Secret Cuba

Our Highlights:

• Relax on the idyllic island of Cayo Levisa.
• Explore the Pinar del Rio province, one of Cuba's most picturesque states.
• Fantastic bird watching in the forests of Soroa National Park.

Located west of Havana, the picturesque tobacco growing area of Pinar del Rio is one of Cuba's most spectacular provinces and still remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism. Our holiday is based at the Villa Soroa, deep in the heart of a biosphere reserve amidst mountainous lush forest and close to a tumbling waterfall. Then continue through the fertile landscape of rural Cuba to the coast for a short boat ride to the tiny island of Cayo Levisa, with its pretty beaches and relaxed atmosphere.

Time in Soroa will be spent enjoying gentle walks and relaxing amidst this breathtaking scenery. The park is renowned for its rich flora, with many species of trees, shrubs, wild orchids and ferns. Its fauna includes one of the smallest frogs in the world, and around 70 species of birds have been reported, many of which are endemic. There is also a number of fascinating historical and cultural landmarks, including a number of restored mansions in the nearby coffee plantations. During your stay we include an introductory walk into the forest with the resident naturalist, a tour to La Moka to visit an old coffee plantation and the quaint art community of Las Terrazas, a sustainable development project with open studios, woodworking and pottery workshops. We also offer an optional excursion to the spectacular scenery of the Vinales valley, one of Cuba’s most magnificent settings. Declared a World Heritage site in 1999, these limestone bulbous hills called Mogotes rise above the fertile tobacco valley below and are home to an array of bird species and pine forest.

The tiny island of Cayo Levisa lies off the northwest coast of Cuba, and is enveloped by thick jungles of tropical mangrove and bordered by fabulous white beaches. Enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the warm waters or simply sway in a hammock in the shade of a palm tree. Spend time browsing around the small shop, having a cool drink in the beachfront bar or perhaps trying some of the fresh seafood served in the restaurant. The island is remote and accessible only by a twice daily boat, the electricity can occasionally falter, but with simple rooms set close to the beach the atmosphere is idyllic.

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