Discover Cartagena’s Boutique Hotel in a Stunning 18th-Century Home with Private Beach Access

Tucked along Colombia’s north Caribbean coast is one of South America’s oldest colonial cities: Cartagena de Indias. Colonized by Spain in 1533 and liberated in 1821, the historic architecture remains well-preserved within its “Old City,” designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old City is surrounded by a nearly 2.5-mile wall built in the 1590s by Spain to protect the port city from attacks.

Today, charming squares, cobblestone streets, and colorful buildings await travelers who visit. This past spring, the Walled City welcomed a new boutique hotel in a Colonial-era building: Casa Pestagua. The historic 18th-century mansion underwent a $15-million renovation merging the city’s Colonial past with its contemporary present. Notably, the property is Colombia’s only Relais & Châteaux hotel.

As part of its update, the property boasts an upgraded lobby, an on-site restaurant, a bar, and a gym. “As a carefully renewed and restored hotel, the team put all our best efforts into reopening it,” Paula Andrea Chamorro, the director of sales and marketing, stated. “Its Moorish-inspired arches, double-height ceilings, unique rooms, attentive service, and luxury amenities make our hotel unique.”

The Rooms

• The hotel is located in the heart of the city, just a one-minute walk from Plaza de Santo Domingo.
• The vibe and aesthetic of the hotel seamlessly blend with the historic Old City while offering modern amenities.
• Excellent meals are available on-site at the restaurant, Ánima, featuring local and international dishes.

Casa Pestagua comes from the same owners as Hotel Casa San Agustin, another boutique hotel in the area with three Colonial-era homes merged to create 20 rooms and 11 suites, retaining original frescoes throughout the property.

Here’s everything you need to know about the boutique hotel.

Food and Drink

At the center of the hotel is a Moroccan-style open-air courtyard framed by arches and filled with greenery where the restaurant — Ánima, led by chef Heberto Eljach — is located. “I was primarily inspired by the ancestral traditions of Colombian cuisine, our gastronomic heritage, and the great biodiversity of Colombia,” Eljach noted.

A complimentary breakfast is included with every stay. Guests receive a bread basket with assorted treats and a fruit platter featuring seasonal items. Beverage options include coffee, water, orange juice, and green juice, alongside a selection of à la carte breakfast entrees, from arepas to acai bowls. I selected the arepa con huevo y carne after being told it was a favorite. It did not disappoint!

ÁNima’s approach to Colombian cuisine focuses on ancient cooking techniques, including preservation methods and the use of local products. “Each dish tells a story, and it’s essential for us to maintain our traditions in our cooking,” Eljach shared. A recommended must-try is the Ceviche Eljach, a medley of fish, octopus, shrimp, onion, local chili peppers, and pork rinds served with a roasted arepa.

For a delightful dinner experience, you could stroll over to Casa San Agustin to dine at Alma, also conceived by Eljach, which is regarded as one of the finest restaurants in the city.

Experiences and Amenities

My favorite experience at Casa Pestagua was a visit to Acasi, a private beach in Barú accessible only to guests of Casa Pestagua and Casa San Agustin. “For those looking to escape the noise, Acasi offers a perfect environment to unwind amidst lush mangroves and stunning white-sand beaches,” Chamorro remarked.

The visit includes a scenic, one-hour ride on a private boat followed by a delightful beach experience complete with cocktails served in coconuts, snacks, and loungers. For lunch, I enjoyed shrimp ceviche, paella, and a delicious chocolate cake, all while surrounded by tranquil surroundings.

Guests can choose from two food packages: a standard day trip or a VIP option. The standard package includes a speedboat, host, and transfers, serving shrimp ceviche, fruit, and plantain chips. The VIP option features specialties like lobster empanadas. Prices vary accordingly.

Arriving in October, six bungalows will be available at the private beach for overnight stays, offering ocean views and access to massage areas, a bar, a restaurant, and a pool.

The concierge can also assist with local activities, including walking tours, coffee tastings, and cooking classes. I particularly enjoyed a coffee experience at Café San Alberto, discovering Colombia’s rich coffee culture and even trying a unique coffee mocktail.

During a walking tour with local operator Galavanta, our knowledgeable guide, Javier, shared insights about the city’s colonial history and the significance of its ornate door knockers.

Casa Pestagua’s Aurum Spa

Guests of Casa Pestagua can enjoy spa treatments at Aurum Spa, located at Casa San Agustin. “Aurum Spa differs from other spas in Cartagena due to its official Hammam experience offered as it’s originally performed in Marrakesh,” Chamorro described.

During my spa journey, I indulged in a full body massage that alleviated my travel fatigue. Following the treatment, I retreated to a relaxation room, gradually returning to reality.

The Location

Casa Pestagua is conveniently located just four miles, or a 15-minute drive from Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG). The hotel can arrange airport transfers for a seamless journey.

Within Cartagena’s old town, the property is within walking distance to notable sites. For instance, Las Bóvedas is a 13-minute walk, and Plaza de Santo Domingo, home to the iconic Fernando Botero sculpture, is just around the corner. Santuario de San Pedro Claver is also a mere four minutes away, commemorating a missionary who advocated for slaves’ rights. The trendy Getsemaní neighborhood can be reached in a 20-minute walk or a quick 10-minute drive.

Chamorro emphasized the hotel’s prime location: “It’s ideal not only because of the city’s rich history and diversity but also due to how easily navigable the area is, ensuring you’ll never be far from the property.”

Accessibility and Sustainability

Although Cartagena’s elevation is flat, visitors should be aware that many streets and sidewalks in the area are cobblestone, which could pose challenges for individuals with limited mobility.

Casa Pestagua promotes sustainability by encouraging guests to reuse sheets and towels instead of requesting fresh ones daily. The property also recycles plastic packaging, partnering with a recycling plant that supports children with cancer and other illnesses.

At the private beach, efforts have been made to maintain an undeveloped environment. Mangroves were planted, and the path to the beach is crafted from washed-up coral rather than pavement.

Casa Pestagua’s nightly room rates, which include breakfast, begin at $550. Experience this unique boutique hotel for yourself!