If someone asked you to describe Cuba in just a few words, it might be tempting to talk about its cigars, rum and long and complex political history. But all stereotypes aside, Cuba is a country steeped in everything that makes for a beautiful holiday destination: traditional architecture, a lively arts scene, excellent food and drink and astonishing natural beauty. Here are just eight of the country’s most stunning scenery spots.
Old Havana
Photo Credit: Gareth Williams
Nestled in the heart of the country’s capital is UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Havana. With its cobbled streets, brightly coloured building fronts and traditional architecture, including the Baroque-built Catedral de San Cristobal, Old Havana stands today as a perfectly preserved slice of the past, best explored on foot.
Varadero
Photo Credit: Ian Mackenzie
For the most stunning beaches in the country, travel to Varadero, which is situated uniquely on a long, narrow peninsula. Home to white sand beaches, turquoise waters, a nature reserve and two caves, Varadero is the beach destination that has it all.
Parque Nacional Vinales
Photo Credit: SF Brit
Located in the Sierra de los Organos, this national park covers a large valley lined by steep limestone cliffs and is home to agricultural areas where fruit, vegetables and tobacco are grown. Hiking and horseback riding are the best ways to explore the area, and the park is easily accessible for a day trip from Havana.
Baracoa
Photo Credit: Matteo Artizzu
Baracoa is the oldest city in Cuba, founded in 1511 and largely cut off from the rest of the country until the 1960s, when the La Farola highway was built. Today, Baracoa maintains its remote feel, but is a popular tourist destination for visitors wanting to bask in its old world charm and stunning natural beauty.
Castillo del Morro
Photo Credit: Adam Jones
Nowhere is the impressive military history of Cuba made more evident than in the country’s formidable stone fortresses, and Castillo de San Pedro del Morro is the best of them. The fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can be found guarding the Bay of Santiago, around ten kilometers southwest of the city of Santiago de Cuba.
Peninsula de Zapata
Photo Credit: Anthony Grognuz
Nature lovers will adore the variety, beauty and tranquility of this region of the country. For a truly immersive experience, visit the wetlands – known affectionately as the Zapata Swamp – home to around 150 species of bird and predators such as crocodiles.
Plaza de la Revolucion
Photo Credit: Amaury Henderick
No visit to Cuba would be complete without a trip to a key historical landmark such as Havana’s Plaza de Revolucion and its awe-inspiring Jose Marti Memorial tower and museum. Not only does the tower offer sweeping views of the capital, but the whole square stands as a reminder of the country’s controversial and stirring history (Castro delivered many of his famous speeches here).
The Malecon
Photo Credit: Doug Wheller
Havana’s famous seafront promenade was built in the 1900s and stretches seven kilometers from Old Havana to the business district. With its pastel fronts, architectural variety and dramatic sea views, the Malecon is the perfect place for a daytime or evening stroll.
So what are you waiting for? Start dreaming of making the trip to Cuba and before you know it, you’ll be planning and then packing for travel to this wonderful country.
Images taken from Gareth Williams, Ian Mackenzie, SF Brit, Matteo Artizzu, Adam Jones, Anthony Grognuz, Ronie Nicolas, Doug Wheller, used under the Creative Commons license.
For more information about Cuba, check out my stories about Meeting the Locals in Cienfuegos!
