The cobblestone streets of Puerto Vallarta lend to the charm of the historic city center. Although some would call them dangerous, due in part to their uneven surface and ability to form potholes, the original use of cobblestones during the early days was quite practical.
Paving with cobblestones allowed a road to be heavily used all year long. It prevented the build-up of ruts often found in dirt roads and had the additional advantage of not getting muddy in wet weather, or dusty in dry weather. Shod horses or mules were able to get better traction on stone cobbles and, although the noise of riding over cobblestones might have been annoying, it was actually considered good as it warned pedestrians of oncoming traffic… horse, mule or automobile!
The natural materials or “cobbles,” a geological term, originally referred to any small stone having dimensions between 2.5 and 10″ (6.4 and 25.4 cm) and rounded by the flow of water; essentially, a large pebble.
Cobblestones are typically either set in sand or similar material or are bound together with cement or asphalt. Cobblestones set in sand have the environmental advantage of being permeable paving and of moving rather than cracking with movements in the ground.
In Puerto Vallarta, the making or remaking of a cobblestone street begins with the leveling of the underlying dirt. Then comes sand. Next parallel lines of larger stones are laid in rows, sometimes with cement holding them in place. Rows are them filled in with the smaller stones. Finally, sand or cement is packed around all the stones and left to settle with gaps filled in as needed. Repair of potholes tends to be a mixture of stones, sand, cement, pulverized terra cotta, or asphalt.
Today, the original streets in the historic downtown area of Puerto Vallarta are required to remain in keeping with the original construction.
Walking on cobblestones has long been considered good exercise depending on the distance, frequency, surface, and grade. Local Yoga and Movement therapist Via Anderson has written, “Find and walk on the many cobblestones walks here (in Vallarta). Walking on cobblestones a few times daily with bare feet (preferred) or minimal shoes (to protect from debris) provides stimulation to the foot musculature that in turn adapts by becoming stronger and better able to handle these forces for longer periods of time… and may be significant in reversing aging.” So keep on walking folks!
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We represent the best quality of homes for rent by owners who care about your comfort and hope you return for many years of unforgettable Mexican holidays.
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Relax and experience the charm and culture of Puerto Vallarta with quaint cobblestone streets, the fragrant scent of Bougainvillea, beautiful beaches, Mexican cuisine, outstanding golf courses and a host of activities for everyone to enjoy!
Our private rental homes and condos offer a full range of services during your stay from full staff services including a chef who will prepare two meals a day.
Our concierge services will personally contact you with information on activities, tours or spa services in the privacy of your own villa rental, to the best restaurants for dining out in Puerto Vallarta. We have the most current information to guide you for your holiday in Puerto Vallarta from our daily weather report to maps and directions.
For more information about renting a villa in Puerto Vallarta contact Casa Bay Villas at info@casabayvillas.com or call us at 203.386.8022.
We hope you will visit one of our featured vacation rental villas soon and experience the Magic of Puerto Vallarta!
Our mission at Casa Bay Villas is to exceed your expectations, listen to your needs and to assist you in selecting the best villa rental for your vacation in Puerto Vallarta Mexico.
