Villa de Leyva is said to be one of the most charming villages in Colombia, with its colonial architecture, cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings and mild climate. Located in the Boyacá department of Colombia, and a three-hour drive from the capital, Bogotá, this picturesque village was declared a national monument in 1954 and is a tourist haven. Its 400-year-old plaza, the largest open square in South America, hosts regular markets and festivals, making it a hub of activity on weekends. Don’t leave town without heading into the spectacular surrounding mountains – either on foot, bicycle or horseback – where waterfalls, lakes, caves and archaeological sites await.