Hacienda Venecia, in the coffee-farming tradition

20 minutes from Manizales, in the heart of the Coffee Belt, there is Hacienda Venecia, an enchanting place where the same family has lived for four generations, growing and producing coffee.

This beautiful farm produces excellent washed Arabica coffee, exported to Japan, Belgium and Canada for the last eight years.  Also, seven years ago, Venecia began to distribute roasted coffee, to an exclusive group of hotels, restaurants and bars in Bogotá.

This beautiful farm produces excellent washed Arabica coffee.

At the end of 2009, the farm opened its doors to visitors who want to discover the coffee-producing process, the way it´s grown around the world, and particularly in Hacienda Venecia.

There is an educational tour in which visitors can interact with each stage of production, from the sowing of seeds through the growing of the crop and harvesting to humid treatment - a technique which makes Colombian coffee distinctive - and finally, the roasting process.

During the visit, you can discover different types of coffee and quality around the world and in Colombia, and some preparations.

The attractive inn-like accommodation is available for those who want to enjoy some superb scenery, and discover the traditions and values of Colombia and the Colombian coffee industry, with professional guides.  You can also go on trails, or a bicycle ride along a 10-kilometre track, from Manizales to the farm; or arrange to go horseback riding; or try birdwatching (there are116 species to be seen here).

“My dream is that when visitors come to the region and want to learn about the culture and process of good coffee, they should think of about Hacienda Venecia", says Juan Pablo Echeverry, the hotel's manager.

Discover that the charms of Hacienda Venecia!

http://www.haciendavenecia.com/

Visit the Official Guide of the Coffee Triangle*

• www.triangulodelcafe.travel

*"Unesco declares as World Heritage the Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia that includes the regions of Quindio, Risaralda, Caldas and Valle del Cauca"