|
Holguin,
Gibara, and Guardalavaca
| The
capital of Holguín Province is sometimes called The City
of Parks, and even a short visit will show you why. Though Holguin
city is largely flat, it is surrounded by hills, two of which are
topped by miradors (lookouts) that make great destinations
for a short cycle outing. It's also a friendly town; here, bici-taxi
drivers and pedestrians all want to talk with visitors from the
U.S. |
 |
 |
Holguín
Province is a wonderful area for cycle touring. Rich, rolling fields
to the north and east are backed by hills punctuated by mogotes
reminiscent of those in Pinar del Rio. There is an easy and delightfully
scenic ride north to Gibara, a modest, somewhat ramshackle port
town. |
|
In
some ways, Gibara is reminiscent of Baracoa, with weather-beaten,
pastel buildings and loads of charm — but smaller and without
the hordes of tourists. There is even an ongoing dispute as to
whether Columbus first landed in Baracoa or in Gibara.
|
 |
 |
The
coast is indented with bays and blessed with gorgeous beaches
like Playa Pesquero, Guardalavaca, and nearby Playa Esmerelda.
We don't often stay in luxury hotels, but we had the good luck
to wait out a hurricane here at the Superclub in Playa Pesquero.
|
|
