Medellin

Known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ due to its temperate weather, Medellin is embraced by green Andean valleys. Just like a spring flower, the city has emerged from the winter of its difficult past as one of the most exciting and forward-thinking cities in South America. The dark days of Pablo Escobar and his cartels have long gone, leaving a city energised with creative innovation that funds new galleries and literary festivals championing the next generation of South American voices. It’s worth the two-hour drive from the city to visit Guatape with its colourful houses and incredible views of the lakes and mountains from the top of the Penol rock.