On our last day in Medellín we did a day trip out to the local tourist attraction, El Peñol. Sometimes signing up with a tour group is simply the most effective way of seeing some sights, this was one of those times.
The two hour drive out to El Peñol was broken up with a short stop and walk around the village of Marinilla. Karen met some new friends in the town centre. Friendly fellows who were happy to have their photo taken.As you near Guatape and El Peñol comes into view it is quite an impressive sight. Apparently the rock is on private property and they certainly haven’t missed any opportunity to monetize the property. It’s 18,000 pesos ($7CDN) to climb the rock. A very good deal.Lots of restaurants and souvenir shops at the bottom of the rock. However the rock and unique stairs going up the middle certainly dominate everything else.
Due to a hydro electric project down stream from Guatape the entire region is a water enthusiasts dream. Almost endless shoreline for properties and a boundless opportunity to enjoy the water.
Once you have ascended the more than 720 steps you are rewarded with a phenomenal view.At the top we tried the local favourite refreshment. Cerveza Michelada con Mango, beer with mango and a salted rim. Tried it, won’t need to try it again.On the trip up and down you cannot help but admire the ingenuity that went into the construction of the staircases. The way they fit them into the natural opening in the rock with a minimum of impact is amazing.
Once we were finished with El Peñol we headed into Guatape for a couple of hours. Without a doubt this is a town that has taken the changes that came with the hydro electric project and the presence of the rock to create a tourist mecca.
The majority of the homes and businesses in town have colourful paintings on the exterior walls, many telling the story of the family or the business. Keep an eye on my instagram page for more images from the town. @peterpecksen
For 79,000 Colombian Pesos ($30CDN) this is a trip/tour well worth taking. The included breakfast and lunch allowed you to try some local flavour and support some of the local businesses. If you are ever in Medellín make sure you take it in. Thank you to Marc and Johanna for the recommendation.
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