A Vibrant Escape to Guatape, Colombia: Exploring Culture and Nature

Adios, Guatape!

As our Colombian adventure draws to a close, Olivia and I decided to dedicate our last day to soaking in the remaining sights and sounds of Guatape. It’s bittersweet, as we’ve truly fallen in love with this vibrant town, but we’re also excited to reflect on all the incredible memories we’ve made. Today was all about those final, lingering moments that often leave the most lasting impressions.

Our final day in Guatapé began with a hearty breakfast at Venezuela Mia. I opted for arepas con queso, a simple yet satisfying way to start the day. Olivia went for the scrambled eggs with plantain. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service set a positive tone for our last day of exploration. It's funny, I never thought I'd find myself enjoying Venezuelan food so much in Colombia, but travel is all about unexpected delights.

Our first stop was Plaza Bicentenario. It’s a space constructed to celebrate the bicentennial of the municipality. The plaza provided a moment to reflect on the history and progress of Guatapé. We took a leisurely stroll, observing the locals going about their Sunday routines, and appreciating the blend of modern and traditional architecture. It’s amazing how a simple plaza can tell so much about a town's identity. It's a reminder of Toronto's own bicentennial celebrations, though I must admit, Guatapé's has a certain charm that Toronto's couldn't quite capture.


Discover the charm of Plaza Bicentenario, a serene park in Guatapé, perfect for relaxation, cultural experiences, and breathtaking views.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

Next on our list was the iconic Letrero GUATAPE. This colorful sign has become a symbol of the town, and we couldn't resist snapping a few photos. The letters are a vibrant canvas of culture and nature. It was a fun and cheerful spot, perfect for capturing a lasting memory of our time here. The area surrounding the sign was bustling with activity, as both tourists and locals gathered to enjoy the picturesque views. I've always been drawn to public art installations, and this one definitely ranks high on my list. It's a great example of how a simple landmark can become a cultural icon.


Discover the vibrant Letrero Guatapé, an iconic landmark showcasing Colombian culture amidst stunning landscapes.

For lunch, we headed to El Castillo Guatape, a restaurant recommended by several locals. The owner, Alex, was incredibly welcoming and offered some fantastic recommendations. Olivia and I shared the cazuela de frijoles and the trucha asado al carbón, both of which were delicious. The guanábana juice was a particular highlight – possibly the best juice I’ve ever had! The restaurant's location in front of the park offered a great view, making our dining experience even more enjoyable. It reminded me of some of the cozy restaurants Olivia and I frequent in Toronto, but with a distinct Colombian twist.


Discover delicious Colombian cuisine with breathtaking views at El Castillo Guatapé – a must-visit dining destination in Antioquia.

In the afternoon, we ventured to Mirador El Águila, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the stunning landscapes. The view from the top was simply breathtaking, with the iconic blue waters of the reservoir stretching out before us. The vibrant colors of the town below added to the enchanting scene. We spent a good hour simply soaking in the serene ambiance and taking photos. It was the perfect spot to reflect on our journey and appreciate the natural beauty of Guatapé. I couldn't help but think about my work as an urban planner and how important it is to preserve these natural landscapes for future generations.


Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Mirador El Águila in Guatapé, a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

As the day wound down, we decided to enjoy a final Colombian dinner at Restaunte La Parilla. The atmosphere was lively and festive. I savored every bite of the bandeja paisa, a traditional Colombian dish that truly captures the essence of the region. Olivia opted for grilled steak. With great satisfaction, we enjoyed the meal while reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip.


Experience the essence of Guatapé at Restaunte La Parilla, where local flavors and vibrant culture come together in a delightful culinary journey.

To cap off our Guatapé adventure, we stopped by La Barra Guatapé for a nightcap. Located on the beautiful Malecon, this bar offered stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. We enjoyed a couple of local beers while listening to music and watching the sunset over the water. It was the perfect way to say goodbye to this charming town. It reminded me of the lively bars back in the British Virgin Islands, where the sunsets are just as magical.


Discover La Barra Guatapé, where vibrant nightlife meets stunning views in the heart of Guatapé, Antioquia.

As we prepare to leave Guatapé, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we’ve shared. This trip has not only been a visual feast but also a cultural immersion that has enriched our understanding of Colombia. The warmth of the people, the vibrant colors of the town, and the stunning natural beauty have left an indelible mark on our hearts. I know that Olivia and I will carry these memories with us long after we’ve returned to Toronto. Guatapé, you’ve been a dream!

Tomorrow, we head back to Medellín to catch our flight home. It’s the end of our Colombian journey, but the beginning of countless stories we’ll be sharing for years to come. Until next time, stay curious and keep exploring!

Safe travels!