As renowned for its spectacular views of the Vinales Valley as Las Jazmines, La Ermita offers a unique access point to the community and to the natural wealth of this premier location in Cuba’s western province of Pinar del Rio.

An ample parking lot is met by an unassuming reception area that opens onto the heart of the complex: a swimming pool surrounded by well-kept lawns, complete with a charming open-air bar and table seating. Hotel facilities, including accommodations, are arranged around this central area, and a stone path extends and slopes down towards the vast expanse of the valley from here, connecting the hotel with its natural setting in a way that is sure to please outdoor types.

Indeed, the hotel seems to have been built with nature lovers in mind: guided tours afford visitors a closer look at the province’s celebrated flora and fauna (particularly its picturesque birds and renowned cork palms) and there’s no shortage of trails for hikers or more adventurous guests.

Those more interested in urban exploration best arrive on wheels (though Vinales is a mere kilometer away from the hotel).

A great spot for enjoying sweeping views of the valley and savoring a Cuban cocktail or criollo meal is the outdoor terrace of the hotel restaurant, which has a cottage-like interior with colonial motifs. The other good lounging area is by the poolside bar, though the loud music there, reported by a great many guests, might prove offensive to some ears.

Accommodations consist of four guest-blocks. Though some have unquestionably better views than others, all are wheelchair-accessible and have long, shaded balconies whose mood is altogether pleasing.

Set in a mostly quiet and relaxing natural context, La Ermita is the kind of place you want to return to after a day of trekking around town or through nature, and its location is pretty much as good as it gets.

Hotel La Ermita - Hotel Modalities: Budget - Eco-hotel - Countryside