THE PERFECT BASE TO EXPLORE BARICHARA
The house of a former President, Casa del Presidente is the perfect base for exploring the historic town of Barichara, a place frozen in time but rich in culture and surrounded by beautiful hills and valleys. Considered by many to be the most beautiful town in Colombia, the remoteness of Barichara has helped preserve its stunning colonial architecture, quiet local life and rich culture. The town literally translates as ‘place of rest’ and its cobblestone streets, white façades and clay walls certainly give it a calming feel.
Seven hours from Bogotá or three hours from Bucaramanga, Barichara has an enviable location. It’s only at a short distance from natural wonders like the Chicamocha canyon, as well as breathtaking waterfalls, pristine rivers and ancient indigenous trails. Casa del Presidente was home to former president Belisario Betancur. He was known for his love of culture and he turned the villa into a bastion of the beautiful arts and crafts of Barichara, a legacy that continues to this day. The house has been beautifully preserved and honours the history, tradition and beauty of the town, which was declared a national monument in 1978.
The villa has five rooms, each with en suite and decorated with artwork from the local area. Casa del Presidente can be booked independently or you can hire the entire property for yourself and have our team of local guides and staff look after you for a truly personalised experienced. Guests can relax in one of the properties many inviting spaces, including its spacious living room, outdoor terrace surrounded by bougainvilleas or even in the president’s office. There is also an outdoor swimming pool and dining space, as well as spacious indoor dining room.
During your stay at Casa del Presidente our team of local guides are on hand to show you the best of the area. For those looking for a more active stay, biking, paragliding and zip-lining can all be organised. It’s also possible to raft on the nearby Fonce river or explore some of the ancient trails in the surrounding hills, stopping for a delicious picnic lunch en route. A less adrenaline filled stay could include a street food tour of the city, followed by an afternoon visiting different artists’ workshops in the town. Yoga lessons can be organised, healthy cookery classes or a visit to an organic coffee farm. There really is so much to see in the area, guests will never be bored. In the evening you can enjoy a delicious BBQ, relax around the fire-pit or watch a movie in the outdoor movie theatre. For those looking to see an authentic glimpse of Colombia, Barichara really is a must. A place where traditions remain alive, the area offers something to suit all travellers and truly is a hidden gem.
Casa Del Presidente
Casa Del Presidente, at a glance
- House of former Colombian President, Belisario Betancur
- Beautiful colonial architecture and decoration
- Just 5 rooms and ideal for groups
- Personalised service with bespoke activity programs on request
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Indoor and outdoor dining areas
For leisure and pleasure
- Explore the town of Barichara, famous for it’s historic architecture and rich culture
- Visit local artists studios
- Discover delicious organic coffee at a nearby coffee plantation
- White-water rafting, zip-lining, mountain biking and hiking
- Street food tours of the town
