Discover the captivating colonial heritage and natural splendor of Colombia’s Antioquia region on this immersive two-day adventure. Traversing the iconic Puente de Occidente, travelers will explore the charming, cobblestoned streets of Santa Fé de Antioquia, a settlement founded in 1541. Unwind at the serene River House, indulge in a wine tour at Viña Sicilia, and savor hearty breakfasts and refreshing hikes. This experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the local culture and flavors, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Colombia’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
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Key Points
- Explore the colonial heritage and natural beauty of Medellín, Colombia over a 2-day tour, including visits to Puente de Occidente and Santa Fé de Antioquia.
- Experience a culture at the River House, with amenities like a pool and nearby river, showcasing the region’s authentic charm.
- Discover the historical village of Olaya, founded in 1773, and enjoy refreshing local fruit juices while connecting with the local culture.
- Participate in a wine tour at Viña Sicilia, providing insight into the region’s winemaking heritage and opportunity to savor local flavors.
- Enjoy customizable transportation and private tour options to cater to individual or group preferences for a personalized experience.
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Overview of the Tour
The River House Experience & Santa Fe de Antioquia Tour is a 2-day exploration that begins in Medellín, Colombia, offering travelers an opportunity to discover the region’s colonial heritage, natural beauty, and local culture.
The tour includes visiting the Puente de Occidente, a late 19th-century engineering marvel over the Cauca River, and the charming colonial town of Santa Fé de Antioquia.
Guests will also have the chance to relax at the River House, explore the nearby historical village of Olaya, and participate in a wine tour at Viña Sicilia.
Comfortable transportation, customizable pickup points, and a private tour option make this experience versatile and convenient for travelers.
Highlights of Day 1
Travelers begin their River House Experience & Santa Fe de Antioquia Tour by crossing the Puente de Occidente, a late 19th-century engineering marvel spanning the Cauca River.
They then explore the colonial town of Santa Fe de Antioquia, founded in 1541, admiring its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and historical sites.
The journey continues to the historical village of Olaya, established in 1773, where they enjoy a local fruit juice before heading to the River House for the night.
This full-day itinerary immerses guests in Colombia’s rich history and countryside, providing a well-rounded introduction to the region’s cultural heritage.
Exploring Santa Fe De Antioquia
After crossing the iconic Puente de Occidente, guests explore the captivating colonial town of Santa Fe de Antioquia, founded over 450 years ago.
They stroll along the cobblestone streets, admiring the whitewashed buildings and historical sites that transport them back in time.
The town’s charming plaza, surrounded by churches and public buildings, provides a glimpse into Colombia’s rich heritage.
Visitors can wander through the quaint neighborhoods, stopping to admire the intricate architecture and interact with the friendly locals.
The tranquil atmosphere and well-preserved colonial ambiance make Santa Fe de Antioquia a highlight of the River House Experience, allowing guests to enjoy the country’s cultural history.
Visiting the Historical Village
Departing from the colonial charm of Santa Fe de Antioquia, the tour transports guests to the historical village of Olaya, established in 1773.
Here, travelers can enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the town’s rich heritage. They’ll savor refreshing fruit juices while wandering the quaint streets, taking in the sights and sounds of everyday life.
The highlight of the visit is the short hike to the nearby river, where travelers can relax and take in the stunning natural surroundings.
This immersive experience offers a glimpse into Colombia’s countryside, allowing guests to connect with the local culture and appreciate the country’s enduring traditions.
Relaxation at the River House
At the River House, guests can unwind and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. They’ll start the day with a hearty breakfast before enjoying the inviting pool and a short hike to the nearby river.
The peaceful surroundings offer the perfect setting for travelers to recharge and enjoy the beauty of Colombia’s countryside. After a refreshing dip in the pool, guests can venture out on a leisurely walk along the river, taking in the stunning natural scenery.
The River House provides a serene retreat from the bustle of the city, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and experience the authentic charm of the region.
Wine Tour at Viña Sicilia
Travelers can participate in a wine tour at the nearby Viña Sicilia, where they’ll learn about the local wine production and have the opportunity to sample the region’s finest vintages.
The tour lasts around two hours and provides a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. Guests will explore the vineyards, see the fermentation tanks, and then retire to the tasting room to sample a selection of the winery’s products.
The experience offers a chance to take in the rich winemaking heritage of the area and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of viticulture.
It’s a delightful addition to the River House experience, allowing visitors to savor the local flavors of Colombia’s countryside.
Transportation and Customization
The tour offers comfortable SUV transportation with air conditioning, allowing guests to reach the destinations in a relaxed and convenient manner.
Pickup points can be customized to suit the travelers’ needs, providing a personalized experience from the start.
Further, the private tour option enables guests to modify the itinerary to better align with their interests and preferences.
This flexibility ensures that the tour can be tailored to each individual’s or group’s preferences, allowing for a truly unique and memorable experience.
Whether you’re seeking a more structured itinerary or looking to explore at your own pace, the transportation and customization options cater to a wide range of needs and preferences.
Additional Tour Information
Accessibility for the tour is limited, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are permitted with infants required to sit on laps.
The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
The tour is available year-round, operating Monday through Sunday from 9 AM to 11 PM, with upcoming dates scheduled from September 18, 2023, to August 25, 2025.
Guests have provided positive feedback, highlighting the tour’s family-friendly nature, opportunities for culture, and unique experiences like relaxation at the River House and wine tasting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the River House?
The best time to visit the River House depends on personal preferences, but the warm, dry season from December to March typically offers the most pleasant weather and enjoyable outdoor activities.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for the Tour?
The River House Experience tour does not have a minimum group size requirement. Travelers can book the private tour and customize the itinerary to their preferences, regardless of the group size.
Can We Extend the Tour Beyond the 2-Day Itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be extended beyond the standard 2-day itinerary. The tour provider offers customization options, allowing travelers to modify the itinerary to meet their specific needs and preferences for longer stays.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and admission to Viña Sicilia. However, there may be additional fees or costs not explicitly mentioned, such as personal expenses or optional activities not included in the package.
Is There an Option to Book the Tour in Other Languages Besides English?
The tour provider offers the option to book the tour in languages besides English, such as Spanish, French, or German, to accommodate guests from diverse backgrounds and improve their overall experience. Travelers can inquire about language options when making their booking.
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Recap
The River House Experience & Santa Fé de Antioquia tour offers a captivating exploration of Colombia’s colonial heritage and natural beauty.
Guests can traverse the iconic Puente de Occidente, wander through the charming streets of Santa Fé de Antioquia, and unwind at the serene River House.
The tour also includes a wine tasting at Viña Sicilia, allowing visitors to enjoy the local culture and flavors.