On the way to discover the Lenca Route in the south of Honduras, we also decide to make a stop in Gracias. This time the little town is very laid-back, the streets are colorful, the central plaza is pretty and all around the city there’s a lot of cool little spots to visit. Here we do find a couple of tourists but nothing like we’ve seen at Copan Ruinas! Picture Gracias like a small town featuring gorgeous latino-american baroque architecture nestled in the hills and mountains.
After a bit of walking around, we decide to spend the night at Hotel Fernando’s, a very pretty place that offers us a room with private bathroom for just 400L. Luckily for us, the hotel is also very close to the Fuerte San Cristóbal, one of the best tourist attractions in town. Walking toward the Parque Central we find out where the local Mercado and while walking around shops we take the opportunity to buy some ultra cheap local veggies. Gracias is also known for its several churches that can be found all around town (Iglesia San Marcos, Iglesia La Merced, Iglesia San Sebastián e Iglesia Santa Lucía) and can be easily visited by doing a self-guided walking tour.
After our “church tour” we decide to visit Casa Galeano, an old colonial house build in 1840 (still belongs to the Galeano Family) that has constant exhibitions on nature & culture of Honduras. Just next to it, we also give a quick visit to the Botanic Garden, which used to be the house garden but which is now become a public park.
Inside the central park there’s a small but efficient Tourist Info-point where to get free maps, suggestions and other useful information on what to see around Gracias. One of the highlights of Gracias is the Parque Nacional Montaña Celaque, a national park located just 8km from town where you can climb the Cerro Las Minas (highest point in Honduras) or where to take an occasional nature hike.
Leaving the bus terminal with any bus going to Tegucigalpa, will bring you in the right direction to visit the town’s hot springs located only 5km from the town center. Another nice place to visit (having a car here would be ideal) is La Campa, a pretty artisans village located 16km from Gracias.
We spent three days in Gracias but took it slow and decided to don’t rush it. Have a walk around the central park and observe the real authentic Honduran lifestyles. You’ll be greatly rewarded!
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