Varadero

Travellers seeking long sandy beaches surrounded by palm trees and lapped by turquoise waves, will definitely find what they are looking for in Cuba. Located just 145 kilometres off the tip of Florida, this island is known for its turbulent history, which saw many of its citizens flee from a communist revolution over 60 years ago. People from the United States were not allowed to travel to the island for several decades, but the restrictions are being lifted as the two countries improve their relationship. US citizens are now free to travel to Cuba. These travellers can now discover what the rest of the world has known for a long time: that the island is a world-class beach destination. And this is more than evident in Varadero, a community of resorts located on the Hicacos Peninsula. Some of the best all-inclusive hotels in Cuba are located on this thin stretch of land between the Straits of Florida and the Bay of Cárdenas. Tourists will find more than 20 kilometres of idyllic beaches where they can sunbathe and enjoy themselves on the fine white sand next to the sea. The hotels in Varadero, Cuba, are reached easily from Juan Gualberto Gomez International Airport, but still offer all the tranquillity and isolation expected by the most discerning guests.

Hotels in Varadero, Cuba, offer first-class amenities such as naturally shaped pools, surrounded by sun loungers where visitors can relax with a glass of rum, a daiquiri or a mojito. Restaurants offer traditional Cuban dishes with beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes, gardens and sea. Friendly hotel staff will assist guests with water sports such as kayaking, sailing and windsurfing.Golf enthusiasts will find a first-class course on the peninsula. Families with young children will enjoy the children's activities and games rooms offered by the all-inclusive hotels in Cuba. Some hotels have business facilities such as conference rooms and Wi-Fi. Spas, gyms and sports such as volleyball and tennis complete the experience.

Coral Beach is a hotspot for divers as it offers fabulous coral formations, brightly coloured fish and sea turtles. The gentle waves and an average temperature of 25 degrees make Varadero the ideal place for all divers, both experienced and beginners. If guests travel a little further afield, they can learn about the island’s ecology at Varahicacos Nature Reserve. Located at the most easterly point of the peninsula, the reserve contains a variety of footpaths and an ancient burial cave with human remains dating back 2,500 years. History-lovers can stroll around the city of Varadero and enjoy the elegant wooden houses with their intricate wrap-around verandas. A great example is the Municipal Museum of Varadero, which features exhibitions of period furniture. A leisurely stroll around Josone Park can be complemented by hiring a pedalo or rowing boat to explore the large lake. These gardens were originally created by the wealthy owners of a rum distillery and remained private for some time. However, the land was expropriated for public use during the revolution in the 1950s.