Up the hill from Envigado, hidden in a small bend in the road, is the entrance to Mahalo. A small, unassuming sign marks the driveway. As you pass through the gate and up the dirt road, to the broken cement blocks in front of a converted house, you wonder, “What exactly am I in for tonight?”
The truth is, you’re in for an experience unlike any other in Medellin. Mahalo was once just a house, where the owner and his friends would lounge and enjoy the panoramic view of Envigado. One night, they had the idea to turn it into a bar…not an unusual idea these days. Now Mahalo is home to a great little climbing wall, a perfectly balanced pool table, and a dirt track for mountain bikes with jumps and drops that are the best that I have ever seen in Antioquia. This is where extreme sports enthusiasts find themselves, every day.
In addition to the many rooms, the beautiful porch, and awesome young in-house DJ, there is a fireplace and lounge seating, too. Oh, and don’t forget the climbing room. That’s right, an entire room lined with climbing walls…including the ceiling, and a padded floor for safety. With super cheep drinks and even themed rooms to crash in if you find you’ve had a few too many, Mahalo is simply a cool place.
Post by Holly. Currently living in Medellin, Holly is getting to know the Colombian culture through music, language, and base jumping!
See, this is the kind of post that needs photographs. It sounds wonderful, but what does Mahalo look like?
-Baron
Keys To Photography
Yes… I know, but unfortunately, not only had my camera died, but I was completely surprised that I was going there.
Holly great post!!! These are the kinds of things I am looking for. I am moving to Medellin in July to teach high school chemistry. Super excited can’t wait. I paraglide, mountain bike and climb so a place like Mahalo is my kind of place. Thanks for the heads up.
Hey Chris,
Sounds like you’ve got an exciting 2010 in the works. Do you know how long you plan to teach in Medellin?
Thanks for reading!
really great post
Dave,
My initial contract is for 2 years. And yes I imagine it is going to be very exciting, can’t wait.