Jayda & AJ
Things To Do
Monserrate Mountain
Perched over 10,000 feet above Bogotá, Monserrate Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Andes. Guests can reach the summit by cable car, funicular, or a scenic hike, where the historic church of El Señor Caído and the peaceful Walk of the Cross create a memorable and romantic experience. We visited Monserrate and fell in love with the unforgettable views, a moment we hope our guests will also enjoy. We recommend taking the cable car, trying the coffee bar at the top, and perusing through the souvenir shops!
The Underground Salt Cathedral
Just outside Bogotá, the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is a truly extraordinary landmark. Salt has been mined here since pre-Columbian times, and the first underground cathedral was carved by miners in 1954, with the current cathedral reopening in 1995. Descending through the Stations of the Cross, visitors are greeted by vast, softly lit chambers carved entirely from salt. Visiting the Salt Cathedral was unforgettable for us — a peaceful, awe-inspiring experience we hope our guests will also treasure. If you get the chance to catch an ongoing sermon, take an extra minute to listen to the acoustics of the salt caves. Be sure to checkout the gift shops for some authentic emeralds, gold, and silver pieces! There are also plenty of good eats around Zipaquira! This is accessible from Bogotá, but not from Villa de Leyva.
La Candelaria
Wander through the charming streets of La Candelaria, Bogotá’s historic heart, where colorful colonial buildings, cozy cafés, and boutique shops create a perfect backdrop for exploration. Discover the neighborhood’s rich culture in its museums, or pause in the iconic Plaza de Bolívar, surrounded by grand architecture and the city’s cathedral. With delightful restaurants and endless corners full of history and character, La Candelaria offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking both romance and adventure in the heart of Bogotá. Just pop "La Candelaria" into your GPS and see what the historical center has to offer!
Ráquira
Nestled in the Andean hills, Ráquira is a vibrant town known for its colorful streets, artisan pottery, and lively local culture. Stroll through its charming squares and browse handcrafted ceramics, textiles, and souvenirs, each piece reflecting centuries of tradition. With quaint cafés, local eateries, and stunning mountain views, Ráquira offers a perfect mix of culture, romance, and picturesque charm. We bought so much pottery in Ráquira, we had to buy another bag on the way home! This is only accessible from Villa de Leyva.
Casa Terracota
The first time we visited Villa de Leyva, AJ and I visited Casa Terracota. This masterpiece of architecture was designed and executed by architect Octavio Mendoza Morales. The history of Casa Terracota dates back to the 90's when Morales undertook the ambitious project of building a house made entirely of terracotta. Morales, who is passionate about ecology and sustainable architecture wanted to demonstrate the possibilities offered by local materials and traditional building techniques. This is only accessible from Villa de Leyva.