The old town of Cartagena, Columbia, within the old city walls, can be a bit overwhelming at times. The festive music playing from local bars and restaurants, the ever-present vendors, and the heat and humidity of Cartagena recommend finding a peaceful retreat. Hotel Casa la Factoria is just the place.
Location
Hotel Casa La Factoria Cartagena by Faranda Boutique is a luxurious property located in the heart of Cartagena, Colombia. It is in the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This boutique hotel blends colonial charm with modern comfort, making it a perfect destination for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture and history of Cartagena. The hotel is located one block north of Plaza de Santo Domingo. It is within walking distance of all parts of the historic center and also of the colorful Getsemani neighborhood.
The old city is a quick taxi or Uber ride from the international airport in the nearby Crespo neighborhood.
Hotel Lobby
Public Spaces
As you walk into the hotel, there is a small lobby on your left. Through the lobby, Guests can also enjoy cocktails at the hotel’s lounge bar, which offers a relaxed atmosphere.
Candelaria Restaurant
On the right of the entrance is the Candelaria Restaurant, which doubles as the hotel’s breakfast room. In the evenings, the restaurant serves international cuisine. In the morning, it serves a lovely breakfast featuring baked goods, fruit, and eggs made to order. The restaurant also provides room service.
Further into the hotel, you will find the front desk and the gracious staff, who are fluent in Spanish and English.
Past the front desk is an interior courtyard filled with hanging green plants.
At the far end of the inner courtyard is a small lap pool with water features cascading into it. I visited Cartegena in October, which is the hottest month of the year and has the highest humidity. In such weather, the pool was a tad warm to my taste.
On the 4th floor are a spa and Turkish bath with spa services available for purchase.
On the roof are a sun deck and a small pool/jacuzzi.
Rooms
There are a variety of rooms in Hotel Casa La Factoria.
- Standard Room (1 Queen Bed): Cozy with modern amenities like a minibar, flat screen TV, Wi-Fi, and daily cleaning. Max occupancy: 2.
- Premium Room (1 Queen Bed): Upgraded furnishings for added comfort. Max occupancy: 2.
- Standard Room (1 King Bed): Spacious with a king bed and the same amenities. Max occupancy: 2.
- Premium Room (1 King Bed, Pool View): Luxurious with pool views. Max occupancy: 2.
- Studio (1 King Bed, Private Terrace): This unit offers a private terrace for a more exclusive experience. The maximum occupancy is 3.
- 2 Bedroom Suite (2 King Beds, Balcony): This suite is perfect for families or groups. It has two king beds and a balcony. The maximum occupancy is 5.
I stayed in a standard room on the 3rd floor. This hotel is in a historic building with no elevators, although the staff did not let me cart even my small suitcase up and down the stairs.
The only unusual amenity is that it came with a snuggly teddy bear, which is not counted in the maximum occupancy. I was not tempted to take home the hotel’s plush bathrobe… but the teddy bear was another story. The hotel information called this furry fellow a “stuffed monkey” and will sell it to you for 150,000 pesos or about $35.
Other Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
- Full bathroom amenities
- Meeting and event spaces available
Nearby Attractions
- Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: A historic fortress that offers panoramic views of Cartagena. I walked there, but I recommend taking a taxi or Uber.
- Plaza Santo Domingo: A lively square surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops.
- Cartagena Cathedral: A beautiful example of colonial architecture.
- Plaza de Bolivar: A shaded park usually filled with music, vendors, and dancers.
- Museum of Gold: A free museum that highlights the crafts of the indigenous people of the region.
Booking
Room rates start at around $190 per night and vary by season. Check for the latest rates at the hotel website or online at Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Expedia.
Conclusion
I loved my stay at this hotel and would gladly return. It is a great base for exploring the old city, especially if you come when the weather is hot, as it was for my visit. I would explore the city on a free walking tour, return to the hotel for a shower and a dip in the pool, and then head out again for another tour.
With its excellent location, luxurious amenities, and elegant rooms, Hotel Casa La Factoria Cartagena by Faranda Boutique is an ideal destination for leisure travelers looking to experience the beauty and history of Cartagena.
All photos and opinions are those of the author.
