La Piedra Viewpoint Guide
La Piedra del Peñol: Climb to Unforgettable Views Guide
Prepare to be amazed by La Piedra del Peñol, also known as El Peñol Rock, a colossal monolith rising dramatically from the landscape near Guatapé. This isn't just a rock; it's an experience! Imagine scaling a giant stone staircase built into a crack in the rock, each step bringing you closer to panoramic views that will leave you breathless. It's a must-see for anyone visiting the Medellín region and promises an adventure you won't soon forget. The history of La Piedra is intertwined with the indigenous Tahamíes people, who worshipped the rock long before the arrival of the Spanish. In modern times, the rock remained largely untouched until the 1950s when locals began to appreciate its potential as a tourist attraction. The construction of the staircase, a feat of engineering in itself, began in 1954 and was completed several years later. A quirky detail: you'll notice a large "GI" painted on the side of the rock. This was intended to spell "Guatapé," but construction was halted due to disagreements with the neighboring town of El Peñol, who also claimed the rock as their own. The main activity, of course, is climbing the 740 steps to the top! Don't worry, there are plenty of places to stop and catch your breath along the way, and the views just keep getting better. Once at the summit, you'll be rewarded with a 360-degree vista of the stunning lake district, a maze of emerald green islands and shimmering blue waters. There are also souvenir shops and restaurants at the top where you can grab a refreshing drink or a bite to eat while soaking in the scenery. Be sure to try an arepa, a traditional corn cake, a popular snack in the region.
Transportation
From Medellín, take a bus from the Terminal del Norte (North Terminal) to Guatapé. Several bus companies offer this route, and the journey takes approximately 2-3 hours. Once in Guatapé, you can take a tuk-tuk or a shared jeep (moto-ratón) to La Piedra, which is about a 10-15 minute ride. Alternatively, you can take a bus directly from Medellín to El Peñol, which is closer to the rock, and then take a short tuk-tuk ride.