La Pastora

Tired of the city, traffic jams, routines and technology?

Well, I have found a place full of tranquility, peace, colour and fresh air. It is a natural paradise on the outskirts of the city of Pereira, known by tourists as "La Pastora".

"La Pastora" is a country house in between mountains and forests. It is a haven that gives us the gift of nature and that incites locals and tourists alike to explore the region and find activities to do outside in the fresh air. The landscape is totally unique, green shines through from the mountains and the valleys that surround it. The waterfalls excite the climb and refresh your body, mind and heart. The beautiful flowers contrastwith the intense green on the ground and you can feel the magic during every step you take: it is like a harmonious dance between you and nature.

How to access "La Pastora"

There are a few ways to arrive here:

• 1. The first way is by taking a "chiva", a type of public transport here in Colombia, especially in Eje Cafetero. You can get on one from la Plaza Cívica in the city of Pereira going towards the Corregimiento de la Florida. However, the people who organise these always ask the passengers where they are going to, if this is the case, say to them that you are going to El Cedral, which is the last station. Get off here and start walking towards the mountains, rocks, river and forest. It will take you two hours and thirty minutes approximately to arrive here. Admire the beauty of the nature around you and enjoy your existence. It is an extremely restorative walk and you are one with the environment.
• 2. Another alternative is to arrive at the Corregimiento de La Florida by car or whatever other transport you like and start your walk from there.

In La Pastora there are options to stay in hostels that you can find close to the camp site, sheltering under the light of the moon and the stars, delighting in the majestic nature of the mysterious night, filled with curiosity and reflection. Furthermore, there is a restaurant that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. In the evening, for those staying in the hostel, they offer you a glass of wine to warm you up and allow you to enjoy the night with the light from the campfire and the candles, as well as smooth music.

It is generally quite cold during the nights, so I would advise you to bring warm clothes and water for the long walks, as well as spare clothes as the waterfalls can spray you. It is all such a revitalising adventure for every visitor and allows you to recharge before returning to the city.