Concordia: a small hamlet founded in 1565. It is about 25 miles to the east of Mazatlan and about 50 years back in time. The drive takes you upward into the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains and past coconut, mango and banana plantations. The town is famous for once having been a French garrison. The shady and peaceful town square has a ornate baroque church (San Sebastian) dating from the 18th century. The city's cobblestone lanes and red tile-roofed buildings offer a pleasant break from Mazatlan's ocean front attractions.

Concordia is famous for its fine carved furniture. In fact, an oversized rocking chair (a tribute to the city's century old furniture making industry) is in the main square.

Continue another 45 minutes to Copala, one of Mexico's more endearing villages. This former mining town has a 16th century church, cobblestone streets, colonial era buildings, flower-filled patios, and clear mountain air. Have lunch at Daniel's, a wonderful hilltop Mexican restaurant.

Both cities are visited on a tour that departs daily from most hotels.

To the south of Mazatlan, visitors take in two other popular trips. A country tour takes visitors to the gold and silver region around Rosario (founded in 1665). The other is to the Teacapan River, a miniature Amazon, replete with tropical flowers and exotic wildlife.

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