Exploring Las Terrazas National Park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

After visiting the oldest cigar factory, we embarked on a one-hour journey to Las Terrazas National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and pioneering eco-village. This unique community originated from a reforestation project launched in 1968 and operates much like a kibbutz today.

Sadly, the area was recently devastated by Hurricane Rafael, which caused a 22-day blackout and left visible scars on the landscape. Damaged natural habitats and a hotel with its roof partially destroyed served as somber reminders of the storm's impact. Despite this, the village retained its charm—a picturesque, whitewashed community overlooking a serene lake, featuring open art studios, woodworking, and pottery workshops.

Upon arrival, we headed straight to the zipline. We were initially told it might not be operational due to hurricane damage, so our expectations were low. However, thanks to our guide Ileana’s skilled negotiations, we got to experience this exhilarating activity! Soaring above the trees was thrilling, and we were overjoyed to have the chance.

Next, we visited the studio of a talented artist whose creativity left us in awe. He resides in a house that once served as a guest retreat for Fidel Castro, with a large window offering stunning views of the lake. His life, dedicated to creating art in such an inspiring setting, was truly captivating.

Lunch was at a rustic family-run restaurant with a wooden terrace overlooking the lush surroundings. We enjoyed a traditional Cuban family meal: congrí (black bean rice), tender sweet pork, melt-in-your-mouth chicken, yucca root, and a simple salad of cabbage, cucumber, and tomato. Despite its simplicity, the meal was exceptional—arguably the best of our trip. While dining, we watched vultures gracefully circling in the sky—a unique and memorable sight.

Afterward, we visited the famed Café de María. This iconic café, founded by María, who was renowned for making the best coffee in the area, serves coffee grown organically on-site. Though María has passed, her family continues her legacy with dedication.

We then explored a coffee plantation nearby. As we approached, the air filled with a sweet aroma. While the fields themselves were modest and bore the marks of hurricane damage, the breathtaking views more than compensated. We also visited the enormous secaderos—open structures where coffee beans are dried and processed. Although the site was empty during our visit, witnessing the scale of production was fascinating. Interestingly, vultures seemed to flock here as well, adding to the mystique of the experience.

Our day at Las Terrazas was both enriching and inspiring. As the afternoon came to a close, we headed back to our hotel, grateful for the memorable journey.