Did you know that... 🌴?
Last February, TripAdvisor published its famous list of theworld's 25 best beaches for 2019, and Varaderotook 2nd place! Only Bahia do Sancho, located in Brazil, came in ahead of it. Also in the top five were Eagle Beach (Aruba), Playa de la Concha (San Sebastian, Spain) and Grace Bay Beach (Turks and Caicos Islands). A real accolade for this heavenly destination in Cuba's province of Matanzas.
If you're planning to discover Varadero, here are some amazing facts you probably don't know about this beach and its surroundings:
🌵 1. The thousand-year-old "El Patriarca" cactus
Did you know that one of the oldest trees in the Caribbean can be found in Varadero? Nicknamed "El Patriarca", it is a 500-year-old cactus measuring almost 7 metres in height. It is located in the Varahicacos ecological reserve, a protected natural area where flora and fauna coexist harmoniously.
🏛️2. The origins of Varadero
Varadero was founded in 1883 by ten courageous families who succeeded where others had failed. Before that, mosquitoes, gnats and storms had discouraged all attempts at settlement. Thanks to their determination, Varadero has become what it is today: a global tourist jewel.
💰 3. Land prices in Varadero in the early 20th century
In the early days, land in Varadero was sold for 0.04 cents per square meter! Later, American businessman Alfred Irénée Dupont bought 512 hectares, covering a vast area from 54th Street to the Cueva del Pirata. A few years later, the price had climbed from 20 to 100 pesos per square meter. Quite an evolution!
🎨4. Remains of pre-Columbian aborigines
Before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in 1492, aborigines lived in the Varadero region. Archaeological discoveries, such as the 72 pictograms in theAmbrosio and Musulmanes caves, bear witness to their presence and culture.
🏰 5. The luxurious Xanadú mansion (Casa Dupont)
Built on San Bernardino Rock, Varadero's highest point, Casa Dupont, also known as the Xanadú mansion, is one of the region's most prestigious residences. With an initial investment of 400,000 dollars for the construction and 200,000 dollars for furnishings and decoration, this architectural gem was designed by Cuban architects FélixCabarrocas and Evelio Govantes.
💕6. The love story behind Josone Park
Josone Park, an emblematic space in Varadero, bears a singular name that has its origins in a beautiful love story. Its owners, José Fermín Iturrioz, director of the famous Arrechabala rum factory, and his wife Onelia, combined the first syllables of their first names to christen this idyllic spot. "José" + "Onelia" = Josone.
7. Proximity to the USA
Varadero is Cuba's closest point to the United States. From pointe d'Hicacos, only 90 miles (approx. 145 km) separate Varadero from the Florida coast .
🌪️8. The tornado that transformed Varadero in 1980
In 1980, a devastating tornado radically changed the landscape of Varadero. The casuarinas (trees that lined the beach at the time) were almost completely destroyed. Following this disaster, it was decided to replant the area with more storm-resistant species such as coconut palms and caleta grapes, essential to the local ecosystem.
🌴 Varadero today: a Caribbean icon
Varadero is much more than a beach: it's a blend of history, nature, culture and authenticity. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover or just looking to relax, Varadero has something unique to offer.
So, are you ready to discover why Varadero is ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world? 🌊☀️
🔗 Share this post with your friends and let them discover Varadero's secrets! 🌴
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