Varadero
Varadero is famous for its almost uninterrupted powder white beaches which stretch along an 18 kilometre peninsula and is thoughtfully developed with a number of beautifully designed properties. Originally settled by the Spaniards in the 16th century, it was not until the late 1800s that the area began to be developed for local tourism and has been attracting visitors ever since.
Places to Visit
Parque Josone
This beautiful park is laid out around an old mansion, privately owned before the Revolution. Also in the grounds are 3 restaurants, several open air bars, a bowling alley, swimming pool and rowing boats for rent on the lake.
Municipal Museum
The old centre of Varadero has no significant historical monuments, although the municipal museum is housed in a charming wooden chalet characteristic of the style imported from the US in the early 1900s. The museum recounts the history of Varadero and also contains a collection of Indian handicrafts.
Dupont Mansion
Built in 1929 by US businessman Alfred Irenee DuPont, this hacienda-style mansion is set on Varadero's highest promontory with spectacular views down the peninsula and now houses private dining rooms and a few exclusive bedrooms. Fitted with Italian marble flooring and sumptuous antiques, it is well worth a visit.
Punta Hicacos
Punta Hicacos is a nature reserve with various secluded beaches and a large natural lagoon. You can also visit several caves including the Cueva de Ambrosio, which contains Pre-Colombian rock paintings.
Golf club
Part of the Las Americas Complex, this attractive 18 hole Par 72 links course offers beautiful views over the sea. Golf carts, clubs and caddies are all available for hire and classes are also offered. Reservations can be made through your hotel.
Marinas
Varadero’s marinas offer a variety of water-based activities. The resort is popular with divers due to the large number of sites and calm waters. Snorkelling is also available, as are deep sea fishing trips and catamaran cruises to desert islands off the coast. The 'Varasub' excursion consists of a boat trip to the offshore reef where you can observe the amazing underwater sealife through portholes in the lower part of the ship.
Places to Eat
As Cuba’s leading beach resort, Varadero offers a range of restaurants ranging from simple pizzerias to the utmost elegance.
Xanadu Mansion
Located in the former Dupont mansion, this restaurant serves excellent seafood and international cuisine. You can choose to dine in the elegantly furnished rooms inside or on the terrace overlooking the sea.
Antiguedades
Sited on the edge of the lovely Josone park, this is a small sophisticated restaurant serving a variety of fare including excellent seafood.
La Barbacoa
Located in downtown Varadero, this one of the town's smartest and most popular restaurants serving particularly good chargrilled meals.
El Aljibe
Centrally located, this is a good choice for those wanting to savour Creole food cooked in a variety of ways, particularly chicken.
Nightlife
All our hotels offer a full programme of entertainment throughout the day and at night, but if you wish to venture into town, there are a number of bars and nightclubs, amongst them:
Nightclubs
The most popular clubs are La Rumba, where entrance covers drinks all night; La Cueva del Pirata, a disco-cabaret housed in a natural cave; and El Kastillito Club and La Patana in Varadero town.
Tropicana
This is an excellent show worthy of its ‘big brother’ in Havana and features the cream of Cuba’s performers. A flamboyant spectacle reflecting the heydays of the 1950s, the exotic costumes and wonderful choreography make this show an unforgettable experience.
Bar Mirador
Reached by a narrow little winding staircase at the very top of Casa Du Pont, this atmospheric bar, previously a ballroom, affords spectacular views down the coastline. Relax amongst its beautiful rococo features and enjoy a cool drink after the climb!
