This is a north central part of the country with craggy mountains lots of rivers and a very dry temperate climate. It is a favorite for outdoor lovers and for us that meant mainly hiking. Oh and eating! Santander is known for its scrumptious food.
Early morning as we leave Lago de Tota with Louis, the Airbnb overseer, looking on to the valley.
We now head to San Gil, a well-known spot for white water rafting and other outdoor river sports. We choose to stay in a hostel, Lost Inn (hostelworld.com) , up a mountain overlooking the city. Perfect choice. From here we were able to take a day walk, on a delightful small road to Pescaderito, and its five free swimming holes.
Top left: one of our bedrooms at Lost Inn; on our hike: crossing brooks, unlocking bathroom doors (thanks Teunis), passing many grazing animals.
At the furthest water hole where we frolocked after hiking 3 hours in hot sun; airplane hotel sighting on our return home; and city view at dusk from hostel’s communal lounging platform.
Before dinner we played the national sport, Tejo, in which mini dynamite goes off when you hit the target!
Setting up Tejo and Adriana takes aim. Barry is only one to set off sparks – twice!
After a night of games (table-tennis billiards), and a campfire with roasted marshmallows and guitar… We head the next day to…
BARICHARA
This Colonial town is understandably a favourite of filmmakers: setting high up in the mountains, red-tiled roofs, whitewashed buildings with green trim. 300 years old.
The setting.
Capilla de Jesús, street views.
After witnessing a magnificant sunset over the mountains, we sniff out a special dinner spot, Shanti Recetas para el Alma, with its fresh Thai/Columbian fusion.
The next day we arouse ourselves a wee bit earlier to walk El Camino Real to Guane, a small indigenous hamlet nine km away.
Our starting point for hike to Guane.
Sights along the way.
Upon reaching Guane we enjoy helado (ice cream) on the lovely main square and take a peek (there is a service in progress) in Santa Lucía Iglesia, built in 1720.
Top: Santa Lucía Iglesia; Bottom: fossils of turtles found around base of a monument in the plaza.
It’s hot here. We opt to return to Barichara by bus.
Back in Barichara, Columbian dinner at Don Juan’s, typical corner store and door ornament.
Early morning start to 3 hour trip from Barichara north to Bucaramanga via San Gil.
Burgers for dinner at friendly Barrio Central Pub, an evening visit to nearby Botero sculpture, and early morning view from our first 5 star hotel (treat) , Hotel Chicamocha.
Next up… Santa Marta on the Carribean. Terrific scenario and people so far yet looking forward to ocean!
Kerry Travels 