CARTAGENA

A vibrant hub of cultural diversity, Cartagena has a captivating history dating back to 4000BC.

European, Indian and Caribbean influences fuse together to form a city like no other and it has justly been a designated UNESCO World Heritage site for many years. Visitors are spoilt for choice – tropical beaches, pretty colonial architecture, an impressive fort and lively bars are just a few highlights from this up-and-coming destination. This city is host to some of the most outstanding luxury boutique hotels in Latin America – and any holiday to Colombia would be incomplete without staying a night or two. Those interested in history will not be disappointed as the city’s rich past can be traced back through the various museum collections, including the interesting Joyeria Caribe Museum which focuses on the mining industry. The old walled city is a joy to walk around and the beautiful warm climate perfect for outside dining or romantic horse-drawn carriage rides through the city. Here visitors can admire the multi-coloured buildings which are painted in a classically Colombian style, not to mention extremely photogenic. The streets are lively and yet feel traditional, with plenty of colonial architecture and local women selling baskets of fruit. For a mix of city and beach, Cartagena can also offer some fabulous destinations just a short distance away, due to its convenient location on the Caribbean coastline. The city beaches are pleasant enough, but the true beauty lies further out to sea, where there is a collection of islands which truly represent paradise. The Rosario Islands sit surrounded by turquoise ocean, coral reef and palm-lined white sands and a day trip by boat will give you a taster of this idyllic island escape.

WHERE TO STAY

Our favourite luxury hotels

Casa San Agustin Cartagena Colombia

Casa San Agustin

A luxurious small hotel, lovingly restored and re-imagined for a new generation of travellers. The exquisite Casa San Agustin echoes Cartagena’s fresh contemporary style and colourful Caribbean sensibility. Refined yet relaxed, its trio of colonial era white-washed buildings exudes the warmth of a magnificently appointed private residence. From original frescoes in the library to centuries-old wood-beamed ceilings in the guest rooms, Casa San Agustín’s art and architecture evoke the city’s rich history as 17th century Spanish stronghold. The showpiece of the Casa San Agustin is the Alma Restaurant. A spirited culinary setting where fashionable locals and guests share a passion for inspired coastal Colombian cuisine.

Casa Pestagua

Known as “the most beautiful house in Cartagena”, Casa Pestagua once belonged to the 18th Century Count of Pestagua, a rich and powerful aristocrat. His name lives on in this beautiful colonial mansion which is now a luxury hotel. Recently restored and now bearing the exclusive Relais & Chateaux brand, this historical building is in the traditional colonial style and centres around a stunning courtyard peppered with tropical plants which surround the hotel’s swimming pool. Indulge in one of the 3 Suites, 8 Junior Suites or 5 spacious Deluxe rooms, enjoy breakfast amid the orchid gardens of Anima restaurant, and delight in an enticing selection of signature cocktails at its cozy bar.

Sofitel Cartagena Columbia

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena

Vintage meets contemporary; the Sofitel Santa Clara Hotel is a luxurious combination of age-old tradition, local hospitality and modern luxury in a a 17th century convent. Colonial architecture and modern comforts meet to create an exclusive style and the personalised service that we have come to expect from the Sofitel name. There are 122 luxurious rooms including 6 suites, all decorated with a fresh and stylish décor, perfectly complementing the Caribbean heat and maintaining the elegant style. Each is equipped with a spacious shower, LCD TV, special Sofitel ‘MyBed’ and complimentary Wi-Fi as standard. The two restaurants offer delicious dishes infused with local flavours. From brasserie style to haute cuisine, there is something to suit all tastes and accompanied by an extensive wine list. The spa is a place of true relaxation and tranquillity.

Casablanca B&B Cartagena Colombia

Casablanca B&B

Casablanca B&B is located within an extraordinary republican house which dates back to the 19th century in the heart of the old quarters of beautiful Cartagena. The white wash house was recently restored to an extremely high standard to provide guests with an unparalleled experience of modern luxury. The ample corridors, surrounded by the coolness of water fountains, tropical vegetation and two indoor patios, will take guests to a picture perfect place for relaxation and tranquillity. On the third floor, an ample terrace offers views of the classic Cartagenean scenery: the old city walls, the ocean on the horizon and the colourful sunset. There is also a pool on the terrace, massage services for guests and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout.

Ananda Cartagena Columbia

Anandá Hotel Boutique

The Ananda is a beautiful hotel in the heart of Cartagena’s centro historico, close to the city walls. The name Ananda reflects the Sanskrit work meaning ‘state of bliss’ and this is certainly an extremely relaxing place to stay. Dating back to the early sixteenth century, the hotel is newly renovated and the former colonial house and is surrounded by fashionable boutiques, art galleries and gourmet restaurants. The Hotel Anandá has 23 suites in three different categories – luxury, deluxe and superior junior suite. All the 23 rooms feature wood beamed ceilings, dark brown wood, white cotton, red weavings, marble floors, Egyptian cotton sheets, LCD TVs, a minibar and the property has Wi-Fi throughout.