An Unusual, Ancient, Largely Undiscovered Mountain Town

Tepoztlán (pronounced Teh-pos-lan) is one of the most beautiful and unusual towns in Mexico. Largely undiscovered by foreign tourists, it occupies the floor of a broad, lush valley whose walls were formed by bizarrely shaped mountains that look like the work of some abstract expressionist giant. The mountains are visible from almost any location in town - even the municipal parking lot boasts a spectacular view. Tepoztlán, known as the magic village, has documented frequent UFO sightings over the years. And in nearby Mexico City there are a number of restaurants with sighting photos on their walls. Many women on Sacred Journey Retreats in the past have spotted them as well. It has been said that UFO's protect the volcano which sits only 60 miles from Tepoztlán. Elaine and her husband, while living in Mexico and assisting NASA on a project, had actual encounters with UFO's.

Tepoztlán remains small and steeped in legend and mystery - - it lies adjacent to the alleged birthplace of Quetzalcoatl, the Aztec serpent god -- and comes about as close as you're going to get to an unspoiled, magical mountain hideaway. Eight chapels, each with its own cultural festival, dot this traditional Mexican village. Though the town stays tranquil during the week, escapees from Mexico City descend in droves on the weekends, especially Sunday. Most Tepoztlán residents, whether foreigners or Mexicans, tend to be mystically or artistically oriented -- although some also appear to be just plain disoriented. The village wears its New Age heart on its sleeve -- homeopathic pharmacies and health-food stores coexist happily alongside Internet cafes, tortilla stands, and satellite-dish companies.

Known as a mystical center, Tepoztlán is home to many artists, musicians, healers, curanderos, shamans, and visionaries. An hour’s drive from Mexico City, it is an ancient Aztec Nahautl village in the valley of the Sierra Madres Mountains. Tepoztlán sits at the foot of Tepozteco, the pyramid where Aztec priestesses trained – a sacred site for over 3,000 years – and the source of the magical energies still present today. (Reserve Your Place Now!!)

Quetzalcoatl created the earth and breathed the divine breath of life into the first being. When the wind rustles, birds circle the mountains and the bougainvillea bloom, he is alive today in Tepoztlán, imparting his diving breath into all who visit here. Quetzalcoatl is the Aztec diety whose energies represent Transformation and Regeneration. He presides and protects Tepoztlan and all of the surrounding areas.

Tepoztlán is known for its native market, where you will find silver and gemstone jewelry, ethnic clothing, art and cultural artifacts. Huehuecoyotl, one of the original Rainbow Family Communities, is a short drive away. Nestled against the peaks of the Tepozteco Mountains, this totally self-sustaining community has ceaselessly campaigned to increase awareness of our interconnectedness to Nature and to each other. Members consist of artisans, dancers, musicians, engineers and environmentalists who educate others through their workshops, performances, travels and general life style. (Reserve Your Place Now!!)