This picturesque colonial town is a world apart from the sultry coast, yet it is only two hours drive from Puerto Vallarta. It's well worth the journey just to experience the crisp, cool mountain air and the magnificent scenery on the way, but there's lots to see when you arrive too.

We recommend renting a car and driving to the hacienda, which lies just outside the town of San Sebastian. Allow plenty of time for the journey and you could stop off at the tequila and raicilla distillery on the way. If you don't have a rental car, transportation and tours can be provided.

Explore the cobblestone streets on foot and you'll feel that little has changed in the last century. The beautiful church is worth a stop, as is the organic coffee farm and store. There are a surprising number of great places for lunch too.

The mountain that dominates the backdrop to the main plaza is la Bufa. You can drive to the summit in a regular car and from there you can see the coast. A fun way to make the trip is to rent an ATV for a day or half day. If you'd prefer not to drive, a tour can be arranged at the hacienda to take in la Bufa and San Sebastian in a half day tour, followed by lunch at a restaurant in town.

Other activities that can be arranged at the hacienda include birdwatching tours and horseback riding (the latter is for experts only as there is no tuition or guide).