Guatapé & El Peñol
★★★ Piedra del Peñol (La Piedra)
The Piedra del Peñol is a 220-meter-high granite monolith that rises like a giant boulder from a surreal lake landscape. 740 steps lead up a masonry staircase on the outside of the rock — a sweaty but absolutely rewarding challenge.
At the top, you are greeted by a 360° panorama that is among the most spectacular in South America: A labyrinth of blue-green lakes and green islands stretches to the horizon. The Embalse del Peñol-Guatapé reservoir was created in the 1970s, forming this unreal landscape. In clear weather, you can see all the way to Medellín.
12 km before Guatapé. Admission: 25,000 COP (6€). Daily 8:00–18:00. Ascent: 20–30 min. (for medium fitness level). At the top: Snacks, drinks, and viewing platform.
★★★ Guatapé (Pueblo de los Zócalos)
The village of Guatapé is one of the most colorful in Colombia. Every house is adorned with colorful zócalos (relief-like baseboards) depicting everyday scenes, animals, or symbols. The tradition began in the 19th century and became a competition: Today, every homeowner outdoes themselves with ever more elaborate motifs.
The Malecón by the lake is the perfect waterfront promenade: colorful stairs (Escalinatas), restaurants, boat tours on the reservoir. A boat tour (50,000 COP / 12€, 2h) shows the islands, the sunken church of El Peñol (whose cross rises from the lake at low water levels), and the holiday homes of the wealthy Paisas — including allegedly the former estate of Pablo Escobar.
Guatapé, 80 km east of Medellín. Bus from Terminal del Norte (2h, 16,000 COP / 4€). Feasible as a day trip, but an overnight stay is worthwhile for the relaxed evening atmosphere.
