At the northernmost point of Colombia's eje cafetero, or coffee axis, as the sun sets on the horizon, it becomes clear why the poet once called Manizales “the sunset factory”. The city of Caldas stands proudly in the midst of mountains, scenic roads, and futuristic Interactive Centers, where tradition and innovation meet.

The city and its surrounds were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011 due to their unique geographic features. Coffee and rolling hills are only a small part of what the city has to offer: within an hour's drive, you can sample cosmopolitan cuisine or visit biodiverse nature reserves. Join us on this journey through Manizales, Colombia.

TERMALES DEL RUIZ

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Manizales, accommodations with proximity to nature are a big draw. Nestled in a stunning landscape on the outskirts of Los Nevados National Park, this hot springs resort gives off that classic alpine lodge feel. Manizales has about 5 hot springs near the city, but this is by far the best place to immerse yourself in the experience; with meals served in a fire-heated dining room, 2 thermal pools and a bird refuge that attracts more than 17 species of hummingbirds, Termales del Ruiz is an ideal weekend getaway. hoteltermalesdelruiz.com

VIGA VIEJA

Located in Vereda San Peregrino, just 15 minutes from the city, are the rustic luxury accommodations of Viga Vieja. Preserving the style of the colonial houses of the area, the place was restored at the beginning of the century using recycled materials from demolished houses of Manizales’ historical center and following sustainable methods.

The layout of the site was designed so that its natural surroundings become its focal point, while the subtle style of the building blends in seamlessly. Although this is not a wellness center, you can request spa treatments, yoga sessions, reiki therapy or simply meditate while listening to the birds and swimming in the natural pool. en.vigaviejamanizales.com

MANIZALES CATHEDRAL

The 25,833-square-meter Gothic cathedral overlooks the city center. The structure of this basilica dates back to 1927, when French architect Julien Auguste Polti was commissioned to rebuild it after three different fires burned most of the first foundations. The construction took 11 years to complete, and was finally built with reinforced concrete and stained glass. Its main tower is 106 meters high, making it the tallest church tower in the country.

Visitors can climb a seemingly endless spiral staircase to the top for magnificent views of the city, but only as part of a guided tour that lasts about 75 minutes. This part of the building is called the Polish Corridor, a platform 341 feet above the ground. The name commemorates the tragic events that triggered World War II in 1939, when Adolf Hitler invaded Poland just as construction of the building was being completed. Part of the circuit is a bit scary, so if you don't like heights you can take the elevator to the second floor and have a coffee with a view at the Tazzioli café.

LA SUIZA

You can't leave Manizales without having a coffee at this quaint bakery located in the heart of the city. In addition to baked goods, the place serves tasty breakfasts and light lunches, including pastas, gourmet sandwiches, wraps and, of course, coffee drinks. Don't forget to try acordeones, their signature pastry, covered in sugar and chocolate and filled with cream and blackberry jelly. lasuiza.com.co

LA BEAUTIFUL

Unusual, and now inclusive, food. The owners of this one-of-a-kind private dining experience know how to keep a secret. A house in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by stunning mountain peaks, is where the magic happens, but the exact location will only be revealed on the day of your reservation.

The menu is also a mystery until the dishes arrive, but guests are welcome to inform staff of any allergies or dietary requirements in the registration form. In addition to creating a unique food experience, Chef Jorge Jiménez has also launched a campaign to promote inclusion, incorporating underrepresented groups into his kitchen and staff. labeautiful.co

INMORALE

When it comes to fashion, the city may have couture designers and boutiques, but this Manizales-based slow fashion factory is a true hidden gem. Now that established brands and other key players feel the need to change the way clothing is produced, purchased and consumed, this trend has become an imperative shift in the industry's mindset.

Disruptive Instagram influencer @larubiainmoral ventured into this business with a thrift store, but more than a year ago she introduced a line of custom-made loungewear. Sweatshirts and pants that can be customized with any of her famous quotes, such as El arte de la desobediencia— “The art of disobedience".” inmorale.myshopify.com

Hacienda Venecia

Coffee connoisseurs will appreciate this addition to the list. Hacienda Venecia is a working coffee farm with over 100 years of tradition. Since 2016, they open their doors every day to share their vast knowledge in an immersive coffee experience: "The life of a coffee bean from seed to cup".

Feel free to explore the fields, collect some coffee cherries, touch the half-dried washed coffee, and smell and sample the freshly roasted beans. And if a full day is not enough for you, the farm also offers a variety of accommodations that suit all tastes and budgets. haciendavenecia.com