The Port Santo stands atop a craggy bluff on the west side of Baracoa harbor

By: cubaism Expert, United Kingdom Posted: 2010-04-10

Run by Cuba's Gaviota chain, this 80-room hotel plays a reasonable second fiddle to the Hotel El Castillo. The Port Santo stands atop a craggy bluff on the west side of Baracoa harbor, and a good two mile walk from town (but just a one-minute drive to the airport). Hence, the El Castillo, with its in-the-heart-of-town locale, has the Porto Santo beat on that score. Nonetheless, we like the airy feel to the landscaped grounds, studded with two-story buildings that catch the sea breezes.

The serpentine pool and pooldeck is a great space to cool off and catch some rays. And steps lead down to a small private beach. Hungry after a game of tennis? The thatched poolside grill serves snacks, and the main restaurant offers a modest menu of criolla and continental dishes. A folkloric dance troupe often performs on the deck.

The air-conditioned rooms compete with those at El Castillo, with terra-cotta tile floors and fairly simple furniture of dark hardwoods and rattan. All rooms come with satellite TV, radio, telephone, in-roo safe, and modernized bathrooms, plus terraces or balconies – most with views over the bay toward Baracoa. It's only a few extra dollars for a suite.