Summary: Entrerrios, Antioquia — often called the 'Switzerland of Colombia' — sits at 2,300 meters, features cool year-round temperatures, coffee estates, the Riogrande II Reservoir and easy access from Medellín, making it an appealing rural getaway for American travelers.

Entrerrios, Colombia is a compact mountain municipality in Antioquia that offers a peaceful contrast to Colombia’s urban hotspots. Perched at 2,300 meters (7,545 feet) above sea level, the town's cool climate — around 14°C (57°F) on average — and sweeping coffee landscapes have earned it the nickname 'Switzerland of Colombia.'

Why Entrerrios is Known as the 'Switzerland of Colombia'

The comparison to Switzerland stems from Entrerrios’s verdant rolling hills, expansive coffee plantations and pastureland for cattle. The slower pace of life, fresh mountain air and panoramic views create an atmosphere well suited to relaxation, outdoor activities and savoring local food and drink.

Agriculture drives the local economy. Dairy farming is especially prominent, and visitors will notice high-quality cheeses, creams and other dairy products that reflect longstanding farming traditions and sustainable practices in the area.

Top Attractions to Visit in Entrerrios

Despite its small size, Entrerrios offers several natural and cultural points of interest that suit day trips or longer rural stays.

  • Riogrande II Reservoir: A key water source for Medellín and nearby towns, the reservoir also provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking and hiking along its shores.
  • Main Park: The town’s central park offers a quiet spot to relax, admire the local church and sample traditional cuisine at nearby cafes.
  • Cerro de La Cruz: A local hike that rewards visitors with panoramic views over Entrerrios — popular for sunrise and sunset photography.
  • Ecological trails: Networks of paths through native forests, coffee plantations and pastureland for hiking or horseback riding while observing local flora and fauna.
  • Tourist farms: Rural stays that include farm-to-table meals, coffee tours and hands-on experiences with sustainable agriculture.
Coffee plantation terraces and mountainous landscape around Entrerrios, Antioquia
Coffee fields and rolling hills near Entrerrios create the town's signature pastoral scenery

Culture, Festivals and Local Cuisine

Entrerrios showcases Antioquian traditions through food, music and events. The Fiestas del Paisaje, celebrated each June, highlights the region’s cultural and natural heritage with sports, music and local gastronomy.

Gastronomically, visitors can enjoy bandeja paisa — a hearty Antioquia platter — handmade corn arepas, and a range of dairy-based sweets that reflect the area’s strong dairy sector. Entrerrios coffee, known for a smooth, aromatic profile, is a must-try when touring plantations or staying on a tourist farm.

How to Get There

Entrerrios lies roughly a two-hour drive from Medellín, along well-maintained roads that pass through scenic countryside. The route makes Entrerrios a convenient choice for a weekend escape or an extended rural stay for travelers based in Medellín or exploring Antioquia.

What Travelers Should Expect

Expect a relaxed rhythm, outdoor-focused activities and immersion in rural life. Accommodations often include rustic guesthouses or cabins on working farms, and many local operators offer guided coffee experiences and nature walks.

Practical considerations: pack layers for the cool, changeable mountain weather; bring cash for small purchases in rural settings; and if planning to visit during June, book ahead to experience Fiestas del Paisaje.

Why this matters: Entrerrios offers American travelers an accessible, authentic alternative to Colombia’s busier destinations. Its combination of cool climate, agricultural tourism and outdoor trails makes it an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation, nature and cultural connection without long travel times.