Stroll along Villa de Leyva's cobblestone streets

Photo: Wikipedia

Among Colombia's many historic towns, this one stands out for its beauty as well as its congenial atmosphere.

Villa de Leyva is a relatively short trip from Bogotá, just three hours by bus (via Tunja).

Accommodation is excellent and cheap; for just US$10-15 per night you can get a cozy room in a historic house near the main plaza.

Having settled in, the best thing to do is stroll along the cobblestone streets, savoring the colonial buildings and countryside life.

Having seen town, hire a bike or a horse and go for a ride in the nearby hills. There are a number of curious sites to explore, including an ostrich farm, an ancient observatory constructed by the Muisca Indians and the fossil of a kronosaurus (a 120 million year old reptile measuring 12 meters long).

Come evening, don't miss the opportunity for a drink at Don D'Bill a bar owned by local hero Bill Lynn (whose claim to fame is playing drum back-ups for Elvis Presley).