Atacama to Paine Day 13

After a lie in and liesurely breakfast we headed for the metro in Santiago. We were heading for Bellavista district and from there up to the statue of the Virgin at Cerro San Cristobal. The metro is cheap, quick and efficient and after half a dozen stations we were at our destination.



Bellavista is a smart suburb of the city. The houses are large, gated and well maintained, it is obviously very weathy. There are numerous pieces of scupture dotted around with nice grass walkways beside the river. We walked through on our way to the Metropolitan City Park. As we came closer we started to see mountain bikes and runners. The park is the place to be seen and being Saturday it was busy.



We made our way through the park to catch the cable car to take us to the top of the hill where the Virgin's statue is located. The cable car ran for about a mile. The views got better and better and within 10 minutes we were at the top.










This is the location that Pope John Paul II addressed the Chilean people on the 1st April 1987. There is a large statue at the top with great views of the city all around. It is an obvious place of worship for the locals as there is an area where candles are lit and prays are offered to the Virgin.



There is a lovely little church located just below the statue which has unusual stone freezes carved onto the walls, depicting scenes from Christ's life. Just below the church there is a path that leads to the top of a vanicular that takes you down to the city below.




We took ride on this and made our way liesurely back to the metro and then back to our hotel. On the way out of the station there was a lovely reflected image of a telecommunication tower in one of the modern office blocks, George and I couldn't resist picture!




Across the road was a small Easter Island stone head. As we were missing out on the Easter Island extension, we just had to get some pictures.




From there it was back to the hotel to catch up on some R & R before we start our 16 hour flight back to London via Madrid. As I sit and type this it's 31 degrees in Santiago - only 8 in London ... where's my fleece!

It's been a great trip, certainly full of contrasts, both in scenery and weather. The country is very beautiful. Wonderful wildlife and friendly people. For those seeking wilderness at its best Chile is a must.