Nestled in the Andes of Colombia, Villa de Leyva is a colonial town that seems frozen in time. Famous for its whitewashed buildings and cobblestone streets, it draws visitors with its old-world charm. But beyond the well-known Plaza Mayor and fossil museum lies a more intimate, authentic experience waiting to be discovered.
1. Pozo de la Vieja: A Natural Spring with a Local Legend
Tucked away in the countryside just 10 minutes from town, Pozo de la Vieja (The Old Woman’s Well) is a serene natural spring surrounded by lush vegetation. According to local folklore, an old woman discovered the spring while searching for medicinal herbs. Today, it’s a peaceful retreat where you can cool off, listen to birdsong, and take a meditative moment away from the crowds.
2. Cascada La Periquera: A Multi-Level Waterfall Adventure
About 20 minutes from Villa de Leyva, La Periquera is a series of cascading waterfalls hidden in a forested area. Unlike the more touristy waterfalls, this gem is ideal for adventurous souls. You can hike between different levels, bathe in the crystal-clear pools, and even zipline across the canopy. Don’t forget your hiking shoes and a picnic!
3. Museo del Carmen: Quiet Art and Spirituality
While many visitors flock to the Fossil Museum or Casa Terracota, the Museo del Carmen is often overlooked. Housed in a 17th-century Carmelite convent, this museum features religious art, colonial-era relics, and peaceful gardens that exude tranquility. It’s a perfect place to learn about the spiritual side of Colombia’s history.
4. The Desert of La Candelaria: A Mini Tatacoa
Most people associate deserts with La Guajira or Tatacoa, but few realize there’s a semi-arid zone near Villa de Leyva. The Desierto de La Candelaria offers a unique mix of cacti, rocky terrain, and golden hues — ideal for sunrise or sunset photography. You can explore it on horseback or by foot for a more immersive experience.
5. Claustro San Agustín: A Historical Haven Turned Boutique Stay
One of Villa de Leyva’s lesser-known historic buildings is the Claustro San Agustín, a former Augustinian monastery now converted into a boutique hotel. Even if you’re not staying overnight, visiting the courtyard café or attending a cultural event here gives you access to its baroque architecture and quiet charm.
6. The Blue Ponds (Pozos Azules): Lesser-Visited Corners
Yes, Pozos Azules are popular — but only the main pools are usually visited. Few people wander farther to the more secluded blue ponds scattered throughout the area. These hidden corners offer solitude, surreal blue hues, and stunning reflections of the surrounding hills — without the Instagram crowd.
7. Capilla del Santo Ecce Homo: A Secret Chapel in the Mountains
Roughly 40 minutes from Villa de Leyva, this quiet 17th-century chapel was once a Dominican monastery. Built with local stones that contain fossils, Capilla del Santo Ecce Homo combines nature, religion, and history. Surrounded by a desert-like landscape, it’s an ideal half-day trip for those seeking solitude and reflection.
8. Casa de Barro: The Artist’s Home You Didn’t Expect
While Casa Terracota gets the spotlight, nearby Casa de Barro is its quirky cousin. It’s a living, breathing art project created by a local ceramic artist who still resides there. Visitors are welcomed with open arms, homemade pottery, and stories that blend local folklore with personal history.
9. Local Cheese Farms in Sáchica
Just a short drive from Villa de Leyva, the town of Sáchica is home to several small cheese farms offering tours and tastings. These aren’t commercial operations — they’re family-run farms where cows are milked by hand, and cheeses are made the traditional way. Sample curd cheese with guava paste for an authentic Colombian treat.
10. The Secret Hike to Peña de la Virgen
Want to escape into nature without the crowds? Try hiking to Peña de la Virgen, a rock formation with a small religious altar at the top. The trail starts behind the town and winds through eucalyptus trees and farmland. It’s a moderately difficult hike, but the panoramic view of Villa de Leyva and the spiritual silence at the summit make it worth every step.
Conclusion: Go Beyond the Guidebooks
Villa de Leyva is more than a postcard-perfect town — it’s a living, breathing cultural gem. While tourists gather around the Plaza Mayor or the giant clay house, the true magic of this region lies in its quiet corners, local legends, and authentic experiences.
By stepping off the beaten path, you’ll not only enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices — you’ll also connect more deeply with Colombia’s rich culture, landscapes, and people. So next time you’re in Villa de Leyva, skip the mainstream and embrace the hidden gems that make this place unforgettable.
FAQs
1. What’s the best way to get to Villa de Leyva?
You can reach Villa de Leyva by bus or car from Bogotá in around 3.5 to 4 hours. Buses depart frequently from Bogotá’s Terminal de Transporte.
2. Is Villa de Leyva safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Villa de Leyva is considered one of Colombia’s safest towns. Just take normal precautions, especially when hiking or exploring less touristy areas.
3. When is the best time to visit Villa de Leyva?
Dry season (December to March and July to August) offers the best weather for exploring. However, festivals like the Kite Festival in August add a unique cultural experience.
4. Are the hidden gems suitable for families with kids?
Most of them are! Waterfalls, the blue ponds, and cheese farms are kid-friendly. Just check trail difficulty for hikes like Peña de la Virgen.
5. Can I explore these places without a guide?
Yes, most hidden gems are accessible without a guide, though having one can enhance your experience, especially when learning about local stories and history.
