Itinerary:
Colombia Cycling Holiday

Medellin to Bogota

Day 1: Medellin

redspokes Colombia cycle tour begins in Medellin. Flights usually depart from Europe in the morning, arriving in the early evening (same day) and are available at around £950 - £1,100. You'll be arriving in Colombia at an altitude of approximately 1500m. You will be met at the airport and transferred to our joining hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 2: Medellin

On Sundays from 8am until 2pm certain main streets of Bogotá, Cali, Medellín and other municipalities are closed to cars and designated as 'ciclovia': available for the exclusive use of runners, skaters, and bicyclists. At the same time, stages are set up in city parks for music, yoga and other recreational events. This morning we will sort our bikes out in good time then join the locals in a bike ride around the city.

This afternoon we take a guided city tour, including a cable car ride over the barrios. Medellin the 'city of eternal Spring' is set in the narrow Aburrá valley surrounded by dramatic mountains. The city's towering buildings reach for the skies. Now known for textiles and flower exports the city has had a colourful past. It is well set up for visitors to explore with a modern metro. Attractions include art galleries, museums, churches, beautiful open spaces and a vibrant night life.

Accommodation: Hotel (B)

Day 3: Medellin to Santa Fe De Antioquia

Now we've had time to sight see and acclimatise, our cycling in Colombia begins. Colombia is a terrain ideally suited to cyclists who love hills and we set off on the bikes cycling uphill for the first 15km. The rest of our day will be a downhill journey all the way to Santa Fe De Antioquia as we drop to 509m over a distance of approximately 46km. Santa Fe De Antioquia, a former gold mining town, is the capital of Antioquia within the Central Cordillera of the Andes; the town is built along the banks of the Rio Cauca.

The town's narrow streets are characterised by colonial architecture: the whitewashed buildings are often built around courtyards with intricately carved woodwork framing the windows and doorways. There are artisan crafts and jewellery on sale and the local specialty 'pulpo de tamarindo'; a sweet/sour confectionery made from locally grown tamarind.

Cycling Distance: 70km (44miles)
Total Climb: 1,010m (3,280ft)
Total Descent: 2,050m (6725ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)

Day 4: Santa Fe De Antioquia to La Pintada

 Today, we'll set out on a journey that combines rolling hills with flat stretches along well-maintained roads. The route offers stunning views of the Cauca River Valley and lush coffee plantations. This ride perfectly blends physical challenge with natural beauty, making it an ideal adventure for experienced cyclists seeking both exertion and scenic splendor.

Cycling Distance: 120km (75 miles)
Total Climb: 1,195m (3,920ft)
Total Descent: 1,165m (3,822ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L) 

 Day 5: La Pintada to Aguadas

We continue cycling along mountain ridges through the lush green mountains that characterise the Colombian countryside. The first 12km of today's route are a relatively flat stretch of road. We then begin riding a steady upward climb for the next 15km followed by a short 2km drop before we climb again along the road that takes us to Aguadas. Set on the edge of the Caldas Mountains at the Northern end of the Caldas region, Aguadas is a 19th C town known as the 'city of mists'. It is a typical traditional village, preserving the customs of the Paisa people in the landscape, architecture and folklore. You will receive a traditional warm welcome.

Cycling Distance: 44km (27 miles)
Total Climb: 1,850m (6,102ft)
Total Descent: 280m (918ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)

Day 6: Aguadas to Salamina

Continuing south to Salamina we have a series of ascents and descents today, dropping downhill out of Aguadas for the first 12 km. Then it’s a fairly  steep uphill 8km followed by a 15km downhill. We have a final climb up to Salamina of 15km. We need to take care along this rolling, winding road as it snakes towards Salamina.

Salamina, with its well-preserved historical center and traditional Colombian atmosphere, serves as a rewarding destination. The town's iconic red and white balconies add a unique touch to its charm. You can explore it's cobbled streets, visit local coffee shops, and immerse yourself  in the friendly ambiance of this quaint Colombian town.

Cycling Distance: 49km (30 miles)
Total Climb: 1,190m (3,904ft)
Total Descent: 1,610m (5,282ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)

Day 7: Salamina - Rest Day

We have a day off the bikes on the tour today to recover from the challenges of our journey so far. Salamina is perched high up in the mountains. The town's European architectural influences include an English designed cathedral and a Parisian fountain in the plaza. Salamina's museum, the Casa Cultura, houses a collection of photographs and other local artefacts. Salamina is known as the "city of light" because it has produced many of Caldas' poets, musicians, actors and writers. It is also known as "Mother of Nations" because it was one of the centres from which the founders and first settlers of Neira, Aranzazu, Manizales, Santa Rosa de Cabal, Pereira and Armenia migrated. Salamina's economy is based on coffee, livestock and dairy.

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 8: Salamina to Manizales

We tackle another series of up and down stretches of road today first cycling 52km to Neira. After a brief incline out of Salamina we drop for 9km, before a 12km ride uphill to the highest point of the day at over 2000m. We then drop down to 1,400m over the next 12km. Then it's 8km up over the next peak and down before the final uphill cycle, broken by a brief drop, before the last 10km steep stretch to Neira. Neira is a quiet rural town with views of the curving mountains as far as the eye can see, thick forestation and the odd dwelling dotted here and there. There are many cattle ranches in the surrounding area. It is characterised by nostalgic guadua bamboo architecture. Guadua groves have been growing in Colombia for centuries, the wood is a natural construction resource used in a variety of buildings and bridges and known as 'vegetable steel'.

We ride on another undulating 28km to reach Manizales. Attractions include the gold museum and the Cathedral which is the third tallest in Latin America, at 113 meters. Manizales, the principal city of the Caldas region, is known as the 'city of the open door' because of its friendly inhabitants. The area enjoys great climactic diversity with 8 microclimates. 

Cycling Distance: 76km (47miles)
Total Climb: 2,190m (7,653ft)
Total Descent: 1,880m (6,167ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)

Day 9: Manizales to Padua

Cycling from Manizales to Padua via the Altro de Letras in promises a thrilling journey through the heart of the Andes. The Altro de Letras, renowned for being one of the world's highest paved roads, presents cyclists with a formidable challenge as they navigate ascents and exhilarating descents amidst the stunning mountainous landscapes. Peddaling through this scenic route, cyclists are treated to breathtaking vistas of cloud-kissed peaks, deep valleys, and lush greenery. The road's twists and turns demand both physical stamina and cycling finesse, offering a truly immersive experience for enthusiasts seeking a combination of adventure and natural beauty. The Altro de Letras cycling route is sure to leave cyclists with a profound sense of accomplishment and a collection of indelible memories from the Colombian Andes.

Cycling Distance: 75km (46miles)
Total Climb: 2,290m (7,513ft)
Total Descent: 2,340m (7,677.ft)
Accommodation: Basic - truck stop (B,L)

Day 10: Padua to Victoria

Todays cycling ride, promises not only a scenic adventure but also a unique immersion into the renowned coffee region. As cyclists pedal through the picturesque landscapes, they traverse the heart of Colombia's coffee country, where rolling hills are adorned with lush coffee plantations. The aroma of freshly grown coffee beans fills the air, providing a sensory experience unique to this region.

The undulating roads reveal the beauty of the Colombian countryside, with charming rural villages and vibrant greenery along the way. Arriving in Victoria, the final destination, adds an extra layer to the tour as cyclists can explore the town's colonial architecture, engage with local coffee culture, and witness firsthand the historical significance of coffee in shaping the identity of this hidden gem in the heart of Caldas.

Cycling Distance: 81km (50miles)
Total Climb: 1,410m (4,625ft)
Total Descent: 2,725m (8,940ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)

Day 11: Victoria to Honda

Our route today is easier compared to the previous days and won't throw too many tough challenges our way, giving us a chance to enjoy the ride

As we roll into Honda, we'll have more time on our hands to explore the town and appreciate its laid-back charm. The hotel we'll be staying at is a gem – it comes with a swimming pool, offering a perfect opportunity to unwind and cool off after the ride.

Honda is a small town with a quaint feel. The streets have this old-style charm with cobblestones, giving it a unique character. It's not a bustling city, but more
of a laid-back spot. You'll find it close to the Magdalena River, adding a scenic touch. Honda has a relaxed vibe, making it a nice place to wander around and
soak in the local atmosphere. Check out the markets for some interesting stuff, and enjoy the simplicity and history that make Honda an interesting stop in
Colombia.

Cycling Distance: 34km (21 miles)
Total Climb: 110m (360ft)
Total Descent: 620m (2,034ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)

Day 12: Honda  to Mariquita 

Our final cycling day takes you through the lush, rolling hills of the Andean region,  As you pedal along, you'll be treated to panoramic views of verdant valleys and quaint villages, making every mile of the ride a rewarding experience.

Upon reaching Mariquita, you’ll find a welcoming retreat at Hotel Boutique San Rafael. This charming hotel offers a blend of comfort and luxury, perfect for unwinding after a day on the bike. The accommodation is designed to provide a restful stay, with spacious rooms that feature modern amenities and a relaxing atmosphere. The hotel's swimming pool is ideal for cooling off and enjoying a leisurely swim, while the jacuzzi offers a perfect spot for soothing tired muscles.

Cycling Distance: 96km (60 miles)
Total Climb: 840m (2,755ft)
Total Descent: 560m (1,837ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)

Day 13: Mariquita to Bogota 

This morning with the bikes packed up, we transfer to Bogota. Once we've checked into our hotel you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the highlights of Colombia's popular, vibrant capital city. There's so much to choose from, with numerous art galleries and museums, the botanical garden José Celestino Mutis, La Quinta de Bolivar, the national observatory, the planetarium, and La Candelaria (the historical district of the city). The city has numerous green parks and a short distance away is the salt cathedral. For those wishing to extend their stay we can assist with arranging extra nights for you.

Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)

Day 14: Bogotá / Home

The redspokes Medellin to Bogota cycle tour officially ends this morning. We will arrange a free transfer from the hotel to the airport for your international flight home.

(B)