THE WESTERN FLY-DRIVE ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Conde de Villanueva

This charming 9-room hotel was the mansion of Claudio Martínez de Pinillos, the Villanueva Count. It is located right at the historical heart of the city, surrounded by squares of singular attractiveness, museums and other facilities. Its homely atmosphere, breezy inner courtyard, spacious corridors and beautiful stained-glass windows combine to create an ambience of authentic colonial beauty, which perfectly harmonises with the most modern comfort. The hotel has very cosy and well-appointed rooms, named after famous Cuban tobacco-growing regions.

Our Opinion: A cool haven where you can enjoy the best Mojitos in Havana.

Los Jazmines

Situated on the edge of the valley, this hotel has stunning views over the fertile plains where the rich green tobacco leaves sway in the breeze. All 62 colonial style rooms have private bathroom and the majority have a view. Facilities include buffet restaurant, a la carte restaurants, 2 bars, shops, swimming pools (large pool overlooking the valley), massage, physiotherapy and horseriding. A very comfortable base.

Our Opinion: The best views in Cuba (not just us - Conde Nast say so too).

Moka Eco-Lodge

The 20 rooms in Moka are a delight. They are very simply but tastefully designed with wooden shutters, beautiful tile work and lovely terracotta pottery. All rooms are large, bright and airy with air-conditioning, TV, a fantastic balcony and a great bathroom where you can lie in the bath and peer out of a huge window at the scenery. The whole complex is wonderfully designed and a tree grows up through the lobby.

Our Opinion: A favourite with our clients, particuarly for the vegetarian restaurant.

Hotel Mascotte

This charming nineteenth century 14 room mansion is typical of the beautiful Spanish colonial buildings that surround Parque Marti. It is the only hotel in this delightful town and is a great place to spend a few days enjoying the peace and quiet. Rooms are comfortable and although facilities are limited the hotel more than makes up for it with its charm and friendly staff.

Our Opinion: This makes a good base from which you can visit the unspoilt beaches along the north coast.

Hotel Ancon

Situated about 6 miles south of Trinidad nearly at the end of the Ancon Peninsula, this is an all-inclusive hotel (though Cuban style, so it is buffet food and local drinks only. For foreign brands you need to pay extra). There is a cocktail bar that serves an incredible range of concoctions and a cabaret every evening plus the obligatory disco.
There’s no getting away from the fact that this is a large concrete block on a reasonably nice beach. However it’s a great location and makes an ideal base for exploration.

Our Opinion: Considering there is little choice of any accommodation in Trinidad it’s a good choice if you accept it’s not your usual all inclusive.

Las Cuevas Motel

Situated on a hill just behind Trinidad, some of the 110 rooms overlook the picturesque valley while others have views of the town and sea. There are two swimming pools, a bar, disco (in a cave) and a restaurant serving buffet meals. The hotel is suitable for those without a car who wish to explore Trinidad on foot. It has been refurbished in 2002 and we have had favourable feedback from our clients.

Our Opinion: It is not the most stylish of places but in a great location for the town.

Union Hotel

The recently renovated and refurbished Union Hotel is located in the heart of the bustling city of Cienfuegos, just three blocks away from Prado, the main throughfare. There are 49 air-conditioned standard rooms and suites equipped with all the usual facilities. Some rooms have louvered windows that look out onto the street while others face inward into the courtyard and pool area. There is also a rooftop terrace.

Our Opinion: Elegant, cool, colonial chic with great views of the city.

Hotel Saratoga

Famous for its gastronomy and popular Cuban orchestras in the 1930's, this legendary hotel has recently been restored and has now joined the ranks of colonial hotels in the city. Revamped features include a roof top pool and magnificant terrace with 270 degree views from north to south-west. The hotel has 99 bedrooms and 7 suites. There is a restaurant with a french chef and three bars including the roof top bar.

Our Opinion: For a real grand experience of Havana, this is the place to stay.