Hobbitenango

Hobbitenango occupies a ridge in the hills above Antigua and is a commercial themed attraction rather than anything historic: rounded doors and grass-roofed cottages built in a fantasy idiom, restaurants, a giant hand-shaped viewing platform, swings hung over the drop, archery, axe throwing and a set of photo points arranged to take in the volcanoes across the valley. It opened in the middle of the last decade and has grown steadily. What it does have is the position: the ridge looks straight across at Agua, Fuego and Acatenango, and on a clear day Fuego can be seen erupting from the terrace. Accommodation on site allows staying for sunrise.

What to look for

• Volcano views from the ridge - Agua, Fuego and Acatenango across the valley.
• Fantasy cottages and doors - the themed buildings the park is built around.
• The viewing platform and swings - the photo points over the drop.
• Fuego erupting on clear days - the activity visible from the terrace.

When to go

November to April in the dry season, when the volcanoes are visible. Half a day. Book ahead at weekends; it fills. Mornings are clearest for views.

Practical notes

It is an entirely commercial attraction with tickets, queues and paid extras, and it is not to everyone's taste. The track up is rough and needs a pickup. Cloud frequently removes the views the visit depends on. Weekends are very crowded.

Nearby

Antigua is south-west; the volcano chain lies south.

Key facts