THE BEAUTIFUL LITTLE TOWN OF JARDIN IN COLOMBIA
Looking for things to do and see in Jardin in Antioquia, Colombia? Wandering how many days to spend? Well, you're in the right place.
A little bit of heaven. Jardin is one of those places I heard about on the road from locals and travellers. I just had to go and check it out for myself.
Hopping on a bus from Medellin, I arrived on a cloudy morning. As I strolled to my hostel through the main square, Colombians of all ages dressed in cowboy gear played dominos around the centre of town sipping on coffee on a cool, fresh day.
I instantly fell in love with Jardin and couldn't wait to put my bag down. Picking up my camera, I started exploring.
Things to do in Jardin, Colombia
Hanging out around the main square
Hiking to the Jesus Statue
Calm and serene, nestled in the mountains, I spent my first-afternoon hiking around luscious green hills.
Head to the north of the town and at the intersection of Carrera 2 and Calle 13, a path will take you up into the hills, around and back down to the Jesus statue.
The view of Jardin from the cafe at the foot of the Jesus statue is wonderful and a lovely place to watch the sunset.
In the afternoon, I pretty much had the whole place to myself, listening to the bells and carriages echoing from the town.
To head back to Jardin, there's a small path going down on the left, past the lulu trees.
You can also take cable cars to the Jesus Statue however when I went the cable cars were no longer functioning and looked like they have been out of service for quite some time.
Hostel in Jardin
Hiking to the waterfalls
On the opposite side of town there's a trail that begins at the end of Carrera 7, down by the yellow bridge. Cross the bridge and continue walking past the farms and banana plantations.
The trail loops around and you'll arrive at Cascada del Amor just opposite a very beautiful hotel.
Blissful and tranquil, this is what Jardin is about. It was exactly what I needed, a great place to getaway form the hustle and bustle of Medellin.
Banana plantations
Coffee farm tours
There are numerous coffee farm tours in and around Jardin. If I had one regret from Colombia, it's not stocking up on more coffee before I left!
Cueva de Esplendor
A waterfall shooting through a cave, this seems like the thing to do in Jardin. Heading there on a horseback riding tour is a great way to experience the greenery of Colombia's countryside.
I decided against it as sometimes certain attractions can be somewhat underwhelming after some time on the road. Nevertheless, there are many tour companies which your hostel can inform you about or you can hike there.
Sunset in Jardin
Get a good cup of coffee
Spend your afternoons' people watching from Delos Andes cafe in the main square with a latte.
Looking down onto the main square, you'll probably find locals partaking in a favourite pastime of Colombia, dominos or even a game of chess.
Consulado Vegetal
A vegan restaurant on the edge of town, getting brunch along with a ginger, lime and turmeric shot is a great way to start the day.
I only wish I had found this place sooner! I totally would have gone back!
Where to stay in Jardin, Colombia
If staying somewhere green, near the mountains, waking up to the mooing of cows and singing of birds is for you, then head to Casa Hotel Portón Campestre.
A short walk from town and a really peaceful place to stay, the staff are really lovely providing tips on things to do in Jardin.
You can check prices and availability here.
Views out onto the hills
Creo Ecolodge Jardín: Surrounded by nature with a 30-minute walk to town, it's the kind of place you might book one night and then keep on extending. There are loads of opportunities for hiking nearby for those of you with eager trekking toes.
Check out prices and availability here.
Sergeant Pepper's Hostel: For a budget hostel more centrally located, this hostel is only a 2-minute walk from the main square.
Check out prices and availability here.
Candileja hostel: Friendly staff and great breakfast, you'll be one block from the main square. This old colonial-style hostel is unique and great for those looking for budget accommodation with a homely feel.
How to get to Jardin
From Medellin, take Rapido Ocho from the bus station terminal sur, counter 34. You can buy tickets in advance on busbud.com for $26,000 COP one way but just be sure to print it out before you go.
From Salento, you'll need to take the bus to Riosucio and change to get the bus to Jardin.
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