Elcielo Hotel Luxury Medellin
Medellin, Colombia
Astorga
Vibe
A multi-story vertical garden rises through the core, beneath an open rooftop where city views meet cocktail lounge energy.
“Sensory culinary atelier”
A central vertical atrium garden anchors the property beneath a suspended glass-bottom rooftop pool.
Twenty-eight suites feature dedicated guest ambassadors, Italian soaking tubs, and personalized tasting menu arrangements.
Colombian biodiversity inspires the flagship sensory tasting menu alongside regionally crafted hardwood finishes throughout.
In Astorga within El Poblado, steps from Parque Poblado and the dining along Parque Lleras.
“The interior is perhaps even more dramatic, oriented around a verdant atrium garden. Upstairs, the 28 suites are ultra-modern and ultra-tasteful.”
Rooms
Suites pair warm Colombian hardwood paneling with classic travertine bathrooms, while upper categories feature freestanding Italian soaking tubs.
“Also in El Poblado is the Elcielo Hotel, opened in 2021 by Juan Manuel Barrientos (“Juanma”), who employed demobilized guerilla fighters and paramilitaries.”
Wellness
A glass-bottom pool floats above the central atrium, complemented by a Turkish steam bath, jacuzzi, and rooftop gym.
Backstory
Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos expanded his avant-garde hospitality vision to his hometown in 2021, creating a design-forward boutique retreat.
Eat & drink
The flagship restaurant serves an 18-course sensory journey, complemented by casual dining at El Bistró and rooftop drinks at La Sirena.
The neighborhood
Set in tranquil Astorga within El Poblado, the hotel sits a quick walk from the nightlife and cafes around Parque Lleras.
The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.