Eastern Antioquia is the region that is home to the airport, dams, and the best-preserved towns in the department. El Retiro, neighboring Envigado and minutes from the Túnel de Oriente, is the closest and most accessible of these colonial towns, offering a wonderful contrast between its rural tranquility and the effervescence of Medellín.
El Retiro is a destination with two sides: the historical, with its perfectly preserved plaza, and the ecological, with its mountains full of waterfalls and trails. For Hotel Sloh guests looking for a day trip that combines physical effort and visual rewards, the hike to El Salto del Ángel is the ideal option.
1. Logistics: Getting to the East
El Retiro is one of the closest and best-connected municipalities to Medellín, thanks to the Túnel de Oriente tunnel.
Step 1: Transportation Terminal
● Options: You have two departure points in Medellín. The North Terminal (Metro Caribe) or the South Terminal (near El Poblado). Companies such as Sotraurabá or Sotraretiro cover this route.
● Expert Tip: If you are traveling from El Poblado, going to the South Terminal is usually faster and more convenient.
● Cost (2025 Estimate): A one-way bus ticket costs between $8,000 and $12,000 COP.
● Duration: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, if the bus takes the tunnel route.
Step 2: Arrival in the Village
The bus will drop you off at El Retiro Terminal, which is a few minutes' walk from the main square. Here you can stock up on water and snacks before you start.
2. The Hike: El Salto del Ángel Waterfall
El Salto del Ángel is the natural jewel of the area. It is about a 20-30 minute drive from the main square (taking the road towards La Fe/Donde Julio).
● Access: From the village, it is best to take a taxi, motorcycle taxi, or local bus to get as close as possible to the trailhead (ask for the road that leads to the village of Pantanal or El Salto del Ángel).
● The Trail: Once you reach the base, the hike itself is moderately difficult. The trail is natural, sometimes wet, and has some rocky slopes. It is essential to wear boots or sneakers with good traction.
● Duration: The total hike (round trip from the trailhead) can take between 2 and 3 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at the base of the waterfall.
● The Waterfall: It is a tall and spectacular waterfall. The water is clean and cold. At the base there are natural pools where, weather permitting, you can take a dip.
● Safety: Although the area is quiet, it is recommended not to go alone. The trail is well marked, but if you are unsure, hire a local guide in the main square.
3. The Village: Crafts and Gastronomy
After the walk, the plan focuses on the village. El Retiro is famous for two things:
Architecture and Carpentry
The historic center is immaculately preserved: white houses with red clay tiles, flower-filled balconies, and carved wooden doors.
● Carpentry: Historically, El Retiro was a center for furniture manufacturing. You will see carpenters' workshops where wood is worked using traditional techniques. It is an excellent place to buy wooden crafts or unique small pieces of furniture.
● The Plaza: Take some time to sit on the wooden benches in the main park and watch the slow pace of village life.
The Barbecue Route
El Retiro has gained fame for its cuisine. It is a key location on the barbecue route.
● The Dish: Churrasco (grilled steak) and trout (fresh from nearby farms) are the specialties.
● Restaurants: There are several grills around the park that offer a family atmosphere and generous portions. It's the perfect lunch to replenish the calories burned on the hike.
4. Tips for the Adventurer
1. Be prepared: Bring a small backpack with enough water (at least 1.5 liters per person), energy snacks (nuts), and a small first aid kit (band-aids, insect repellent).
2. Layers of clothing: El Retiro is cold in the morning, but the hike will warm you up. Dress in layers (quick-dry shirt under a jacket).
3. Money: Many local businesses and motorcycle taxis only accept cash. Bring small bills.
4. Recycling: Remember that you are in a nature reserve. Bring all your trash back with you.
From the mountain to the smart comfort of Sloh
A hike to a waterfall is the perfect way to disconnect your mind and reconnect your body with nature. It cleanses the air and the spirit.
However, your leg muscles will feel the slopes at the end of the day. Returning to Hotel Sloh in the Manila neighborhood is the ideal place to recover.
Our hot showers, minimalist room design that promotes calm, and high-tech beds are waiting to pamper your tired body. At Sloh, we transform the fatigue of adventure into deep, restful sleep, preparing you for the next excursion.