“The most beautiful land that human eyes have ever seen” exclaimed Christopher Columbus in 1492 when he spotted the coast of Holguín.
Spectacular beaches, coral barrier reef over six kilometres long, rolling hills, steep mountains, museums, art gallery and historic squares are just a few of the attractions in this surprising province on the north coast of Cuba.
Places you must see:
Guardalavaca Beach: An hour by car from the city of Holguín, this beach is divided into three exclusive and stunning areas of turquoise waters, golden sand and lagoons: Pesquero Beach, Esmeralda Beach and Guardalavaca.
Cayo Naranjo Dolphinarium: An incredible aquarium in the sea with shows and the chance to swim with dolphins! It can only be reached by catamaran and boats from the nearby coast. The only place in the world where bottlenose dolphins reproduce in captivity.
Naranjo Bay Natural Park: Butterflies, birds, land iguanas, a thousand hectares of woodlands, mangroves, coastal swamps and endemic trees. It’s ideal for eco-tourism walks! It also offers yacht trips, a golf training course and seafood and creole restaurants.
Chorro de Maíta: First aboriginal burial ground of potter farmers found in Cuba. There is evidence here of all the forms of burial found not just in the country, but in all the Caribbean. A myriad of green, ochre and blue tones fill the landscape emphasising the sea, palm trees and mountains.
Loma de la Cruz: Historic and colonial archaeological monument 261 metres above sea level. Its name comes from a wooden cross (cruz) standing on the highest hill (loma) sheltering the city. You can climb 458 steps to get to the top but even though there are rest places, don’t attempt this if you’re not in good physical shape! We recommend the restaurant perched on the top from where you can admire the city of Holguín.
May Romerias: Cubans love their festivals! And if you travel to Cuba in May, you’ll get a chance to take part in this local pilgrimage with a tradition dating back 20 years. For almost a week, thousands of people gather together to celebrate a blend of culture, music, rites and history that starts with a procession crossing the city from the modern district to the historic centre and ends with the ascent to the Loma de la Cruz.
ParadisusRío de Oro Resort & Spa: “The must”. After an adrenaline-fuelled day you have every right to spoil yourself at one of the best hotels in Cuba affording a combination of luxury and nature. Outdoor palapas, beautiful garden areas, wooded and tropical parks, beaches with extremely fine white sand and one of the most beautiful coral
