Fodor's Expert Review Casa San Agustín

Calle de la Universidad, No. 36–44, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia Fodor's Choice

This intimate and luxurious boutique's distinctive rooms are scattered throughout the white-washed, beautifully decorated former residence in Cartagena's UNESCO-protected Old Town, separated by flower-filled terraces and cozy, book-lined lounges. Because of the setup, each room has a different layout and view (street or garden); some have shared gardens, private plunge pools, or original elements like wood-beamed ceilings or frescoes, while a couple suites are duplexes. All come with free Wi-Fi, Frette linens, Ortigia bath products, HDTVs, and on-request iPads. A small swimming pool beckons in the main courtyard below an ancient aqueduct, as do a few white couch-lined nooks for alfresco refreshments. Staff are professional and genuinely caring, making visitors feel at home, avoiding airs and graces that can so often mar similarly establishments. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating, the Alma restaurant highlights local seafood. Along with the sexy vibe and relaxed-luxury style, the hotel's biggest plus is the central location in the vibrant Old Town.

PROS

  • historic setting
  • chic style
  • ideal Old Town location
  • stylishly integration of the historical structure and chic modern design
  • world-class staff

CONS

  • service can be inconsistent
  • limited English-speaking staff
  • limited on-site facilities
  • no on-site gym
  • at capacity, public spaces like the pool and balcony can feel crowded
  • the live band in the patio on weekends may be a bit noisy for some

QUICK FACTS

Hotel
Historical, New, Romantic
Intimate
Central
Local Flavor
$$$$

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 57-5-681-0000 | 5-681–0000

HOTEL DETAILS

31 rooms
Rate Includes: No meals

What’s Nearby