On the tip of the peninsula of Barú, Hotel Las Islas is a sprawling eco-friendly estate. Just a speedboat ride away from historic city, Cartagena, you can reach it easily by zipping around Cartagena Bay. But, there was something about the thatched-roof bungalows, lush tangle of jungle and pure-white sands that made it feel like a million miles away from anywhere.
Senda Watapuy’s expansive lobby with its beautiful turquoise tiles and open-air deck was a very welcome sight. After spending two days hiking the remote beaches and jungle of Tayrona National Park, we were ready to relax. As our bags were whisked away, we were shown the sparkling infinity pool just beyond, to the sound of evening cocktails being shaken.
Located on the edge of Cartagena’s walled Old Town, the Charleston Santa Teresa is a much-revered landmark and known as ‘the’ place to stay when exploring this colourful city. What was once a 17th-century convent is now a beautifully renovated hotel that’s a mix of historic grandeur and contemporary cool.