Cartagena is one of South America’s most enchanting colonial cities. Enticing boutique hotels are already a feature of the Centro Histórico (walled city), with newer properties starting to appear in hip, artsy Getsemaní. Most hotels feature an elegant colonial Spanish theme (in keeping with the city’s history) but with plenty of individual touches and splashes of modern art, and there are even swish, contemporary options to consider.
## A Deeper Dive into Cartagena’s Boutique Hotel Scene
Cartagena, a city steeped in history and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of accommodation options. But for those seeking a more personalized and intimate experience, the city’s boutique hotels are the perfect choice. These havens of tranquility and style offer a unique glimpse into Cartagena’s rich past and present, providing guests with an unforgettable stay. Let’s explore some of the most exceptional boutique hotels that Cartagena has to offer, each with its own distinct character and charm.
## Alfiz Hotel: A Journey Through Time
For an immersive and truly intimate experience, consider the Alfiz. This exceptional establishment boasts just eight luxurious rooms, each imbued with a palpable sense of history. The hotel is housed within a magnificent mansion that has stood for over 300 years, witnessing countless transformations. Over the centuries, the building has served as offices, bustling warehouses, and even the residence of British Consul Edward Watts in the 1820s, a notable supporter of the renowned liberator, Simón Bolívar. The very walls of the Alfiz whisper tales of bygone eras and significant historical events.
Today, the Alfiz Hotel has been meticulously restored and adorned with period art and antique furniture, creating an atmosphere of refined elegance and timeless beauty. Guests will find themselves surrounded by luxurious amenities, including generously sized bathtubs and invigorating showers. The hotel also offers a selection of cozy nooks, inviting guests to relax, doze, or immerse themselves in a captivating book. These inviting spaces feature exquisite tiled floors, beautifully preserved original brick arches, and impressive exposed coffered ceilings, showcasing the architectural heritage of the building.
Each of the eight rooms at the Alfiz, some of which are designed as split-level suites, boasts its own unique historical leitmotif, creating a personalized and engaging experience for every guest. The décor of each room is carefully curated to reflect its chosen theme, from the religious simplicity and serenity of the “San Pedro Claver” suite to the adventurous and nautical-themed ambiance of the “Piratas” room. Staying at the Alfiz is not merely a hotel stay; it’s a journey through time, an opportunity to connect with the captivating history of Cartagena in a truly personal way.
## Allure Chocolat: Contemporary Chic in Getsemaní
Nestled in the vibrant and increasingly popular Getsemaní neighborhood, Allure Chocolat presents a stylish and contemporary alternative to Cartagena’s predominantly colonial offerings. Often more competitively priced than its counterparts within the walled city, this hotel offers a refreshing and modern aesthetic. The rooms are characterized by a chic, all-white design, creating a bright and airy ambiance. Many of the rooms overlook a lush vertical garden, bringing a touch of nature indoors, while the more luxurious rooms offer enchanting panoramic views of the city.
The roof deck and pool area at Allure Chocolat provide the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can unwind by the pool, soaking up the Caribbean sunshine and enjoying the gentle breezes that waft in across the bay. The rooftop terrace offers a stunning vantage point for admiring the cityscape, especially as the sun sets, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Allure Chocolat is a haven of contemporary elegance, providing a stylish and comfortable base from which to explore the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood and the wider city of Cartagena.
## Anandá Hotel Boutique: Where Luxury Meets Eclecticism
For those seeking unparalleled luxury and refined elegance, the Anandá Hotel Boutique is the quintessential choice. While the hotel retains elements of its Spanish colonial roots, its décor is far more eclectic, creating a unique and captivating ambiance. Tranquil 18th-century stone courtyards are enhanced with unexpected touches, such as serene Buddha statues, eye-catching African lampshades, and elegant Asian teak furniture. This fusion of styles creates a harmonious and intriguing atmosphere, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Cartagena’s identity.
The Anandá features 24 beautifully appointed rooms, each boasting original timber-beamed ceilings and charming tiled floors, showcasing the architectural heritage of the building. The hotel also offers three airy roof terraces and two patios shaded by fragrant almond trees, providing guests with ample space to relax and unwind in the open air. The rooftop pool offers another tranquil spot to end the day, providing a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. The Anandá Hotel Boutique is a sanctuary of luxury and style, offering a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of Cartagena.
## Casa del Arzobispado: A Palace of Art and History
Art and history enthusiasts will undoubtedly fall head over heels for Casa del Arzobispado, a magnificent seventeenth-century palace where they can relive Cartagena’s colonial golden age. This stunning property was once the home of Colombian independence hero Antonio José de Ayos, adding to its historical significance and allure. The hotel’s 10 luxurious rooms feature beautifully decorated beds and blossom-smothered verandas that surround a romantic courtyard pool. The air is filled with the sweet scent of tropical flowers, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Colonial art is liberally displayed throughout the hotel, further enhancing its historical charm and artistic appeal. Guests will find themselves surrounded by exquisite paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into Cartagena’s rich cultural heritage. Staying at Casa del Arzobispado is like stepping back in time, immersing oneself in the opulence and grandeur of the colonial era.
## Casa Pestagua Hotel Boutique: Moorish Influences and Colonial Grandeur
Another breathtaking colonial mansion meticulously restored to its former glory, the Casa Pestagua, was built in the 18th century by the Count of Pestagua, a minor Spanish nobleman. This elegant hotel showcases enigmatic Mudéjar (Moorish) influences, evident in its ochre walls, intricately painted ceilings, period furnishings, and marble statues that are strategically placed throughout the property. The fusion of Spanish colonial and Moorish architectural styles creates a unique and captivating aesthetic, reflecting the complex history of the region.
The back courtyard boasts a gorgeous swimming pool, providing a refreshing oasis in the tropical heat. An especially large patio is graced with eight stately palm trees, creating a tranquil and inviting space for relaxation. The hotel’s 11 comfortable rooms open onto the garden, allowing guests to easily access the pool and patio area. A rare treat for a historic property, the Casa Pestagua offers an elevator, ensuring accessibility for all guests. The rooms are decorated in colonial- and Art Deco-style, featuring parquet floors and wonderfully high ceilings, adding to the sense of grandeur and elegance.
## Casa Quero: Contemporary Style Meets Colonial Charm
Casa Quero seamlessly blends contemporary style with colonial art, creating a friendly and inviting boutique hotel. Known for its exceptional personal service and freshly prepared meals, Casa Quero is a particularly good choice for those seeking a comfortable and classy stay without breaking the bank. The rooms feature a bright blue and white Neo-Baroque theme, characterized by ornate period-style beds and furnishings with distressed wood, juxtaposed with the latest modern amenities, such as iPod docks, jacuzzis, and plasma TVs.
The enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff at Casa Quero are a valuable resource for local information, readily offering recommendations and arranging a variety of tours and restaurant bookings. Their dedication to providing personalized service ensures that every guest has a memorable and enjoyable stay. Casa Quero offers a winning combination of style, comfort, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for exploring the wonders of Cartagena.
## Casa San Agustín: A Haven for Celebrities and Discerning Travelers
Casa San Agustín is undoubtedly one of Cartagena’s most venerated historic hotels, attracting a high-profile clientele, including celebrities and discerning travelers. This exclusive establishment exudes an air of timeless elegance and sophistication. The colonial-era white-washed complex features original frescoes in the library and impressive timber beams in the rooms, showcasing the architectural heritage of the building. Period pieces, such as intricately crafted ironwork beds and dazzling chandeliers, are seamlessly blended with modern amenities, including iPads, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary phone calls to the US.
Despite having 30 rooms, Casa San Agustín maintains the intimate feel of a personal residence, albeit one belonging to a very wealthy family. Guests can relax at the soothing rooftop solarium or take a refreshing dip in the shaded pool, offering a cool respite from the sweltering Cartagena afternoons. The on-site Alma Restaurant is widely regarded as one of the city’s finest dining establishments. To further enhance the guest experience, fresh fruit is served daily in each room.
## Hotel Quadrifolio: A Mansion Transformed
One of the most beautiful mansions in Cartagena was painstakingly converted into the Hotel Quadrifolio, transforming it from near ruins into a stunning boutique hotel. What truly distinguishes this historic gem from its peers is its spaciousness. With only eight rooms, a significant portion of the interior is dedicated to public areas, creating a sense of openness and grandeur. These communal spaces include a welcoming living room-like reception area, a well-stocked library, a large pool and Jacuzzi terrace, two charming patios, and an open dining room.
The hotel’s design theme is predominantly colonial, reflecting the fact that the building was constructed in the 1700s. However, the period decor is tastefully enhanced with ornaments and antiques sourced from Chile, Brazil, and the Middle East, creating a unique and eclectic atmosphere. Each room is individually decorated, ensuring that no two are alike, further adding to the hotel’s distinctive charm. Hotel Quadrifolio offers a truly unforgettable experience, combining historical elegance with modern comfort and personalized service.
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