Hi GSD Leaders! What if one trip could awaken your senses, reconnect you with nature, spark fresh ideas, and inspire your next big event all at once?

If you’re part of the GSD community, you already know: with us, wellness always comes first. Because when you're grounded and aligned, everything flows better. Including your work, your energy, and your relationships.

That’s exactly what happened on our recent journey through one of Colombia’s most underrated treasures: Quindío. Tucked away in the heart of the Coffee Region, this place completely shifted our perspective on travel, culture, and wellness.

Our adventure began with a pre-conference trip hosted by the International Association of Destination Wedding Professionals (IADWP), leading up to the World Romance Travel Conference in Cartagena where I had the honor of speaking on Transforming Hospitality with AI. But before the stage and spotlight, we immersed ourselves in the magic of Quindío.

In this region, you’ll experience more than beautiful landscapes and incredible food. You’ll feel the warmth of its people, the depth of its traditions, and the positive energy that surrounds you like a gentle embrace. 

Read on as we walk you through the beauty, culture, and one-of-a-kind experiences that make Quindío a must-visit for planners, creatives, and curious travelers alike.

If you're flying in from Cartagena, it only takes about 45 minutes to land in Quindío. One of Colombia’s best-kept secrets is tucked right between Cali, Bogotá, and Medellín, as this region is the heart of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle.

From the moment you arrive, you're surrounded by lush green hills, vibrant coffee farms, and a sense of calm that invites you to slow down. You can even witness the daily coffee harvest—an unforgettable experience that connects you to the land, the people, and the rich traditions of this region. Whether you're planning a destination wedding, a wellness escape, or your next creative retreat, Quindío sets the perfect backdrop.

If you're dreaming of a romantic escape or planning an intimate wedding surrounded by nature, La Herencia Casa de Huéspedes is a place you’ll want on your radar. Tucked into the lush landscapes of Quindío, this family-owned gem offers peaceful, elegant vibes that make you feel instantly at home.

The property is made up of five large houses—think of it as a private family compound turned boutique experience. One of the standout homes, El Recreo, honors traditional Antioquian architecture, blending heritage with warmth and charm. You’ll be wrapped in nature, coffee culture, and thoughtful design, all in one.

What made it extra special for us? The owners. They’re young, fun, and incredibly kind. Their energy is contagious, and their passion shows in the beautiful, stylish weddings they host. (We were obsessed with the clear tent they use for receptions. It’s stunning against the backdrop of the Colombian mountains.)

And yes, it's pet-friendly. Because they know family includes the furry ones too.

When you’re in Quindío, Casa Mama Luz is one of those must-visit spots that leaves a lasting impression. The food? Packed with rich, authentic Colombian flavors that tell a story with every bite. The meal is a full-on culinary journey through the heart of the region.

But what makes this place even more special is what you might not expect: they produce their own wine!! Something incredibly rare in Colombia, where wine-making isn’t a common practice. In fact, it’s the first wine made in the region.

We especially loved that the speaker who welcomed us during our visit was a woman leading the way in a space that's often male-dominated. Supporting other women, especially in hospitality and entrepreneurship, is a big deal to us. So this stop really hit home.

If you're looking for a cozy, relaxed spot to wind down after a day of exploring, La Cava Bistro Enoteca is the place to be. Sip on exquisite wines while enjoying the terrace views. It's the kind of place that invites you to slow down and soak in the magic of Quindío.

When we visited, we were surprised with a rum tasting experience! It added such a fun and unexpected twist to the evening. Whether you're into wine or want a memorable spot to unwind, this little gem is definitely worth a visit.

After brunch, make your way to the breathtaking Cocora Valley—a protected gem in Quindío famous for its dramatic landscapes and Colombia’s towering national tree, the wax palm. It's a postcard-perfect backdrop; it’s also an unforgettable setting for a destination wedding.

When we visited, we had the chance to take part in a wax palm ritual. We hiked through the lush valley, got our hands dirty planting trees, and truly connected with nature (and each other). We loved that even with the unpredictable weather, the team was so prepared. The weather didn’t take away from the experience one bit. 

One of the host wedding planners even gathered leaves and twigs during the walk and later used them to decorate the dining table. That small gesture tied everything together and reminded us how meaningful, grounded, and beautiful sustainable touches can be.

Stroll through the colorful, cobblestone streets of Salento, a charming town full of vibrant shops, handmade crafts, and local flavor. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, wander, and take it all in.

One of our favorite moments? It started raining, and instead of heading inside, we danced in the middle of the street. It was spontaneous, joyful, and unforgettable. When you visit, lean into those little moments. They just might become your favorite memories.

At Hacienda El Palmar, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the natural beauty and rich culture that makes Quindío so special. This charming family-owned hacienda blends colonial splendor with modern elegance, making it an ideal location for an intimate wedding or full venue buyout. While the main house offers cozy charm, there’s also a spacious green camp area nearby that can accommodate larger gatherings.

What stood out most during our visit was the warmth of their customer service. It’s the kind of hospitality that makes you feel instantly at home. The food was incredible, the entertainment was full of heart, and the atmosphere was unforgettable. It’s the kind of place that welcomes you in and leaves you wanting to come back.

Start your morning at Mocawa Resort with a flavorful brunch and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This resort blends vibrant colonial architecture with modern comforts, making it a great choice for weddings, honeymoons, or even a relaxed family getaway.

While we didn’t stay long, the vibe here felt perfect for a laid-back family vacation—plenty of space, lush grounds, and amenities that cater to all ages. Whether you're soaking in the views or exploring the nearby coffee region, it’s a peaceful place to reset and recharge.

Experience the innovative spirit of Hacienda RioBamba and experience a place where Colombia’s deep agricultural roots meet forward-thinking innovation. Since 2009, this hacienda has reimagined traditional farming through a modern lens, offering visitors a refreshing and inspiring perspective.

What really makes this place special is that it’s said to have inspired the Disney movie Encanto! One of the team members, Camilo—yes, just like the character—hosted the Disney creative crew right here and gave them a firsthand look at the magic of the hacienda. As you walk the grounds, it’s easy to see why. From the landscape to the energy, it truly feels like you’ve stepped into a Disney story.

At Bio Habitat Hotel, you’ll find an immersive retreat surrounded by vibrant gardens and lush greenery. This 67-square-meter sanctuary offers breathtaking views of coffee plantations, towering mountains, and untouched native forests. With a spacious terrace, outdoor jacuzzi, and green roofs perfect for stargazing, it’s designed for deep relaxation and connection with nature.

We cannot wait to come back and spend more time here. Out of all the places we visited, this one stole our hearts. If you're looking for peace, design, and nature all in one place? This is it.

Make time to explore Hacienda Combia in Calarcá, Quindío. Just 30 minutes from Armenia. With its lush grounds and colonial charm set against a UNESCO-recognized coffee landscape, this venue offers more than just a beautiful setting for a wedding. It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the coffee culture that defines the region.

The Combia Tour that we did? That’s where the real magic happens. We had a hands-on coffee tasting experience, learning how to identify different types of coffee by scent, taste, and texture. It was both fun and educational. As a sweet finale, we received a personalized coffee mug with our names on it. A thoughtful touch that made the experience even more memorable.

Our adventure through Quindío was nothing short of magical. From planting trees during the Wax Palm Ritual in Cocora Valley, sipping Colombia’s first regional wine, to learning how to truly taste coffee—every stop offered a unique experience. This region’s lush coffee landscapes, combined with warm hospitality, vibrant culture, and a deep connection to nature, make it an exceptional destination for weddings, wellness, and meaningful travel experiences.

Whether you're a wedding planner looking for unforgettable venues, a travel enthusiast seeking soul-filling adventures, or someone craving a deeper connection to culture and nature, Colombia gives you something truly special to remember.

We’ll be back this April, and we’d love to feature even more hidden gems. If you're a venue, wellness resort, luxury wedding destination, photographer, cinematographer, artist, or content creator interested in collaborating on our next adventure, email us at connect@angelaproffitt.com.

And if you’ve explored any of these incredible places, we’d love to hear your stories too. Let’s inspire others to discover the magic of Quindío, one unforgettable experience at a time.

Until next time, happy travels! 🌟

At GSD Creative, we specialize in training marketing teams on User-Generated Content (UGC) creation and offer comprehensive content services, including capturing content for special events, travel events, and wellness brands and resorts. We integrate consistent content creation into your overall marketing plan with podcasts, blogs, campaigns, and consulting, emphasizing short-form videos for maximum impact. With over two decades of experience in curating luxury events and a background in psychology, we excel at customizing and strategizing user experiences and messaging from start to finish.