Our Coffee and Town
Our Farm
“El Camino del Cafe” is a small farm located at the heart of the Colombian ‘Coffee Triangle’ in the beautiful town of Santuario, Risaralda. We pride ourselves for producing high quality Arabica shade-grown coffee, a growing technique that not only ensures an exquisite taste, but also helps preserve the natural environment and avoids the use of chemicals and pesticides.
Santuario, Colombia
Santuario is small Colombian town situated in the heart of the country's famed "Coffee Triangle," an area known for its rich coffee-growing history and the production of high-quality Arabica beans.
The town is surrounded by lush green mountains and is home to many small-scale coffee farms. The local population is primarily engaged in coffee farming and related activities. The town has a warm and friendly atmosphere, with a strong sense of community among its residents.
The town is popular for its coffee festivals, where visitors can learn about the local coffee culture and sample some of the best coffee in the region.
More About Our Coffee
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What is Shade-Grown Coffee?
Shade-grown coffee is a method of cultivation where coffee plants are grown under a canopy of native trees and other plants, rather than in full sun. This method mimics the natural ecosystem of the coffee plant's native environment, providing a habitat for a variety of wildlife and preserving the biodiversity of the surrounding area. The use of shade also helps to protect the coffee plants from the harsh sun, reducing water loss and the need for chemical fertilizers. Additionally, the presence of other plants and trees helps to reduce soil erosion and improve soil health. Shade-grown coffee is not only better for the environment, but it also results in a superior taste, with beans that are known for their complexity, acidity and aroma.
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What is Arabica Coffee?
Arabica coffee is a type of coffee plant that produces beans that are considered to be of higher quality than those of the other commercially grown species, called Robusta. Arabica beans are known for their complex flavors and aromas, which can include notes of fruit, chocolate, and nuts. Arabica coffee plants are also known for their milder and less bitter taste than robusta. Arabica coffee plants also require specific conditions to grow, such as higher altitude, milder temperatures, and more rainfall. These conditions contribute to the unique and refined flavor profile of Arabica beans. Additionally, Arabica plants are more delicate and less resistant to pests and diseases, which means they are less likely to be treated with pesticides, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
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What is Sun-Dried Coffee?
Natural sun-dried coffee is a method of processing coffee beans where the freshly picked cherries are spread out on large patios or raised beds to dry in the sun. This method eliminates the need for mechanical dryers, which can consume large amounts of energy and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, natural sun-drying allows the coffee cherries to dry slowly and evenly, preserving their unique flavors and aromas. This method also helps to reduce water consumption during the drying process. Furthermore, Natural sun-dried coffee is considered to be a better for the environment as the beans are dried in the sun on raised beds or patios, the beans are not exposed to the ground and thus it reduces the risk of contamination by bacteria, fungi or other microorganisms that could spoil the coffee.