Aristocratic colonial cloister
Moorish arches and coral stone arcades frame an open garden courtyard where royal palms shade a central swimming pool.
“Casa San Agustín and Casa Pestagua are the premier addresses: They have sprawling rooms, four-poster beds, and period furnishings, plus impeccable service.”
Where it shines
Remarkable
Double-height beamed ceilings and Moorish stone arches enclose a palm-shaded courtyard pool.
Remarkable
Staff escort luggage across cobblestones and deliver warm breakfasts beneath courtyard palms.
Remarkable
An eighteenth-century palace built for the Count of Pestagua, restored with coral stone arcades.
What they say
Two Michelin Keys
Michelin
Also in AFAR.
The air of colonial elegance remains, from the peaceful courtyards to the sunny and spacious rooms, but a few centuries on, the ostentation isn’t nearly so much in evidence.
In a lively part of town
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Set on Calle Santo Domingo, the mansion is steps from lively colonial plazas, ancient stone ramparts, and evening street performers.
The rooms
Rooms feature double-height beamed ceilings, four-poster beds, rattan furnishings, and freestanding baths looking out toward the quiet courtyard.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Turquoise tiles line the unheated outdoor pool, bordered by terracotta brick paving, sun loungers, and towering palms.
The gym and rooftop
An indoor fitness room looks onto the garden, and a private rooftop terrace hides a hydromassage tub.
AniMare Restaurant
Chef Heberto Eljach prepares coastal Colombian seafood and ceviches beneath Moorish stone arches and courtyard parasols.
At the table
AniMare Bar serves tropical fruit cocktails and aged rums beneath dark-wood ceiling beams and terracotta walls.
How it began
Built in the eighteenth century as the palace of the Count of Pestagua, the aristocratic residence was comprehensively restored in 2023.
Good to know
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Casa Pestagua
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.