The best way to travel to a new country? With a local! A friend of mine is originally from Colombia so when he invited us along to a trip home, we were excited to accept.
If you’re looking to escape to Colombia’s stunning countryside, Filandia and Salento should be at the top of your list. These charming towns are not just picturesque—they’re full of Colombian culture, vibrant architecture, and, of course, delicious food and coffee.
Where we stayed
We stayed in an apartment in Pereira, which is a larger city but offers an excellent home base for exploring the surrounding towns. We also stayed a couple nights at the family farm about 10 minutes outside of the city. The architecture here blends modern and colonial styles, and the food is just as amazing as in the smaller towns.
Where we visited
Filandia and Salento are two gems in Colombia’s famous Coffee Triangle. Salento, in particular, served as the inspiration for the colorful town in the animated film Encanto, and walking through the streets here, you can totally see the magic. The architecture in both towns is colorful and quaint, with colonial buildings and narrow streets lined with artisan shops.
In Filandia, I found some of the best local crafts and gorgeous mountain views. Both towns are surrounded by coffee farms, so the landscapes are dotted with lush greenery, rolling hills, and towering mountains. If you’ve never seen a coffee plantation, visiting one of these farms is a must. You can learn all about how Colombia’s world-famous coffee is grown and harvested, and of course, taste a fresh cup of the local brew.
Activities and food
Natural Hot Springs & Full-Service Spa
One of the highlights of our time in the region was the visit to the natural hot springs at Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal. Soaking in the warm waters surrounded by mountains was incredibly relaxing. We also spent time on a family farm, where we got a taste of local life and enjoyed homegrown food. And to top it off, we indulged in a full-service spa experience—seriously, pure bliss!
Food & Coffee Heaven
The food in this region is delicious—everything is so fresh and much of it is homemade. From fresh fruit to lean grilled meats, the flavors are rich and comforting. And let’s not forget the coffee—it’s the best I’ve ever had! The people here are coffee experts, and whether you’re visiting a farm or a café, you can count on a perfect cup every time. I swear this is the only place I can drink coffee black.
The Cats of Colombia
And for all you cat lovers out there, let me tell you about the cats. Everywhere we went, there were friendly felines lounging in the sun, wandering the streets, and making for the perfect companions. Of course, I couldn’t resist petting them every chance I got!
Notes
For this part of the country, a car will make your life 10x easier!
Be prepared to know Spanish, or have your Google translate at the ready because very few people know English.
If you’re staying in a hotel, make sure to inquire if they have hot water! Most homes in Colombia don’t have water heaters so cold showers are the norm.
Whether you’re looking to relax in nature, indulge in local delicacies, or learn about coffee culture, this region offers an authentic experience that feels both charming and rejuvenating. The mountain views, combined with the welcoming atmosphere and amazing food, will leave you craving more. Definitely a highlight of my travels!
Samantha Shammas, Author
A true travel enthusiast, Samantha has been going around the globe her entire life and has visited over 35 countries and counting. With a lust to wander, she’s always excited to visit new places and soak in inspiration for her artwork.
