Boutique Hotels in Cartagena, Colombia
Renovated Small Hotels Were Former Homes in This UNESCO City
Apr 29, 2009
Tucked away behind wooden doors with heavy knockers, most of Cartagena de Indias boutique hotels were the homes of the city's elite who abandoned them long ago. Today, their beautiful renovations keep European travelers and American Embassy visitors returning to the cozy accommodations with limited capacity. Most offer large-screen plasma TVs; Internet; king-size beds and spacious, airy rooms. There's no official boutique-hotel association; however, the establishments listed below are top-notch.
Casa Quero Has a Legend
Known as one of the highest houses in town, two years ago it was turned into a boutique hotel with eight rooms. The resident toucan has a special cage in the inner courtyard and often sips from visitors' glasses if left unattended. A touching legend about a former owner claims he came to the hotel with a heartache but soon fell in love with another resident. Today, the hotelier-owner claims if you come with a heartache or with an impossible love story, both will be cured. There are several levels, exquisite furnishings and management can arrange a serenade outside a window; a carriage ride; engagement ring embedded in a box and served at dinner, plus other surprises. The kitchen is interactive where guests join in with the chef and can suggest the menu. The rooftop pool is a favorite haunt of the guests, plus the free bicycles keep them moving around the city. Prices begin around $250 a night and includes breakfast.
Casa de Arzobispado Hotel Specializes in Weddings
This stunning establishment was once a 17th century trading house for Spanish merchants, then later sold to a bishop. There are three levels, an arched courtyard covered with ivy and a small pool and Jacuzzi in the center of it all. The property is owned by a Cartagena family who meticulously kept a sense of a home throughout the 10-room hotel. Nothing is overlooked such as a rooftop massage and individual attention that results in most wishes being organized for a guest. Two on-site restaurants have no schedules for dining and the wine cellar carries brands from Chile, Argentina and Spain among other choices. Occupancy is high despite the $350-$450 per night price range that includes a free round-trip transport to the airport.
Casa Pestagua is Close to Plaza Santo Domingo
With its enviable location steps from the Plaza Santo Domingo, this extra-large hotel has 11 rooms on two levels and a stunning entrance. The open-air courtyard has massive palm trees, which are the perfect backdrop for dining. Decorated with a minimalist flair and Colonial antiquities, Casa Pestagua is close to top restaurants, designer shops and street entertainment.
Casa La Fe Offers Last-Minute Specials
This boutique hotel has a fitness center, claiming to be the only one in the city. It's first-class with last-minute rates. Also, Trip Advisor travelers consistently give it high marks.
Tourist Information
Cartagena de Indias has year-round temperatures in the high 80s and 90% humidity. Boutique hotels with their rooftop pool areas are ideal places to cool off. And their locations are close to shopping within the city's walls. Very high season is the end of December for one month so book early. Prices are negotiable, and bargaining is a city-wide trait. An enjoyable overnight or day trip can be taken by boat to Isla Grande where nine hotels dot the island.
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