What do we know about Cayo Santa María apart from the marvelous resorts or the glorious beach? Not much really. Although the place is well-known for its all-year-round summer benefits, the truth is this wonderful destination in the middle of the Island, invite us on vacations by the hand of nature. From hotels in the region you can expand your holiday espectrum by booking exclusive programs at Gaviota Tours sales desks. All sorts of excursions compose this travel agency’s tour catalogue but today I’d like to recommend two of them devoted to the nature enthusiast:
Say yes to the mountain
This tour begins early in the morning and carries slightly intense physical activity. Water, light clothes and shoes are highly recommended. An air conditioned bus will pick you up at 7.30 am to arrive in Guanayara, a beautiful natural park, which is part of the Topes de Collantes Protected Natural Landscape. As you travel by truck down the mountain to the natural trail “Centinelas del Rio Melodioso” you will admire the awesome Waterfall “El Rocio”.
The path can be made by walking or across the river. The last option is maybe a little difficult but a lot more enjoyable. The meeting point would be then the natural pool “El Venado”, perfect to take a bath and continue the path to the restaurant La Gallega to get the final reward: a tasty lunch! Drop off in the hotel is around 20.30. Don’t forget your camera!
Overnight in Topes de Collantes
Begin the first day of this exciting journey at 7.30 am traveling to Trinidad with a guided sightseeing that will showcase the city’s most famous landmarks like the Iznaga Tower and Casa del Alfarero. The day continues with lunch and a visit to a local museum followed by free time around the historical center. Enjoy afterwards a scenic drive to Topes de Collantes and spend the night in the hotel “Los Helechos“, a warm facility surrounded by nature.
The second day of the trip starts with breakfast and check-out inthe hotel. Then, you will arrive to the natural park “El Cubano” to begin an exciting hike through the trail “Huellas de la historia” (History’s Footprints) discovering the splendid Cuban nature, endemic birds, natural pools and other highlights of the zone. Before returning to the hotel, you will enjoy a delicious lunch to finish the tour. Drop off in the hotel is around 17.00. Proper shoes and outfit are recommended.
I’ve been out there in these mountains, I’ve done the hiking and walked the trails. I’ve had more than a sip of my beautiful Cuba and I can assure you, there are few things in this world more revealing or illuminating than the thrill of being captivated at first sight by these mountains. Nothing is worth more than good traveling. This is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Seize it today!
