Colonial charm, plunge pools, and one of my all-time favorite stays

For travelers who want to be immersed in Cartagena’s charm while staying somewhere serene, stylish, and distinctly local.

The moment I stepped into Casa San Agustín’s leafy courtyard, I knew. This would be one of my all-time favorites. There’s a quiet magic here. historic bones, elegant styling, and a calm that’s rare in the middle of a vibrant city. The building is colonial, the design thoughtful, the welcome warm.

Rooms & Style

We stayed in the Prestige Suite, two king beds on two separate floors, with a lovely view of Cartagena’s rooftops. Ideal for two couples traveling together or a family (like ours) wanting to stretch out. During my site visit, I peeked into several other rooms, each one unique. Some have plunge pools, many feature inner terraces framed by tropical greenery, and all carry that same airy, understated elegance.

Personal Take

What stood out most? The feeling of being a guest in someone’s exquisite home. The service was personal and polished. The design felt rooted in place. Every detail, from the books in the library to the calm of the courtyard, seemed to whisper: slow down, you’re in good hands. And breakfast in the courtyard? A dreamy start to the day with fresh juice, warm breads, and the breeze just drifting in.

Location

This is one of the best addresses in Cartagena. Set inside the walled city, you’re steps from the color, history, and music that make the city so magnetic. But walk back through the hotel doors, and you’re in a cocoon of calm. After 5pm, many of the surrounding streets close to traffic, turning the neighborhood into a walkable hideaway.

What You’ll Find Here

A glowing courtyard pool beneath an ancient aqueduct
Daily tea and coffee in the library (5–6pm)
Alma, the hotel’s restaurant, elegant, delicious, and occasionally set to live music
Aurum Spa
A walk-everywhere location in Cartagena’s historic core
No gym on-site, but guests have access to the facilities at sister property Casa Pestagua (another gem).

Dining at Alma

Alma is one of the city’s best restaurants. The menu blends land and sea, with Colombian flavors given a modern twist. Dinner here is worth lingering over (just don’t expect it to be rushed), and breakfast is equally memorable, fresh, flavorful, and served in the sun-dappled courtyard.

Good to Know

The hotel’s private beach club, Acasí, offers the best of both worlds, an escape to white sands and turquoise water, just a short boat ride away. Available as a day trip or overnight, with transfers arranged by the hotel.

Casa San Agustín is a great year-round option. While December–January is high season, we visited in July and found it absolutely lovely.

Booking with Me

This is a special stay, and I’ll help you make the most of it. I’ll match you with the right room (some have plunge pools, others terraces), arrange thoughtful extras, and ensure your arrival is seamless.

Book with me and you’ll also receive:

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast for two, served in Alma
$100 hotel credit to use during your stay
Early check-in and late check-out, when available

Prefer a more resort-style property in Cartagena? I’ve got you covered there too.

Want to see how it pairs with the beach?
👉 Read my Sofitel Barú Calablanca spotlight
👉 Explore our full Cartagena & Barú trip

Casa San Agustín in Cartagena, Colombia