El Peñon de Guatapé

In the 1970s, a tract of over 1,482 acres was flooded to create a motor for a massive hydroelectric project. A low-lying village was submerged under this new lake, and Medellín's most popular weekend getaway was created, with luxurious holiday homes popping up here and there on newly created islands. Overlooking this almost alpine vista is a colossal rock monolith, estimated to weigh some 10 million tons and towering 650 feet above ground level. Built into a crack on one side is a tortuous flight of 650 stairs that take you to the top and its famous view. Entrance costs 10,000 pesos.

The view is best in the morning, so if time allows, spend a night in the charming colonial village of Guatapé, also known as El Pueblo de Zócalos, which refers to the brightly colored houses around town. The basic but charming Casa Encuentro (casaencuentro.co) is a house on the lake just a couple of minutes' walk from town, and the staff can organize every aspect of your trip from Medellín. Or for a true getaway, stay at the magical Pietra Santa (www.hotelpietrasanta.com.co), whose rooms are curtained, floating decks about a 30-minute boat ride away from town.

For a day trip, leave the city early and head straight to the rock. Afterwards, head into town to explore and grab a coffee at one of the cafés dotting the village. Buses leave Medellín hourly and take about two hours; avoid weekends, when the town becomes crowded and prices go up.