There are plenty of ways to have fun while visiting Medellin, but there are just as many options in the areas surrounding the city. For many tourists, glamping near Medellin in areas like Guatape or El Retiro is an enticing option; this lets them spend a few days away from the city, without leaving the area altogether. Both towns are a fairly short drive from Medellin, and glamping spots are located in the countryside nearby.
What makes a particular spot a great location for glamping, though? Aside from the obvious requisite of fantastic glamping facilities, it’s also reasonable to expect a variety of amenities, plus activities in the neighboring towns. This combination of factors has made both Guatape and El Retiro top-rated spots for glamping, whether you’re just taking a day or two to pamper yourself, or you’re on an extended break to enjoy the calming effects of nature.
Best glamping spots in Guatape
Guatape has some of the region’s best glamping sites, with many of them offering a view of Lake Guatape. These are a couple of top picks.
- Levit Glamping
This glamping site advertises itself as the only glamping that will take you to the moon, thanks to its special moon-shaped spheres. While there are more conventional shelters available, the main draw is their hanging spheres that will make you feel like you’re floating between heaven and earth. Each space is relatively private, and comes with a magnificent lakeside view, a netted hammock, a hot tub, and a terrace. Guests are often greeted with mojitos by the charming staff, and that’s just the beginning of the adventure. Other amenities (both free and paid) include paddleboats, kayaks, hikes, massages, movie screenings, and bonfires. It should be noted that this glamping site only accommodates adults.
- Glamping Domo Geodesico
If you’re looking for a spot that offers complete privacy from other glampers, this could be the one for you – the entire site consists of one dome! It’s quite roomy, and can accommodate 2 adults and 2 children over five. There’s a private jacuzzi and good WiFi, plus paid activities like cruises on the lake, fishing, biking, paddle surfing, and kayaking. Pets are allowed too (on request). Some reviews commented on hearing noises from nearby farms, but this wasn’t an issue for most visitors.
Marina in Guatape
What to do while glamping in Guatape
There’s a reason why most glamping sites offer a number of activities for their guests; even if they’re there to take in the beauty of nature, they still have to find something with which to fill the time. For shorter stays, the activities offered right there at the site may be enough. For longer stays (or for people who just like a busier schedule), the nearest town may offer some tempting activities as well.
The town of Guatape is small, making it the perfect destination for a day-trip. It’s also ideal if you ever need to refresh your supplies while glamping, as you can purchase all of the essentials there. These are some of the most popular activities in Guatape:
- Piedra del Peñol
Guatape’s most famous attraction is the Piedra del Peñol, a gigantic rock in Guatape that offers stunning views of the surrounding lake and archipelago. It can be climbed on foot, but no rock-climbing experience is needed; you’ll just have to be willing to scale 659 steps to the top!
- Souvenir shops
Most Colombian souvenir shops tend to be pretty similar; if you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all. However, in Guatape it’s a different story. The town’s shops focus more on handmade items that are both more unique, and higher-quality compared to what you’ll find in most other cities.
- Tuk tuk tour
Tuk tuks are Guatape’s main form of public transportation, and many of the drivers offer tours of the town. If you want to learn more about the colorful houses, vibrant graffiti, and the history of Guatape, one of these tours could be just the ticket.
Best glamping spots in El Retiro
El Retiro is located about 1 hour away from Medellin, and while it doesn’t offer the same lakeside views, it has no shortage of gorgeous countryside for glampers. These are some of the best options in the area.
Glamping in El Retiro
There are amazing glamping sites nestled in the scenic outskirts of El Retiro. Guests can enjoy a jacuzzi, air conditioning, a netted hammock, a grill, and WiFi. With the town only being a few kilometers away, this is perfect for anyone who wants to relax in nature, but with the option of temporarily returning to civilization.
You can even rent places like “The House in the Forest”, where you are sure to find complete tranquility. It isn’t quite glamping, but it’s a top-reviewed cabin that lets you escape to nature – without leaving modern amenities behind. There’s a terrace, a fully equipped kitchen, WiFi, and free vegetarian breakfast each morning.
What to do while glamping in El Retiro
Both the town and nearby areas offer plenty of fun activities, whether you feel like hiking in the fresh air, or chilling out at a local café.
This park is perfect for some light hiking, with plenty of native flora and fauna, a lake, and beautiful views. There are picnic areas available, and even grills if you feel so inclined.
- Local coffee shops
Coffee isn’t a common reason to visit a town, but El Retiro is located in one of Colombia’s premier coffee-growing regions. If you stop by a local café, you surely won’t regret it.
- Colorful houses and scenic streets
El Retiro is one of those towns that is a delight to simply wander through. It’s an old Colombian town in the region. Many of the houses are brightly painted, and there’s a historic church in the town square that’s worth checking out as well.
There’s no shortage of things to do while glamping in Guatape or El Retiro
Glamping is all about returning to nature, while still being pampered with modern amenities. If you’ve did a bunch of Medellin tours and want a break from the big city, glamping near one of these towns could be exactly what you need.
