Widely known for its warm thermal baths, the result of volcanic activity in the adjacent mountains, Santa Rosa de Cabal is the most relaxing destination in the Andean region. The fresh mountain air and the green hues that dominate wherever you look come together like a balm for muscles weary from adventures.
In any case, Santa Rosa is not limited to its mineral-rich waters; it is also one of the main gateways to Parque Nacional Los Nevados, where you can set out on high-altitude hikes to discover dreamlike lakes and glacier-covered peaks. And beyond the park, you can explore local routes to delve into coffee farms and even reach hidden waterfalls.
As if all that weren’t enough, the countryside surrounding Santa Rosa is home to the local pride: chorizo santarrosano, considered by many to be the tastiest sausage in Colombia, and found equally in restaurants, cafés, and street stalls throughout the region.
Attractions and experiences
Thermal Baths
With three thermal complexes surrounded by the most beautiful landscapes, Santa Rosa is the official relaxation capital of Colombia. The complexes closest to the city are Termales de Santa Rosa de Cabal and Balneario Termales, both set beneath breathtaking waterfalls and fed by the waters of the same spring, alongside the San Ramón River. Termales de Santa Rosa is the original venture and includes a hotel area, while Balneario is a larger complex, ideal for a day visit.
A bit further up the mountain, along a more rustic road, you’ll reach the remote Reserva Termal San Vicente and find that the extra effort is well worth it. The air in this lush valley is much purer, and the pristine surroundings enhance the experience of immersing yourself in the mineral waters, and thus, in nature. While the main pools are near the restaurant, be sure to venture a bit farther to enjoy the natural ponds in the lower part of the complex, where the warm thermal waters merge with a cool river amid dense vegetation.
Wellness
Parque Nacional Los Nevados
In the high Andes above Santa Rosa de Cabal lies the Potosí station, one of the several entrances to the magnificent Parque Nacional Los Nevados and the best place to begin the trek up to Nevado Santa Isabel and its mountain glacier, the lowest in the entire country. It’s possible to reach the glacier from Santa Rosa on a one-day guided excursion, but you’ll have to rise early to accomplish it. In return for your effort, you’ll be rewarded with priceless views of the park’s spectacular peaks interspersed with páramos covered in delicate wildflowers. However, if your goal is to reach the summit of the Nevado, you’ll need to spend the night there.
In Potosí, there is also a trail that leads to the Otún lagoon. In this ecosystem, one of the most important wetlands of the western Andes, you’ll find many exotic bird species, including owls and hummingbirds. From the lagoon, you can exit the park by way of the alternative route through La Pastora toward Pereira.
Nature
Practical details
Accommodation
Santa Rosa has a wide variety of lodging options geared toward tourism. The downtown area offers many comfortable hotels, though if you have your own vehicle, you may prefer one of the many rural accommodations on the way to the thermal complexes. On the borders of Parque Los Nevados, you can find a simple farmhouse, an ideal option for adventurers looking to acclimate before taking on challenging trails.
Getting there
Santa Rosa is very close to Pereira, which has an international airport and land routes that connect to various destinations across the country. To the north, a well-maintained highway links the municipality with Manizales and other parts of the region.
Practical tip
The thermal baths tend to be very busy on weekends, but on other days you’ll likely find them empty and peaceful. All three complexes stay open until late, so you can enjoy a relaxing nighttime soak.
