Hotel Zocalo Campestre — Hotel in Guatapé

This hotel is a reasonable and average 3-star option, that (minus the helicopter issue) would be a slight step up from a hostel experience under normal circumstances. However, it has several things letting it down.||||First and foremost, the hotel is situated either on top of, or extremely close to, the helicopter launching pad from which touristic helicopter tours operate. Ostensibly, these tours only operate between 1pm-5pm. However, "transportation" (non-tour) helicopters appear to operate sporadically at other hours.||||In any case, the assault on the senses between the hours of 1pm and 5pm is absolutely extraordinary. I cannot overstate this. It is simply impossible to think of anything else except the helicopters in the immediate vicinity. The helicopters are so loud that you must raise your voice in order to be heard; it is also very difficult to hear others. This, of course, makes understanding Spanish very hard if it is your second language.||||I could almost bear the noise if it was, say, once an hour, but the helicopters leave back-to-back, one after the other, at all times between 1pm-5pm. It is so severe that I would say, as a lawyer (please note this is not legal advice, and I have no qualifications recognised under Colombian law), that, if the helicopter business commenced operation after the hotel businesses in the area, that the hotel businesses probably have a cause of action against both the authorities that approved the helicopter business, as well as potentially the helicopter business itself. Nevertheless, note that this is not legal advice, and I am only qualified under a common law system, not a civil law system.||||Whilst I genuinely feel sorry for the hotels impacted by this noise, my sympathy is somewhat tempered by the fact that the hotel appears to be run (or at least reception is run) by three rather grumpy and sullen young women. While I do feel sorry for these people, as the noise is truly insufferable and must surely impact their mood, their demeanours were nevertheless sincerely unwelcoming and cold. And whilst I realise as a woman myself that it is out of vogue to ask women to smile, at some point, surely being horrible to recently-arrived and polite guests is not a cool thing to do.||||I was further offended when one of them followed us to the room, then proceeded to count each duvet/doona/comforter, each towel, each blanket and each sheet, and asked me to sign a form certifying that there were a certain number of each item in the room. While I am normally exceedingly polite to a fault, I could not help but tell the woman: "no somos ladrones" - we are not thieves. Thankfully, she advised me that it was just in case I "accidentally" took home a doona, or a sheet, or a towel. I was too humble to mention that I could buy a Target store full of doonas if I wanted, thereby obviating any immediate need for me to steal a doona from a third-rate hotel in Colombia, but I kept my mouth shut.||||Another issue with this property is that it has no vibe (except bad vibes), and the garden is overgrown. Everything is quiet. While I have sympathy for the business owners, assuming that the helicopter business came second, the rates are not so spectacularly cheap as to explain an inability to paint the birdbath or keep the grass down. ||||The rooms themselves as noted are, I suppose, a step above a hostel, and I should know, having stayed in hostels all around South America. There is still barely any pressure in the shower, and no hot water - they therefore use an electric heating shower head. Not fun, and in my experience, a great way to get partially electrocuted.||||In the room's defence, the beds were comfortable, and we were warm enough at night, notwithstanding the absence of any heater. The furnishings were nice enough I suppose. The lighting was not very pleasant. There was a bar fridge (empty). THE WIFI DOES NOT WORK IN THE ROOMS and there is only 3G reception - this was painfully annoying.||||Would I recommend this hotel to a friend? No freaking way. Maybe it was nice once upon a time, but that time is not now. They need to look at mobilisation strategies to lobby against the helicopter business, and it will destroy their hotel...

Hotel Zócalo Campestre in Guatapé is truly a gem and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Medellín, Colombia. Though it’s a bit of a journey from the airport, the trip is absolutely worth it. I highly recommend renting a car from the airport for convenience or arranging the hotel’s pick-up service, which makes the experience seamless and stress-free.

This hotel is perfectly situated in a stunning and strategic location, offering breathtaking views that showcase the natural beauty of Guatapé. The tranquility of the surroundings, combined with the vibrant colors and unique architecture, makes this place feel like something out of a dream. It’s not just a hotel; it’s a landmark that truly captures the spirit of Colombia.

The staff at Hotel Zócalo Campestre go above and beyond to ensure every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. A special shout-out goes to Nataly, the office manager, whose professionalism, kindness, and dedication to providing top-notch service truly stand out.

Whether you’re visiting Guatapé for the famous Piedra del Peñol or just looking to unwind in a serene and picturesque setting, this hotel is the perfect choice. It’s more than just accommodation; it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression. I cannot recommend it highly enough—it’s a place that i wish to...

I stayed at Zócalo Campestre Hotel in Guatapé with my boyfriend for one night, and it was such a lovely experience. The hotel is very charming and definitely has that “campestre” countryside feel. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, which made us feel very welcome.

The room was spacious, private, and cozy. While the listing advertised AC (and the room didn’t have it), it wasn’t an issue for us since the weather was rainy and cool. We did have a small problem with the shower not draining properly, but the staff came immediately and fixed it right away, which we appreciated.

The setting is very peaceful and relaxing. In the afternoons, you might hear helicopters from the nearby tours, but it’s not disruptive. In the mornings, you wake up to the sound of birds chirping and even geese walking around, which adds to the charm.

The location is perfect for a romantic getaway, though it’s not walking distance to shops or restaurants — so it’s best to plan meals ahead. On the plus side, it’s very close to La Piedra (the Rock), and the hotel offers free transportation to and from, which was super convenient.

The views are absolutely stunning, and overall it’s a wonderful place to relax and disconnect. I’d definitely recommend this hotel to friends looking for a peaceful...