Artemisa: A Hidden Gem in Cuba

Located on the western side of the island nation of Cuba, Artemisa is a city that is not known to many tourists. However, it offers a unique blend of rich culture and stunning natural beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.

Getting to Artemisa

Artemisa is located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) west of Havana, the capital of Cuba. There are several ways to get to Artemisa:

• By Car: If you are driving from Havana, take the Autopista Nacional (National Highway) west towards Pinar del Rio. Artemisa is located on this highway, and the journey should take around an hour.

• By Bus: Viazul buses run between Havana and Pinar del Rio, with several stops along the way, including Artemisa.

Salto del Arco Iris

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Artemisa is the Salto del Arco Iris (Rainbow Waterfall). It is located in a remote area of the Artemisa province, about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the town of Soroa. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for hiking and bird watching.

To get to the Salto del Arco Iris, you will need to take a taxi or hire a guide. The journey involves a short hike through the forest, and you will be rewarded with stunning views of the waterfall. Swimming is also possible in the crystal clear pool at the base of the waterfall, but be sure to check the water levels before diving in.

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Finca La Burgambilia

Another popular attraction in Artemisa is Finca La Burgambilia. This is a working farm that has been in operation for over 50 years. Visitors can take a tour of the farm and learn about the various crops that are grown there, including coffee, sugar cane, and tobacco.

The tour also includes a visit to the farm's processing plant, where you can see how the crops are turned into finished products. There is also a restaurant on the farm that serves traditional Cuban dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

To get to Finca La Burgambilia, take Calle 52 in the town of Aguacate.

URL: Calle 52, Aguacate

Other Attractions

In addition to Salto del Arco Iris and Finca La Burgambilia, there are several other attractions in Artemisa that are worth visiting:

• Museo Municipal: This museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Artemisa.

• Plaza de la Revolución: This is the main square in Artemisa and is home to several important government buildings and monuments.

• Iglesia Parroquial San Marcos: This is a beautiful church that dates back to the 18th century. It is located in the center of Artemisa and is a popular spot for photography.

Where to Stay

Artemisa is a small city, and there are limited options for accommodation. However, there are several guesthouses and casas particulares (private homes) that offer comfortable and affordable lodging.

• Casa de la Familia: This is a guesthouse located in the center of Artemisa. It offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

• Villa Las Terrazas: This is a casa particular located in the town of Las Terrazas, about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from Artemisa. It offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and is a great option for those who want to escape the city.

Conclusion

Artemisa may not be as well-known as some of the other cities in Cuba, but it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage that is sure to impress. From the stunning Salto del Arco Iris to the working farm at Finca La Burgambilia, there is plenty to see and do in Artemisa. So why not add this hidden gem to your list of must-see destinations in Cuba?