Our final two days in Mexico we spent in the area surrounding San Miguel, exploring the countryside and enjoying beautiful views of the mountains.
Thursday morning we woke up early and went directly to the nearby hot springs, La Gruta, which was about 25-30 minutes by car from Sean’s parent’s house. It was chilly in the early morning which was perfect for a dip in the hot water. The grounds and gardens were beautiful, and the main pool was surrounded by rock walls. It also had a tunnel that led to a grotto with VERY hot water coming out of a pipe that people lined up to sit under for a massage. It was wonderful. 
After a satisfying soak, we had breakfast on the property. I had a massive fruit cocktail with yogurt and granola. The fresh papaya was my favorite. Sean had delicious chilaquiles. 
We drove further down the road to the town of Dolores Hidalgo, famed for it’s beautiful, colorful pottery. We drove through the downtown which was so different than San Miguel and was more of what I had in my mind of a Mexican city with a wide mix of businesses along dusty roads, and big, colorful, open-air restaurants and cafes.
We went to a few pottery showrooms and I would have purchased more than a couple of mugs and a vase but had limited room in my suitcase to bring anything large home. I love the style and cheerfulness of the pottery.
We had an afternoon siesta back at the house before heading out again in the early evening. We picked up Barbara Porter in town then headed out to Tarragon, a vineyard and complex with a restaurant, winery, event space and chapel with sweeping views of the city and mountains. The staff all knew Barbara Porter and immediately followed her to help open doors as she took us down into the expansive wine cellar. By the time we got back up to the restaurant on the elevator, the staff were already behind the bar making her a martini. She is definitely a local celebrity!
The view from the restaurant was exquisite and the food was delicious. I had lamb lollipops with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables and Sean had the seafood risotto. Everything was fresh and flavorful. Sean and I went up to the rooftop to enjoy the sunset after our meal. 
Friday morning started with breakfast at the house – huevos rancheros made by Laura. Yum!
We rode out to the olive farm with Barbara Porter and her household manager, Ricardo. He’s been working for her for over twenty years and the two of them are hilarious to be around. We had a blast listening to their many stories of fun and interesting adventures over the years.
The olive farm was gorgeous. We spent a lot of time walking around the grounds with the owners. They shared how they changed a lot of their business model due to Covid, doing more things outside and keeping their staff on to do the needed renovations and additions to the property. Very imrpessive!
The many olive oils were pretty much all delicious. There were different kinds – regular and infused. I loved the one made with Spanish olives as well as the ones infused with basil and ginger. We of course brought those ones home with us!
We departed early on Saturday morning and had a long journey home. Our week in Mexico was wonderful – we experienced so many things, ate delicious food, and saw beautiful art, scenery, and cities. Can’t wait to go back!