If you want to relax on one of the finest beaches in the Caribbean, you need look no further than Varadero, the largest beach resort in Cuba. This long stretch of golden sand is simply stunning, and the numerous resort hotels in Varadero will leave you spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting your accommodation.
It can be tempting to do nothing more than lie on the sand during a Varadero holiday, and while the beach itself is likely to remain the main focus of your trip, it is hardly the only thing to do in and around the resort.
So if you'd like to stray beyond the sun loungers and parasols, here are five exciting experiences to be had whilst on a holiday to Varadero...
Go diving in the tropical waters
The Cuban coast is a paradise for scuba divers. The warm clear waters provide ideal year round conditions for diving, and the thick coral reefs and shoals of tropical fish are a wonder to explore. There are numerous dive centres in around the resort, and many of Varadero's hotels feature their own dedicated diving centres. Beginners can get qualified quickly and relatively cheaply, so holidays to Varadero are the ideal time to learn how to dive.
Take a day trip to Havana
No holiday in Cuba is complete without a trip to Havana. The Cuban capital is filled with spectacular colonial architecture, and the vibrant blend of African, Caribbean and Spanish cultures make it a truly unforgettable place to visit. It can be visited in a single day from Varadero, but to explore the capital at leisure, it is perhaps best to stay in Havana before or after your holiday to Varadero.
Play a round of golf at the Varadero Golf Club
Golfers on holidays to Varadero don't need to let their game get rusty - Cuba's only 18 hole golf course is located at the Xanadu mansion just next to the resort. Just because it is the only golf course in Cuba doesn't mean they've let the quality slip; this championship level coastal course is a delight to look upon and a wonder to play, offering stunning sea views and a challenging round of golf.
Enjoy a candlelit dinner at La Gruta del Vino
Many of the hotels in Varadero offer all inclusive deals, but you should stray outside of your hotel for the occasional meal in one of the resort's many fine restaurants. La Gruta del Vino in Josone Park is perhaps the most romantic and characterful place for a meal in Varadero. This small and intimate restaurant, situated in a cave alongside a lake, is a truly unique eatery, and the cuisine matches the appearance - massive, perfectly cooked seafood dishes and a truly outstanding wine selection makes this one of the best restaurants in Varadero.
Take a tour of Cardenas by horse drawn carriage
The picturesque city of Cardenas is only a short distance from Varadero, and is a great place for a daytrip. The best way to get around is by horse drawn carriage, from which you can admire the fine architecture of the city. Don't miss out on the Parque Colon, where the Cuban national flag was flown for the first time. Other highlights include a striking bronze statue of Colombus, and the Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepcion.
The beach may be your main port of call on a holiday to Varadero, but any of these activities can be a great way to break up your holiday an experience a little more of the fascinating Cuban culture...an attraction at least as appealing as the beach!
Emma Lelliott is the general manager of Captivating Cuba, an independent specialist in luxury holidays to Cuba. With offices in Havana and the UK, Captivating Cuba can help you tailor-make the perfect Varadero holiday.
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