Introduction
Nestled in the lush green hills of Colombia’s Coffee Region, Jardín is a small but vibrant town that feels like stepping into a postcard. Known for its colorful architecture, rich coffee culture, and tranquil atmosphere, Jardín is the perfect retreat for digital nomads seeking inspiration and balance. I spent a week in this charming town, working remotely while sipping some of the world’s best coffee, and it quickly became one of my favorite destinations in Colombia.
Jardín’s charm lies in its simplicity. The plaza, surrounded by brightly painted colonial buildings, is the heart of the town, where locals and visitors gather to relax, chat, and enjoy fresh coffee. The town is small enough to feel intimate but offers plenty to explore, from breathtaking hikes to coffee farm tours.
For digital nomads, Jardín provides a unique combination of quiet productivity and outdoor adventure. If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of larger cities, this quaint town offers a slower pace of life without sacrificing modern comforts. With its reliable Wi-Fi, welcoming community, and stunning natural surroundings, Jardín is a hidden gem worth discovering.
How to Get to Jardín
Reaching Jardín is part of the adventure. Here’s how you can get there:
• From Medellín:
Jardín is about a 3-hour drive from Medellín, making it a popular weekend escape for city dwellers. You can take a direct bus from Terminal del Sur, which offers comfortable and affordable rides. I opted for a private car service to enjoy the scenic journey through the Andes Mountains—a decision I didn’t regret!
• From Bogotá or Cali:
If you’re coming from Bogotá or Cali, the easiest option is to fly to Medellín and then take the bus or car from there. The flight takes about 1 hour, and the transition to Jardín is seamless.
As I arrived in Jardín, I was greeted by the cool mountain air and the smell of fresh coffee wafting through the streets. It felt like a world away from the noise of the city, and I knew immediately that I had made the right choice.
Why Jardín?
Jardín isn’t just a beautiful town—it’s a haven for digital nomads seeking tranquility, inspiration, and a strong connection to Colombian culture. During my stay, I quickly realized why this hidden gem has been gaining popularity among remote workers. Here’s what makes Jardín so special:
1. A Tranquil Environment for Productivity
Jardín’s peaceful atmosphere is its greatest asset. Unlike larger cities like Medellín or Bogotá, where the constant hustle can be overwhelming, Jardín provides the perfect setting to focus on your work. The soft hum of life in the town is calming, and the natural beauty surrounding it is nothing short of inspiring.
One of my favorite moments was setting up my laptop at a café near the plaza, sipping on freshly brewed coffee while working under the shade of towering palm trees. The lack of distractions made it easy to dive into my projects, and I found myself more productive here than in any bustling coworking space.
2. Coffee Culture at Its Finest
Jardín is located in the heart of Colombia’s Coffee Region, and its coffee culture is unparalleled. During my stay, I visited several local farms, where I learned about the art of coffee production—from planting to brewing. The passion of the farmers was contagious, and every cup of coffee felt like a masterpiece.
For a deeper dive into coffee culture, consider taking a guided tour of a finca (coffee farm). Not only will you gain a new appreciation for your morning brew, but you’ll also meet the people who dedicate their lives to this craft.
3. Affordable Living
Living in Jardín is surprisingly budget-friendly, which is a huge draw for digital nomads. Here’s a breakdown of what I spent:
• Accommodation: A comfortable guesthouse cost me $25 USD per night, and longer-term rentals are available for as little as $300–$500 USD per month.
• Food: Dining at local restaurants cost around $3–$7 USD per meal, with hearty portions of traditional dishes like bandeja paisa and ajiaco.
• Transportation: The town is walkable, so I barely spent anything on transportation. When needed, moto-taxis cost about $1–$2 USD for short rides.
If you’re looking to live well on a budget, Jardín is hard to beat. For more tips on managing expenses, check out How to Save Money While Living as a Digital Nomad in Colombia.
4. A Warm and Welcoming Community
Jardín’s residents are known for their hospitality, and I experienced this firsthand. From friendly greetings in the plaza to impromptu conversations with locals about the best hiking trails, I felt like I belonged almost immediately. The community here is small but tight-knit, making it easy to connect with both locals and other travelers.
5. Nature at Your Doorstep
If you’re a fan of the outdoors, Jardín will steal your heart. The town is surrounded by lush green hills, waterfalls, and coffee farms, offering endless opportunities for exploration. On weekends, I ventured out to hike to Cueva del Esplendor, a stunning waterfall hidden inside a cave. The hike was challenging but absolutely worth it for the view.
For digital nomads seeking a balance between work and adventure, Jardín provides the best of both worlds. Its serene environment, rich coffee culture, and affordability make it an ideal destination to work and unwind.
Best Cafes and Workspaces
One of the things I loved most about Jardín was how easy it was to find the perfect spot to work. While the town doesn’t have traditional coworking spaces, it offers a variety of charming cafes and serene outdoor spaces where you can be productive while enjoying the relaxed vibe of the Coffee Region. Here are my top recommendations:
1. Café Macanas
Located just off the main plaza, Café Macanas became my go-to spot during my stay in Jardín. With its rustic decor, fast Wi-Fi, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s perfect for digital nomads looking for a quiet place to work. The café also serves some of the best coffee I’ve ever tasted—locally sourced, of course—and their homemade pastries are a must-try.
I spent many mornings here, sitting by the window with my laptop and watching the town slowly come to life. The staff are incredibly friendly and always made me feel at home.
2. Dulces del Jardín
If you have a sweet tooth, Dulces del Jardín is the place to be. This cozy café is famous for its desserts, but it’s also a surprisingly great spot to work. The Wi-Fi is reliable, and the laid-back ambiance makes it easy to settle in for a productive session.
I’d often take breaks to indulge in their arequipe-filled pastries, which paired perfectly with a strong cup of black coffee. It’s a great spot for an afternoon work session.
3. Work-Friendly Guesthouses
Many guesthouses in Jardín are designed with remote workers in mind, offering comfortable rooms with dedicated workspaces and communal areas. During my stay, I opted for a guesthouse just a few minutes from the plaza, which had:
• A quiet garden where I could work outdoors.
• Reliable Wi-Fi throughout the property.
• A small desk in my room for focused work sessions.
If you’re staying longer, renting an apartment or villa with a workspace is another great option. Many listings on platforms like Airbnb cater to digital nomads.
4. Outdoor Workspaces
Jardín’s mild climate and natural beauty make it ideal for outdoor working. One of my favorite spots was the main plaza, where I’d occasionally work from a shaded bench. While the Wi-Fi here is hit or miss, it’s a great spot for brainstorming or taking calls using mobile data.
For something more immersive, I’d recommend working from one of the town’s coffee farms. Many fincas offer peaceful seating areas surrounded by coffee plants and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
Pro Tips for Working in Jardín
• Wi-Fi Backup: While most cafes and guesthouses offer stable Wi-Fi, having a local SIM card with Claro or Movistar is essential for staying connected.
• Power Banks: Power outages are rare but can happen during storms. Carrying a portable charger ensures you won’t lose any work.
• Early Mornings: Jardín is at its quietest in the early morning, making it the perfect time to focus on work before exploring the town.
Finding the right place to work in Jardín is part of the experience. Whether you’re enjoying the aroma of freshly brewed coffee at a café or soaking in the views from a coffee farm, every workspace feels unique and inspiring. For more tips on working remotely in Colombia, check out The Ultimate Guide to Living as a Digital Nomad in Colombia.
Things to Do After Work
One of the best things about working remotely in Jardín is how easy it is to switch from productivity mode to adventure mode. The town’s small size and proximity to natural wonders mean you’re never far from something fun or inspiring to do after you’ve closed your laptop for the day. Here’s how I spent my evenings and weekends in Jardín:
1. Wander the Main Plaza
Jardín’s main plaza is the heart of the town and the perfect place to unwind after a day of work. Surrounded by colorful colonial buildings, it’s a lively spot where locals and travelers gather to chat, relax, and enjoy the evening breeze. I loved grabbing a seat at one of the outdoor cafés, sipping on a cup of freshly brewed coffee, and watching the world go by.
At night, the plaza comes alive with street performers, musicians, and food vendors. It’s the kind of place where you can strike up a conversation with strangers and feel instantly at home.
2. Visit Cueva del Esplendor
One of Jardín’s most famous attractions is the Cueva del Esplendor, a stunning waterfall located inside a cave. After hearing about it from a local, I decided to make the trek, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip. The hike to the cave is challenging but rewarding, taking you through lush green hills and past coffee farms.
Once inside the cave, the sight of the waterfall cascading through a natural opening in the ceiling is breathtaking. It’s a perfect activity for a day off, and the photos alone are worth the effort.
3. Explore Coffee Farms
As a coffee lover, visiting the coffee farms around Jardín was a must. Many farms offer guided tours where you can learn about the coffee-making process, from planting and harvesting to roasting and brewing. I spent an afternoon at Finca Los Angeles, where the owner personally showed me around and explained the secrets behind their rich, aromatic coffee.
Most tours end with a tasting session, where you can savor a fresh cup of coffee while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills. It’s an experience that combines education with relaxation.
4. Take a Hike to Cascada La Escalera
For those who love the outdoors, the Cascada La Escalera hike is a must. This beautiful waterfall is located just a short walk from the town center, making it an easy and rewarding excursion. I often headed there after work to clear my mind and enjoy the soothing sound of rushing water.
5. Horseback Riding Through the Countryside
Jardín’s countryside is best explored on horseback, and several local operators offer guided tours. During my ride, I marveled at the rolling green hills, the colorful flowers lining the trails, and the occasional glimpse of a toucan or hummingbird. It’s a peaceful way to experience the natural beauty of the area and connect with its rural charm.
6. Sunset at Cristo Rey
One of my favorite evening activities was hiking up to Cristo Rey, a statue of Christ overlooking the town. The hike takes about 30 minutes and offers stunning views of Jardín and the surrounding valley. I made it a ritual to watch the sunset from this spot, as the colors of the sky reflected beautifully over the rooftops of the town.
Pro Tips for Evening Activities
• Dress Comfortably: Whether you’re hiking or strolling through the plaza, wear comfortable shoes and light layers to adapt to Jardín’s mild weather.
• Plan Ahead: Some activities, like the Cueva del Esplendor tour, require reservations. Be sure to check availability in advance.
The variety of activities in Jardín ensures you’ll never feel bored or burnt out. Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, visiting coffee farms, or simply relaxing in the plaza, every experience adds a layer of richness to your stay. For more tips on balancing work and travel, read Balancing Work and Travel in Colombia: Tips for Digital Nomads.
Conclusion
Jardín is a hidden gem that every digital nomad should consider adding to their list of remote work destinations. With its tranquil environment, vibrant coffee culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, it offers the perfect mix of productivity and adventure. Whether you’re sipping on world-class coffee in the plaza, hiking to stunning waterfalls, or immersing yourself in the traditions of Colombia’s Coffee Region, Jardín is a place where work and life seamlessly blend.
What sets Jardín apart is its simplicity. The town invites you to slow down, enjoy the moment, and reconnect with nature—all while staying productive. For me, working remotely in Jardín was not just about completing tasks; it was about finding inspiration in the town’s serene atmosphere and warm community.
Of course, Jardín isn’t for everyone. If you’re someone who thrives on the energy of big cities or needs access to coworking hubs, this small town might feel limiting. But for those who value peace, affordability, and the chance to live among some of the most stunning landscapes in Colombia, Jardín is a destination worth exploring.
Ready to discover more hidden gems in Colombia? Check out our guide on The Best Cities in Colombia for Digital Nomads: A Complete Comparison and start planning your next adventure today.
