But it wasn’t until 1870 when gold mines were discovered in Real
del Castillo, that Ensenada was put on the map and its development
grew on a faster pace. It became a shipping center and the capital
of the northern Baja California Territory in 1882. Just around the
century, the mines were exploited to there capacity, the
government office was moved to Mexicali and the town returned to
the peaceful atmosphere felt in the first days.
In
the 1920’s the prohibition of the United States offered prosperity
to the border towns of Baja California. In that time was when the
construction of the Hotel Playa and Casino (Riviera del Pacifico
Cultural Center) took place becoming a great attraction to the
Southern California wealthy people and Hollywood stars. But gambling
was outlawed by the Mexican Government and had to stop its function.
Nowadays this building is a historical landmark in Ensenada as well
used for civic, social and cultural events.
"Please do not forget to visit the Ensenada Hotels guide for reservations and complete Ensenada Hotels". Also for a complete dinning experience try the Ensenada Restaurants guide, featuring the top Ensenada Restaurants.
As
well in the surroundings the mayor attraction is a natural geyser
named “La Bufadora” and is better known as the blowhole, where
you’ll find complimentary breathtaking views. Unique in the whole
world.
Ensenada’s
great climate offers an array of opportunities to practice outdoors
activities as horseback riding, swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing,
surfing, fishing, sailing and diving. On the other hand, sports are
easy to practice, as golf in the professional golf course in Bajamar
in the north or in Baja Country Club in the south, volleyball on the
beach, tennis, jet skiing, etc.
Services are varied in accommodations from luxurious hotels to
campgrounds and RV parks well equipped, restaurants specialized in
International cuisine, supermarkets, hundreds of shops, pharmacies, bakeries, gas stations, medical facilities,
banks, and an airport where private planes and charters may land
with a permission from the Second Military Zone. Also Ensenada has
become the second most important port of call for mayor Cruise
lines, that arrive on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturdays on weekly
basis.
The
cuisine is exquisite considering some options as El Rey Sol,
Mariscos Bahia de Ensenada, Casamar, and hacienda de El Charro.
Ensenada is renowned for the Seafood Fair held since 1978. Some
other culinary events talk place as the Chili cook off, the wine harvest festival, the Paella Contest and the “El Hongo” fair,
both last two new on the list.
Mayor sports events take place as the Newport-Ensenada regatta, the
off road races Baja 500 and Baja 1000, the fun bicycle ride from
Rosarito to Ensenada and the Carnaval (Mexican mardi grass).
For more information contact the Convention & Visitors Bureau at
Blvd. Costero. (tel. 01-6-1782411 or 0-6-178-3675).
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