description

Located just an hour's drive west of Havana, the small community of Las Terrazas is set within the UNESCO Sierra del Rosario Biosphere. The area around Las Terrazas was once famous for its coffee plantations but when the soil was no longer able to support the crop the plantations were abandoned and the whole region left to economic and environmental ruin. Since then there has been a largescale program of re-forestation which eventually led to UNESCO declaring it a protected region. The Sierra del Rosario Biosphere is now one of the most beautiful and tranquil parts of Cuba and very popular with clients who make the short journey. It is also possible to visit Las Terrazas on a day trip from Havana.

Beaches

About an hour's drive from Las Terrazas, just off the north coast, is the small island of Cayo Levisa. There are a number of beautiful deserted beaches here and day trips with lunch can usually be arranged from La Moka hotel.

Excursions

High in the hills above Las Terazzas are the preserved ruins of the Buena Vista Coffee plantation. Built in the 19th century there is a small restaurant serving typical Cuban cuisine. Nearer to the hotel there is Terrazas Farm where visitors can catch a glimpse into the workings of a typical Cuban small-holding. Lunch can usually be arranged by prior appointment. Another popular trip for clients with their own transport are the Botanical Gardens at nearby Soroa.

Food

Although many visitors to Las Terrazas never venture out of La Moka hotel for their meals, the village is home to one of the best eateries in Cuba, a wonderful little vegetarian restaurant which sources all its ingredients from the local area. For those clients with a car, although the quality of the food isn't always great, the beautiful setting of the Buenavista coffee plantation is a strong draw.

Getting There

Las Terrazas is 1 hour's drive west of Havana. We can arrange private road transfers to and from Havana Vinales, Cayo Levisa, Maria La Gorda, Jibacoa, Varadero, Cienfuegos and Trinidad. However, due its isolation by far the best way to visit Las Terrazas is by hire car.

Hotels

There is just the 1 hotel at Las Terazzas, La Moka Eco-Lodge, but it is one of the nicest in Cuba. Due to its small size and popularity early booking is vital especially for travel during the high season (1st November - 30th April). If the Moka is full then the Villa Soroa is a good 2nd choice.