In a cable car, overlooking Caracas, Venezuela, September 2023

On 17 September 2023, together with Leo, we decided to spend the day exploring the natural beauty of Caracas with a hike in the stunning Ávila Hills. We took the teleférico (cable car) to reach the top, an iconic way to see the sprawling city below. The journey up was an adventure in itself, offering incredible panoramic views of Caracas and the surrounding landscape.

Ávila Hills – A Bird’s Eye View of Caracas

The Ávila Hills are one of the most prominent features of Caracas. Rising over 2,000 metres above the city, these hills are part of the Ávila National Park and are a popular escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. As we ascended in the cable car, we were treated to breathtaking views of Caracas, the Caribbean Sea, and the nearby mountains.

Once we reached the top, we took some time to admire the panoramic views. The city below appeared smaller, almost like a miniature, and the surrounding mountains were awe-inspiring. We visited the hotel on the hill, which offers stunning views of the area, before walking around to explore more of the natural beauty of the hills.

The area is full of wildlife and lush vegetation, and we enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, away from the noise of the city. The air was fresher, the nature was calming, and it felt like we had stepped into another world. We hiked through various nature trails, taking in the beauty of the landscape, which offered everything from tropical forests to rocky terrain.

El Recreo Parish – A Peaceful Stop

Our hike took us to El Recreo Parish, a neighbourhood at the foot of the hills. This area is known for its quaint charm and residential atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from the busy centre of Caracas. As we walked through the area, we admired the local architecture and stopped for a moment to appreciate the local life.

San Antonio de Galipan – A Charming Village

From El Recreo, we made our way to San Antonio de Galipan, a small mountain village nestled in the Ávila mountains. The village is a hidden gem, known for its picturesque streets, colourful houses, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It felt like stepping back in time, with its old-world charm and rustic cobblestone paths.

The village is famous for its local produce, particularly fruit and cheese, and as we walked through the streets, we had the chance to visit local shops and chat with the villagers. The village’s peaceful atmosphere was contagious, and we could feel the slower pace of life here compared to the vibrant city below.

After exploring the village, we stopped for lunch at a charming local restaurant. The meal was delicious—traditional Venezuelan food, paired with a glass of local wine. It was the perfect way to relax after a long hike and enjoy the mountain air. We spent some time sitting in the village square, chatting and soaking in the surroundings.

A Wonderful Day

The day was both tiring and incredibly rewarding. Hiking in the Ávila Hills and visiting San Antonio de Galipan gave us a deeper connection to Venezuela’s natural beauty and mountain culture. It was a wonderful opportunity to spend time with Leo, and it also allowed us to experience a part of Caracas and its surrounding areas that many people miss. The tranquil atmosphere of San Antonio de Galipan was the perfect end to a truly memorable day.

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