Postcard from Cayo Coco and Cayo Cruz

On the northeast side of Cuba, in the Jardines Del Rey archipelago, narrow islands are known as the sunniest destinations in the country: Cayo Coco and Cayo Cruz. Often called the “cayos” (cayes), they are linked to the main island by bridges and promise holidays in the most absolute calm and contemplation.

With white sand beaches of several kilometers, they would be among the most beautiful in the world, and certainly the most aesthetic thanks to the 50 shades of turquoise. Legends also say that these islands, once deserted, were prized by the pirates of the Caribbean.

Cayo Coco is the largest in the archipelago with 22 kilometers of beaches. To get there, you follow a long road surrounded by a swamp where white ibis, the island’s symbol, rub shoulders with pink flamingos, cormorants and pelicans. These natural landscapes start the holidays well.

Smaller Cayo Cruz is a newer beach destination ideal for travelers looking to laze under the hot Cuban sun. Near a marine park, sport fishing enthusiasts will be just as delighted.

The food

Cuban gastronomy likes the mixture of sweet and salty. Popular dishes are often made with black beans, rice and spices. Cuba being surrounded by water, fish and seafood are also often on the menu! These typical dishes are to be tasted during your visit:

• Cuban lobster: very famous, it is found in most restaurants cooked with “sofrito”, a tomato sauce.
• Picadillo: This ground beef dish is usually accompanied by white rice, black beans and plantains.
• Stuffed pineapple: at the heart of Cuban gastronomy, pineapple is stuffed with ham, butter and sugar for an exquisite sweet and savory dish.
• Papas Rellenas: Served as a small bite or as a side dish, these are actually mashed potatoes rolled in breadcrumbs and fried. We often add meat or peppers.

Must-do activities

Obviously, water activities are at the heart of the essentials in Cayo Coco and Cayo Cruz, but there is also plenty to do to soak up the local culture.

• Diving and fishing in the Marine Park of Cayo Cruz.
• Snorkel along the coral reef.
• Let yourself be transported over the turquoise waters in a catamaran.
• Climb up to 32 meters high at the Rocarena Climbing Center.
• Discover the town of Moron, its sugar mill and its cigar factory.

• Bask in Playa Pilar, the largest dune in the Caribbean and a place of inspiration for Ernest Hemingway.

The climate

Cayo Coco and Cayo Cruz receive virtually no rain during the winter. You will therefore be able to enjoy your holidays under a radiant sun and an average temperature of 25°Celcius.

Getting There

Air Transat offers all-inclusive packages to Cayo Coco and Cayo Cruz and flies to destination from Montreal (2 to 4 times per week), Toronto (2 to 3 times per week), Quebec City (2 times per week), Ottawa (1 time per week), Halifax and Hamilton (once a week) during the winter season.

GOOD ADDRESSES

Hotels:

• The hotel Iberostar Selection Playa Pilarlocated on the tip of Cayo Cruz in Cayo Guillermo, is a 4-star accommodation facing the sea that can accommodate families of more than 5 people thanks to these family suites.
• the Valentin Cayo Cruz is a 5-star, fully adults-only property with an infinity pool, sports areas, spa and exercise room.

Restaurants:

• To taste freshly caught lobster: Lenny’s Bar and Grill on Playa Prohibida
• For succulent grills to enjoy with both feet in the sand: Ranchon Playa Flamenco in Cayo Coco.

Bars:

• For beach party and dance competitions: Playa Flamenco
• To dance the night away to traditional Cuban music in a natural cave: Cueva de Jabali

TO KNOW :

• The official language is Spanish.
• The currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP).
• The capital is Havana.

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