'''La Colonia Tovar''' is a small town in Venezuela's Aragua state. It is unique for its remarkable German heritage and beautiful mountainside setting.

Get in

By Bus

A bus from Caracas to El Junquito takes about an hour or more depending on traffic, winding along a congested road that passes through some of Caracas' less pleasant suburbs. In El Junquito you will have to change buses to go to La Colonia Tovar, which takes about another hour passing through generally unremarkable countryside.

By Car

You can follow the above route to El Junquito and then on to La Colonia, although a much more attractive (albeit less direct) route is to go via the town of La Victoria, which itself is about an hour from Caracas along the main highway. This narrow, windy road up to La Colonia passes through nice hills with views of Aragua's valleys.

Get around

Most of La Colonia Tovar is reachable on foot. Parking is limited, so it's advisable to park on arrival and then wander the streets freely. Some restaurants and hotels, however, are on the edge of the town and you may prefer to drive to these, especially in the cold of evening.

See

Do

Buy

Eat

  • Apple strudel
  • German sausages
  • Fresh strawberries
  • Plenty of other fresh fruit and veg
  • Drink

  • Locally brewed beer
  • Sleep

  • [http://www.posadadonelicio.com Posada Don Elicio]. Tel: 0244 355-1254, in La Ballesta sector. One of the best posadas in La Colonia, offering individual chalets or suites each with their own outdoor terrace. Only by reservation. Rooms Bs.210,000 per night for a single, Bs.280,000 for double.
  • '''Hotel Selva Negra''', Tel: 0244 355-1415, selvanegra@cantv.net. At the bottom of the town. One of the oldest hotels in La Colonia, and built in true Alpine style. Very good rooms, including some chalets, and an excellent restaurant.
  • Hotel Bergland. ector El Calvario, via La Victoria, La Colonia Tovar. 244 355 1994. ergland@cantv.net. 244 355 1229. 15 rooms and 4 private cabins that sleep up to 4 people.

    Get out

    The approach to La Colonia Tovar from La Victoria is much more scenic than the road from Caracas and El Junquito. '''Paragliding''' is practised on the hills in this area.