One of Northeast Mexico’s prettiest historic towns, Parras de la Fuente, in Coahuila state, brings a splash of green to the desert. Secular and religious buildings cluster around the centre of town; of note are the Santurario de Guadalupe, wit its baroque and neoclassic altarpieces, and the sixteenth century Templo de San Ignacio de Loyola, with its small museum of old documents, books, and viceregal-era paintings.

The city and surrounding countryside enjoy a pleasant climate well suited to growing figs, dates, pecans, avocados, and grapes. Casa Madero still produces wine and brandy and offers daily tours and tastings. The harvest is celebrated each August with the weeklong Grape and Wine Festival.