La Unión, Antioquia: gastronomy, adventure, and culture

La Unión is a municipality located in the department of Antioquia, Colombia. This municipality is in the Eastern subregion of the department and is known for its cool climate and mountainous landscapes.

La Unión’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with potato, bean, and corn crops being the most important. Additionally, it boasts notable dairy production.

La Unión is also recognized for its colonial architecture and its natural attractions, such as waterfalls and ecological trails, which are popular among tourists seeking ecotourism experiences. The municipality offers a blend of rural tranquility and natural beauty, making it an interesting destination for those wishing to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

History

La Unión, Antioquia, was founded on March 15, 1881, by Antioquian settlers looking for new agricultural lands. This small municipality, located in eastern Antioquia, quickly stood out for its prosperous agricultural activity, especially in the cultivation of potatoes, beans, and corn.

The municipality of La Unión preserves a rich cultural and architectural heritage from the colonial era, reflected in its old houses, churches, and squares.

The Church of Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes, located in the main park, is a notable example of colonial architecture that attracts visitors for its beauty and historical value.

La Unión is famous for its mountainous landscapes and cool climate, which offer an ideal environment for outdoor activities. Waterfalls and ecological trails are points of interest for tourists seeking adventures in nature.

What to do in La Unión, Antioquia?

Cuchilla de San José Natural Reserve, La Unión, Antioquia

The Cuchilla de San José Natural Reserve is a prominent ecotourism destination in La Unión, Antioquia, attracting those seeking experiences amidst nature and adventure. Here you’ll find spectacular landscapes and rich biodiversity, ideal for ecotourism lovers.

In the reserve, you can engage in activities such as:

• • Hiking and Walking.
  • Birdwatching.
  • Waterfall Exploration.
  • Landscape Photography.
  • Environmental Education Programs.

Location: Situated in La Unión, Antioquia, about 56 km from Medellín. The municipality’s altitude is approximately 2500 meters above sea level, contributing to its cool climate with an average temperature of 13°C. It is advisable to use a suitable vehicle for mountainous terrain, as some routes can be steep and unpaved.

Accommodation: Although lodging options in La Unión are limited, you can find fincas (country estates) and small rural accommodations that offer an authentic and welcoming experience. It is advisable to plan and book in advance.

Buena Vista restaurant in La Unión

We must tell you, it’s one of our favorite restaurants to visit on weekends.

Buena Vista Restaurant, located on the road from Medellín to La Unión, Antioquia, is an essential destination for lovers of good food and high-quality dairy products. This establishment combines an exquisite gastronomic offering with a charming natural setting, making the visit a memorable experience.

Due to the place’s popularity, especially on weekends, it is recommended to make an advance reservation.

Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of cheeses, yogurts, and butters, all made with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant’s cuisine is inspired by flavors that aim to touch the soul and transform the family experience of eating together.

The restaurant is designed to capture the natural and beautiful essence of La Unión’s surroundings. By closing your eyes and enjoying the aromas and flavors, visitors find themselves in a place that combines nature with the comfort of a modern delicatessen. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, ideal for relaxing and enjoying a meal with friends or family.

In addition to the gastronomic offer, Buena Vista also focuses on providing well-being through food. The dairy products available are not only delicious but are also designed to nourish and feed in a healthy way. The restaurant’s physical store allows visitors to take home these fresh products to enjoy at any time.

Potato festivities

The Folkloric and Popular Potato Festivities (Fiestas de la Papa) are one of the most important and traditional events in La Unión, Antioquia. These festivities take place between June and July and pay homage to the potato, an essential crop in the region’s economy and culture.

Expect:

• • Parades and Comparsas (Troupes).
  • Agricultural Contests and Exhibitions.
  • Gastronomic Events.
  • Cultural and Recreational Activities.
  • Artisan and Commercial Fairs.

Do the tractour and buggy tours

Buggy tours are an exciting activity to explore the natural and rural landscapes of La Unión, Antioquia. These tours offer a fun and adventurous way to get to know the municipality’s surroundings, ideal for those seeking a different and adrenaline-filled experience.

The duration of the tours can vary, from short one-hour trips to half-day excursions. Specific routes will depend on the tour operator and the group’s preferences. Participants generally need to have a valid driver’s license to operate the buggies.