Jardín

Location

Jardín, Antioquia
3 Hours from Medellin
132.9 km (82 miles)

Official Website

eljardin-antioquia.gov.co

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A Cozy Colonial Town

Jardin is a charming town nestled in the picturesque mountains of Antioquia a couple of hours of drive away from Medellin. With its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking scenery, Jardin is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil getaway, Jardin has something to offer for everyone. Let’s explore this quaint Colombian town and discover its wonders!

One of the main attractions of Jardin is its stunning natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush green mountains and coffee plantations, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Take a stroll through the town’s vibrant streets and admire the colorful houses adorned with flower-filled balconies. Visit the Parque Principal (Main Park), which is the heart of Jardin and is famous for its well-manicured gardens, a beautiful church, and a central fountain. Relax on one of the benches and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

For breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, take a ride on the town’s iconic cable car, known as “El Teleferico.” The cable car takes you on a scenic journey above Jardin, offering awe-inspiring views of the mountains, valleys, and coffee plantations below. Don’t forget your camera as the views from the cable car are truly Instagram-worthy!

History

Jardin has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. The town’s history is closely intertwined with the region’s coffee industry, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike. Jardin was founded in the late 19th century by Spanish settlers who were attracted to the area’s fertile lands and mild climate, ideal for coffee cultivation.

The town’s name “Jardin,” which means “garden” in Spanish, is said to have been inspired by the area’s lush green landscapes and abundant flowers. The Spanish influence is evident in the town’s well-preserved colonial architecture, with colorful houses adorned with intricate balconies and ornate facades that still stand today.

Local festivals and traditions are also an integral part of Jardin’s cultural heritage. The annual Flower Festival, celebrated in August, is a highlight of the town’s cultural calendar, with the famous “desfile de silleteros” or flower parade being a colorful spectacle that showcases the region’s floral diversity and cultural traditions.

Things To Do in Jardin

Jardin offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the town’s historical landmarks to immersing in its natural beauty, Jardin has something for everyone. Here are some of the activities you can do in and around Jardin:

Take a Ride on El Teleferico

Jardin’s iconic cable car, “El Teleferico,” offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can take a thrilling ride on the cable car and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the lush green landscapes that surround the town. The cable car is a popular attraction in Jardin, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the area’s natural beauty.

Explore the Town's Historical Landmarks

Jardin is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, with colorful houses adorned with intricate balconies and ornate facades. You can take a stroll through the town’s cobbled streets and marvel at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a grand church with a pink façade and intricate carvings. You can also visit the Parque Principal, the town’s main square, which is surrounded by historic buildings and offers a glimpse into Jardin’s cultural heritage.

Visit Coffee Plantations

Coffee is a significant part of Jardin’s history and culture, and you can’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the many coffee plantations in the area. You can take a guided tour and learn about the coffee production process, from harvesting to roasting, and even participate in a coffee tasting session. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about Colombia’s world-renowned coffee industry and sample some delicious coffee.

Enjoy Ecotourism Activities

Jardin is also a hub for ecotourism, with many activities that allow you to immerse in the area’s natural beauty while learning about its flora and fauna. You can take a guided horseback riding tour through the coffee plantations, go bird watching to spot some of Colombia’s colorful bird species, or take a nature hike in the cloud forest to learn about the local ecosystem.

Experience Local Culture

Jardin is known for its vibrant culture, and there are plenty of ways to experience it firsthand. You can participate in traditional crafts workshops, such as wood carving or weaving, and learn from local artisans about their traditional techniques. You can also join in local festivals and celebrations, such as the annual Flower Festival in August, where you can witness the town’s colorful traditions and immerse in the local culture.

Relax in Parque Principal

The Main Park, or Parque Principal, is a serene spot in Jardin where you can relax and enjoy the town’s atmosphere. The park is well-manicured, with lush gardens, a central fountain, and plenty of benches where you can sit and take in the surroundings. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring and soak in the charm of Jardin.

All in all, Jardin offers a diverse range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from exploring its historical landmarks to immersing in its natural beauty and experiencing its vibrant culture. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or simply looking to relax in a serene mountain town, Jardin has something to offer. So, come and discover the magic of Jardin and create unforgettable memories in this hidden

Restaurants & Drinks

Jardin offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for traditional Colombian cuisine, international flavors, street food, or just a cozy café to relax in, Jardin has something to offer for every food and drink lover.

Jardin offers a variety of dining options, ranging from traditional Colombian cuisine to international flavors. Below are some general areas where you can eat and drink in Jardin:

Parque Principal

The main square of Jardin, known as Parque Principal, is a bustling area with several cafes, restaurants, and street food vendors. You can find traditional Colombian dishes such as bandeja paisa, a hearty plate with beans, rice, meat, plantains, and avocado, or try local favorites like trucha (trout) or sancocho (a hearty meat and vegetable stew). You can also enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Colombian coffee or indulge in some delicious pastries and desserts

Calle de la Amargura

This narrow street, known as Calle de la Amargura, is lined with colorful houses that have been turned into cozy restaurants and cafes. Here, you can find a variety of cuisines, including Colombian, Italian, and Mexican, as well as some vegetarian and vegan options. You can dine in a charming setting with beautiful views of the town and the mountains while savoring delicious food

Coffee Plantations

Some of the coffee plantations in and around Jardin also offer dining options for visitors. You can enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch or dinner prepared with local ingredients while surrounded by the beautiful coffee fields. It’s a unique experience that allows you to combine your love for coffee with delicious food

Local Bars and Cafes

Jardin has several local bars and cafes where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a cup of coffee. You can relax in a cozy café and sip on some Colombian coffee while enjoying the town’s ambiance. In the evening, you can visit one of the local bars and enjoy some of the region’s craft beers, cocktails, or traditional aguardiente, a local liquor made from sugar cane.

How To Get There

There are several transport options to get from Medellin to Jardin. Jardin is located around 3 to 4 hours away from Medellin and is easily reachable by road. Let’s discuss some of the most common travel options and their pros and cons:

Bus: Buses are the most common mode of transportation between Medellin and Jardin. There are regular bus services that operate between the two towns, and the journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the route and the bus company. Buses typically depart from Medellin’s South Terminal (Terminal del Sur) and arrive at Jardin’s main bus station. The buses are comfortable, and you can enjoy scenic views of the countryside during the journey.

Private Car or Taxi: Another option is to hire a private car or take a taxi from Medellin to Jardin. This is a more expensive option but offers the convenience of a direct and flexible mode of transportation. The journey takes around 3 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. It’s a good option if you prefer a more personalized and private experience, or if you are traveling with a group. You can also stop at small towns on the way to take photos or eat at local restaurants.

Shared Shuttle: Some tour operators or travel agencies offer shared shuttle services between Medellin and Jardin. This is a convenient option if you prefer a more organized and hassle-free mode of transportation. Shared shuttles usually operate in small groups and provide door-to-door service, picking you up from your hotel in Medellin and dropping you off at your destination in Jardin.

Motorcycle: For adventure seekers and motorcycle enthusiasts, renting a motorcycle or riding your own bike from Medellin to Jardin can be a thrilling option. The journey takes you through scenic mountain roads and offers a unique experience of exploring the countryside on two wheels. However, this option requires a valid motorcycle license and experience in riding in challenging terrain.

Once you reach Jardin, getting around the town is easy as it is a small town with most of the attractions within walking distance. You can also rent bicycles or take local taxis to explore the surrounding areas or visit nearby attractions.