Bathed by the tropical sun of the Cuban province of Holguín there is true Eden of blue turquoise waters. It is in fact, the world known Guardalavaca beach, which every year welcomes more than 250 thousand tourists, to the joy of the municipality of Banes.
The beach has become one of the most important tourist spot of the island, not in vain celebrity. Fine white sands, crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation invite you to spend the summer season there.
But while the surrounding beauty leaves no-one indifferent, its name is not so either. It is said that owes it to a legend that dates back to the times of colonization, and it is said that it was one of the first places that Christopher Columbus set foot in on his voyage to the New World, comparing it to paradise.
The beach served as a refuge for pirates, and upon sighting it, the natives shouted: Guardalavaca (Hide away the cow), as a warning sign to protect their livestock. The exclamation became so common that the paradisiacal Cuban enclave was finally baptized like that.
The boom of tourism to Guardalavaca began at the end of the 20th century, with reasons enough for such a thing. But beyond its sea, the area has other attractions such as Bahía Naranjo Natural Park, home to more than 600 species of plants and a rich variety of fauna.
So it works as a good complement to the beach experience, combining it with walks, boat rides and swimming with dolphins.
For those looking for a deeper connection with the local culture, the village of Yaguajay, located to the south, is a must-see stop. In terms of history, it has the Camilo Cienfuegos National Museum, while Rancho Querete offers natural pools surrounded by a tropical forest.
Staying in this region is not difficult either, given the variety of first-class hotels on offer. From the iconic Hotel Club Amigo Atlántico to luxury resorts such as the Paradisus Rio de Oro Hotel and the Iberostar Selection, all the options allow you to find total harmony with the environment and create the best memories of the summer.
With information from Excelencias Cuba / Translated by Radio Angulo
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