The town of Bacalar is less than an hour north of Chetumal where we entered Mexico from Belize.

It’s also a very very lovely place, a small lagoon side town with a very relaxed feel.

It’s name is derived from Mayan language and it’s history is quite rich with pirates, Spanish forts and Mayan heritage dating back to 400AD.

But the highlight is it’s very spectacular lagoon which stretches for 60km in length and is 2km at its widest.

It’s known as the lake of seven colours and if you have ever been to the Caribbean, this is that on steroids!

The lagoon even has a cenote (Azul) within it, claiming one of the seven colours with its dark blue waters.

There are the remains of a Spanish fort here, built in the 17th century after the town was sacked by pirates (likely encouraged by the British).

There are lots of great bars and restaurants around the lagoon and in the town. But your eyes are forever drawn to the sumptuous colours of the lagoon.

The lagoon is the primary attraction here and we took a yacht out for a few hours touring the lagoon which is a lovely experience, jumping in when you need to cool down.

There is also a place nearby called Los Rapidos, where the channel of water is less wide creating a current that lets you float along admiring the world at leisure.

It’s a lovely gentle experience but do not expect rapids!

We spent three full days here and whilst initially questioning that this was too long, the time passed with ease. It is quite a unique town and we could have stayed longer!