor swimming pool with water slides. Young kids will love the children’s playground, while older kids can take advantage of the basketball court and soccer pitch. A breezy promenade lined with seafood restaurants and bars stretches to the west.
Getting around Chapala
Chapala is around a one-hour drive from the centre of Guadalajara and 30 minutes from Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the Americas. Regular buses connect to Chapala and the town centre is compact enough to explore on foot.