Los Jazmines
The Valley of Vinales offers some of Cuba's most dramatic natural landscape in the world's best tobacco growing region.
Los Jazmines is a great option for accommodation in this area; set high up on a hill, all its rooms boast lovely views over the hillocks and tobacco plantations.
The majority of the rooms are housed in two, three storey buildings and the rest are located in cabinitas situated in a row heading down the hillside from the swimming pool. Each room features air-conditioning, ensuite bathrooms and French doors opening up onto a small balcony.
Los Jazmines is surrounded by beautiful gardens and its pool looks out over the valley providing the perfect place to relax after exploring the local area. The hotel has its own restaurant, small shop and concierge who can arrange all manner of activities in the Vinales region such as horse riding, mountain biking, tours of the tobacco fields and cave systems and much more.
Why We Love It
Vinales town itself is very small with a village feel, consisting mostly of single-storey wooden houses, but it's worthwhile visiting for dinner one evening.
Cayo Levisa Hotel
Nestled on the beach, this fantastic all-inclusive hotel offers an authentic island life experience. The hotel is the lone accommodation on Cayo Levisa, an islet off Cuba's north-western shore, only accessible by a 35-minute boat ride with two daily departures. This piece of paradise is fantastic for beach-lovers, nature-lovers and dive-lovers, as it's also a prime snorkel and scuba destination.
There are a total of 56 bungalows, all featuring extraordinary views and their own private verandas, situated approximately a kilometre from the beach where you can swim in the clear turquoise water away from any urban noise or stress. Rooms also offer air-conditioning, fridges, minibars and TV's. The hotel also offers a small a la carte restaurant that serves daily, fresh seafood and typical Cuban dishes. There is also a casual restaurant situated on the beach, for a more relaxed dining experience.
There are 21 dive sites on the wonderful coral reef. You'll be able to snorkel or dive with sponges, black coral and tropical fish until your heart's content whilst wreck divers will love exploring the shipwrecks from the 17th and 18th century that sit off shore.
Cayo Levisa Hotel also offers massage services and hammocks to rent, meaning you will be able to fully unwind and let the sea and warm air let your mind rest. And when you aren't relaxing you will be able to explore the island by foot and feel the sand between your toes.
Why We Love It
Being the only accommodation option on the islet means a stay here fells like you've truly found a private slice of paradise.