Peña de Bernal
World's third-largest monolith—433 meters of volcanic rock with famous gorditas negras and spring equinox celebrations
Overview
Peña de Bernal is a massive volcanic monolith rising 433 meters above the valley floor—the third largest in the world after Gibraltar and Sugarloaf. Hiking trails reach the viewpoint saddle for 30 MXN ($1.50 USD) entry; the technical summit requires climbing gear. The charming Pueblo Mágico at its base is famous for gorditas negras (black corn gorditas), wool products, and mystical energy that draws thousands during spring equinox celebrations. Buses from Querétaro's Terminal B cost 50-73 pesos ($2.50-4 USD). Best combined with nearby wine country (Tequisquiapan 20 min) for a full day exploring the region.
Highlights
Practical Information
Half day (combine with Tequisquiapan wine country for full day)
30 MXN
Hiking trail entry 30 pesos ($1.50 USD); bus from Querétaro 50-73 pesos
Spring equinox (March 20-21) for mystical celebrations; weekdays to avoid crowds
More Day Trips Nearby
Guanajuato City
UNESCO colonial capital with underground streets and Diego Rivera's birthplace
San Miguel de Allende
UNESCO colonial jewel with iconic pink Parroquia and world-class arts scene
Mineral de Pozos
Ghost mining town turned artist colony—"the next San Miguel of the 1950s"
Querétaro Wine Country
Mexico's most exciting wine region—18+ wineries including Freixenet's underground cellars and 1 million annual visitors
Grutas Tolantongo
Mexico's hidden thermal paradise—turquoise waters flowing through a 500-meter limestone canyon owned by the indigenous Otomí community
Tequisquiapan
Pueblo Mágico gateway to wine country with thermal hot springs and artisan markets
Plan Your Base
Explore the destinations where you can make this a day trip.