About us
Chapala the largest town on the shores of Lake Chapala
For many years, Chapala was the largest town on the shores of Lake Chapala, and the most genteel. Yet centuries before, the Coca Indians inhabited the wooded shores. Even today, their small ceramic offering vessels known as “blood cups” can be discovered on the beach or are brought up in fishermen’s nets.
Distinguished tourists discover the town of Chapala
In 1868, the first steamboat embarked on the Chapala inland sea, and sailboats served as ferries.
In 1904, President Porfirio Diaz discovered Chapala, and vacationed here for several years afterward. English writer D.H. Lawrence penned The Plumed Serpent while staying at a villa on Zaragoza street, mentioning the splendid parish church of San Francisco in his book.
Several Chapala hotels opened: the Hotel Nido, dating from 1905, now houses City Hall, where homeowners pay their annual property taxes. Cazadores Restaurant occupies the Victorian mansion on the waterfront, owned by the Braniff family of airline fame.
For a quiet town, Chapala has plenty to do
Today, Chapala is still a favorite weekend and holiday destination for Tapatios, as the people of Guadalajara are known. A landscaped median divides Calle Madero as it leads into town past the plaza with its charming bandstand.
Each year on the weekend leading up to Mardi Gras, Chapala is the setting of one of the liveliest Carnaval celebrations in Mexico.
With its scenic pier, the lakefront promenade or malecón, boat rides, and restaurants along the main avenue and lakeshore, this is a delightful place to while away a lazy afternoon.
Review of Chapala Mexican Restaurant.
I was pleased with our Chapalas early dinner yesterday. I live on the bench and really wanted enchiladas but didn't want to pay too much so we decided to try the Chapalas just down the road. I got the chicken enchiladas dinner and it was $10.25 (if I remember correctly) and filled me up. Nothing fancy, just good old enchiladas and very friendly service. Glad we checked it out.
-
Amanda P. / Boise, ID