Mirador de Mayabe

Mirador is a charming little resort for anyone in the Holguin area who wants to get off the usual Cuban route and spend time in tropical wilderness. Its small Spanish-style bungalows are modest, more B- than high-end, with AC, and sit along a lush path down to a pool on the hillside. The open-air lobby and dining room are lovely places for a beer or cafe, with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and sky, day or night. It’s a simple, eco-style resort for foreigners and “some” locals. It was built as the Castro era was beginning and later served as a perk for the military, government, and outside supporters, including Russians. Don’t expect US-style amenities. Cuba is still a communist country, and the average worker earns the equivalent of $30-40 per month, so please tip well. Basic things like effective plumbing can be scarce, and locals can’t afford expensive getaways.

I usually go for a day pass. The service has been good on my visits, and it’s a decent place to have a beer and spend some time by the pool.

The pool bathrooms are disgusting, and the food and day pass prices are unrealistic.

I love how peaceful and perfect this place is. The only problem during my visit was the Wi-Fi connection.