MEDELLIN
Energetic and super friendly, Medellin has risen from the ashes of its turbulent past to become a cultural highlight of Colombia.
Encircled by mountains and spread across a valley, Medellin benefits from a central location in this fabulous country. Once the home to the infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar the city has been transformed from a centre of cocaine cartels to what is now one of Latin America’s most vibrant and liveable cities. The glitz of a big city combines with the old colonial charms of Colombia’s rich history to create a wonderfully laid back vibe. As with much of Colombia, museums and exhibitions highlighting the city’s fascinating past are commonplace, as are chic bars and restaurants. The unusual works of sculptor Botero feature prominently downtown, while a trip on the cable car will provide photogenic views of the city from above. For a unique experience, a day trip to the nearby flower farm would add an enjoyable twist to a luxury holiday in Colombia. Local people love flowers and extravagantly decorate houses, streets and plazas with exotic and brightly coloured blooms. In the farm you can admire the many plants that also attract visitors such as hummingbirds and colourful butterflies while the annual Flower Festival is a huge city wide event. An hour from the city is the small colourful colonial town of Guatapé which is surrounded by man-made lakes, at the centre of whic is the impressive mountain of El Peñón, a massive stone rising over 650 feet which was once worshiped by the Tahamies Indians. Visitors can take the 740 steps to the top from where there are fabulous views over a dramatic landscape of lakes and islands. The area makes an excellent addition to a stay in Medellin.
WHERE TO STAY
Our favourite luxury hotels
El Cielo Hotel
El Cielo Hotel is a luxurious and contemporary boutique hotel, nestled in the heart of the vibrant El Poblado neighbourhood The architecture is striking, featuring sleek lines, glass facades, and innovative use of space. The hotel’s interior design reflects a sophisticated elegance, with stylish furnishings and tasteful decor throughout. The hotel boasts spacious rooms and suites. The culinary experience is exceptional. The hotel is home to Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos, who has gained international recognition for his innovative approach to Colombian cuisine. Guests can savour a fusion of flavors, using locally sourced ingredients and creative techniques that delight the palate. There is a well-equipped fitness centre, as well as a spa while the rooftop terrace provides panoramic views of Medellin.
Park 10
Located close to Parque Lleras, the Park 10 Hotel has easy access to the excellent bars and restaurants that this area is famous for. If you would rather stay within the hotel, it too has wonderful dining options in its 2 restaurants; La Fragata and La Terrraza. Other hotel facilities include complimentary wifi throughout, a gymnasium and a full spa. One unique feature of the Hotel Park 10 is that guests benefit from complimentary admission to the El Rodeo Country Club in Medellín, where they can enjoy a round of golf. Guest rooms are spacious and peaceful, with 24 hour room service plus a living room, dining room, desk and wired or wireless Internet, a flat screen LCD TV, room safe, air conditioning. Each bathroom has luxurious marble finishing’s, bathtub, hair dryer and wall-mounted mirror.
Patio del Mundo
Patio del Mundo is a charming villa in the heart of Medellin, lovingly restored by a French family. With lush tropical gardens and an enchanting view, it offers a unique setting for you to enjoy your stay in ‘The City of Eternal Spring’. Full of character and vibrant textiles, Patio del Mundo is a tranquil getaway, where guests can relax in a garden filled with wild orchids and mango trees. Out on the terrace where breakfast is served, there is a relaxing murmur of a nearby river and the chirping of birds. This same terrace later turns into a stage for cocktails from the bar whilst enjoying the sunset. After a day exploring the city, guests can return to the oasis that is Patio del Mundo and relax in hammocks and couches on the terrace, or enjoy a soak in the jacuzzi, before heading to one of the 7 sumptuously decorated rooms.
Cannúa Hotel
Cannúa Hotel is located an hour and a half from Medellín and 40 minutes from the international airport. The countryside property has 18 rooms on a 27-acre estate with lots of activities and a spa. There’s a fine-dining restaurant and each day the chefs source produce from the organic gardens as well as edible flowers that bring out beautiful and surprising flavours. The four rooms types range from the 20msq standard room, through to the 65 msq Junior Suite Bungalow which is split over two levels two storey with huge windows and enjoys breathtaking views of the San Nicolas Valley. On site activities range from a coffee workshop and tasting, chocolate and rum tasting, massages, bird watching, yoga as well as various hikes.