Welcome to Varadero, a paradise known for its endless stretches of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. But there’s more to this Caribbean haven than meets the eye. Join us on an exhilarating 2 to 3-hour classic car tour of Varadero as we uncover its attractives.
Discover the Charm of Exploring in a Classic American Car
Before we embark on our journey, let’s talk about the allure of booking a classic American car tour. Riding in one of these vintage automobiles adds an extra layer of nostalgia and adventure to your Varadero experience. Cruise along the coast in style, soaking in the sights and sounds of this picturesque destination from the comfort of a beautifully restored classic car.
Casa de Al
Our journey begins at the majestic Casa de Al, perched overlooking the beach. Built in the 1930s, this iconic structure was one of the first houses in the Kawama neighborhood. While it bears the name of the infamous mobster Al Capone, historical records suggest he never set foot here. Nonetheless, stepping into this establishment feels like a journey back to Capone’s Chicago reign. Admire the concrete replica of his 1920s car in the gardens and be greeted by a life-size photograph of the mobster on the porch. Inside, immerse yourself in Capone’s world through photos, newspaper articles, and a visit to the Capo Bar, where tales of his enigmatic persona come to life.
The Craft Fair on 15th Street
Our next stop on the Varadero tour takes us to the Craft Fair on 15th Street. It’s the largest in the area and the perfect place to acquire unique and authentic souvenirs. Here, visitors will immerse themselves in a world of colors and creativity as they explore the numerous stalls offering a wide variety of souvenirs and handicrafts. From vibrant paintings to delicate jewelry and traditional textiles, there is something for every taste and budget. Additionally, tourists will have the opportunity to interact with talented local artisans, learn about traditional techniques, and take home a piece of Cuban culture. It’s truly an unforgettable shopping experience in the heart of Varadero!
Parque Josone
Next, we venture to the heart of Varadero to explore Parque Josone. This enchanting park, once the neoclassical home of José and Onelia Iturrioz, now invites visitors to revel in its natural splendor. Spread across 9 hectares, the park boasts lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and even paddleboat rides on its serene lake. After a stroll, indulge in traditional Creole cuisine at one of the park’s charming restaurants.
Boulevard de Varadero
Next, we head to the bustling Boulevard Varadero. Crossing the boulevard between 62nd and 64th streets is magical, with a variety of establishments: clothing stores, specialized restaurants like Bolshoi for Russian cuisine, Asian cuisine, Franco-Swiss cuisine, cafes, markets, tourist services, airline offices, and banks. There’s also a boutique for coffee lovers, one for chocolate, and another for rum. The “guarapera” is a highlight, offering natural sugarcane juice. The cultural square on 64th Street hosts concerts and shows day and night, attracting both young and old.
Mansión Xanadú
Our next stop is the ancient Xanadu Mansion. It was built in 1928 by the French-American millionaire Irenée du Pont in Varadero. Located on San Bernardino Hill by the sea, it combines precious woods and Florentine marble. Du Pont’s eclectic taste favored marine ornamentation. Today, this mansion is a hotel restaurant with three squares and terraces. One terrace has a bar with enticing views, perfect for a late afternoon drink.
El Patriarca
In addition to its beaches, Varadero boasts other wonders, such as the San Ambrosio Cave, nestled near the northern tip of the peninsula. Hidden within the oasis of a natural forest spanning 124 hectares, the cavern houses aboriginal pictographs and serves as an ecosystem for various bat species. However, its main attraction is an over 500-year-old tree known as “El Patriarca.”
El Patriarca stands as Cuba’s oldest living being. El Patriarca has endured for over half a millennium. It has silently witnessed the passage of indigenous peoples, conquistadors, pirates, and now curious tourists. Unlike a towering ceiba tree, El Patriarca is a giant cactus with an extensive root system. This intricate network of roots has enabled its survival for over five centuries. It anchors it to the rock to withstand even the most violent hurricanes and allows it to regenerate each time human hands threaten its existence.
Marina de Varadero
Our final stop is the luxurious Marina de Varadero, where the sea meets sophistication. Marvel at the sleek yachts lining the docks and browse the upscale shops offering the latest in designer fashion. Treat yourself to a gourmet meal at one of the marina’s first-class restaurants, all while soaking in the breathtaking views of the ocean.
Conclusions
In this classic car tour of Varadero, we’ve uncovered a world of intrigue beyond its pristine beaches. From the echoes of Al Capone’s legacy to the natural beauty of Parque Josone and the vibrant atmosphere of the Boulevard, Varadero captivates at every turn. We hope you’ve enjoyed this journey as much as we have and that it inspires you to discover even more of Cuba’s enchanting allure. If you found this content helpful, we invite you to continue exploring other articles about Cuba in the following links:
Cuban Cigars: Discover Its Fascinating Facts
Top 5 authentic Cuban foods you must try on your tour of Havana
Hemingway in Cuba: 8 Facts About Hemingway’s Time in Cuba
Visiting Havana: 8 Compelling Reasons to Include it in Your Next Vacation
Things to Do in Varadero: The 8 Best-Rated Tourist Attractions
Why a Private Transfer in a American Classic Car is the Best Way to Travel in Havana
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