Biking Western and Central Cuba

Our accommodation for the next two days will be Casas Particulares, Cuban version of AirB&B. This will be a great opportunity to start having contact with the locals and enrich our perception of the real Cuba.
Assemble bikes if needed. A well-trained staff will assist, tour leader, local tour guide, a mechanic, and a bus driver. The local staff has lots of experience in handling cycling tours.
Today we celebrate you joining us in this cycling adventure, and do the proper introductions, bus driver, bike mechanic, cultural guide, and tour leader.

Let’s ride, shall we? Today we ride around La Habana. Like any Capital City, some level of traffic is to be expected. However, it doesn’t compare to anything you may be used to. Just a detail, there are only some 800 000 private vehicles registered, out of a city population of some 2.5 million. Starting at Vedado we will have a nice City Tour by bike. Along Centro Habana, La Habana Vieja (Old Havana), and towards Vía Blanca, you will appreciate how the city grew, and how different it is.
Some members of the La Guayaba Cycling Club, master’s category, also known as Guayaberos, will meet us to share with us “tempo” (or else) ride at “their” circuit. This will be a great opportunity for donations since these bike lovers struggle to get the simplest of spares. ANYTHING and EVERYTHING will be most welcome.
Right after the riding climax, we head out to San Francisco de Paula to visit La Finca Vigia, primary home of Ernst Hemingway.
By now, we are done cycling and we are taking the shuttle back to La Habana Vieja for lunch. A proper Walking Tour through History, and right after, we will be driven around in Private Vintage Cars. Check more route details on STRAVA!

The adventure begins, so this morning we move on from La Habana, heading out to Las Terrazas. A beautiful scenery awaits along today’s route. As we move towards Artemisa, we ride through small communities and small towns, like Baracoa, Mariel, Cabañas; etc. We will enjoy a simple lunch en route, always supporting the local entrepreneurs. By now we have already done some 34.3 mi. It means that if you would rather take it easy from here, the shuttle will be at your disposal. For those wanting to enjoy every single inch of the ride, we still have another 18.5 mi to our destination in Las Terrazas, where we are staying in La Moka.
Las Terrazas was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1985 due to its well-preserved natural environment. The reserve covers an area of about 25,000 hectares and is home to diverse flora and fauna. Its name comes from the reforestation that took place here between 1965 to 1975, in which some 6 million trees were planted with the Terracing System. Las Terrazas is also known for its sustainable development projects, Community centered. The projects cover everything from eco-tourism, organic farming, and art and crafts initiatives to local workshops and studios of pottery, papermaking, and woodwork. Check more route details on STRAVA!

This morning, we depart from Las Terrazas, heading West. We encourage to take the route through El Rosario Mountains. It is definitely worthwhile. It could be a bit challenging; it is a reasonable one. Ultimately, the bus will always be right behind us. So, if someone is feeling like taking a break, that option is always available. Skipping a section and getting back on the next one is a smart move!
Our destination is San Diego de los Baños. This little town dates to the 17th Century.  The town is famous for its sulfuric thermal mineral waters. San Diego de los Baños Therapeutic Center (Spa-like) is a known along the country for its thermal pools, and therapeutic properties. This facility also offers various treatments like massages and mud baths. Check more route details on STRAVA!

Today we saddle up towards Viñales. The adventure continues! We will still enjoy the splendor of this unique scenery for most of the day. Only when we get to Los Portales, we will notice how the mountains begin to change, as move away from El Rosario Mountain Range and get into Los Organos Mountain Range. These two sections together form the narrow and elongated Guaniguanico Mountain Range.
Los Portales Cave, also known as Cueva de los Portales in Spanish, is a significant natural and historical site located in the mountains of the Pinar del Río Province in western Cuba. Los Portales Cave has several unique features, including a length of approximately 700 meters (2,300 feet) and impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. The cave is also known for its large underground lake, which adds to its natural beauty. One of the cave’s most notable associations is with Ernesto “Che” Guevara, who used it as a hideout during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. Che Guevara, who was the Minister of Industries at the time, sought shelter in the cave to coordinate military operations and prepare for a possible U.S. invasion. By now, we already cycled 32 km/ 20 mi of rolling hills, halfway to our destination, and there is only few more on the way. However, if you feel like meeting today’s whole distance, It is also an option to jump on the bus for a break, and then come back for the final stretch to Viñales. Easy peachy. Check more route details on STRAVA!

Right after breakfast, we gather with all our bike gear ready, and after a short bike checking, and the day`s briefing, we roll! Today’s ride is further West and North from Viñales. Our ride will take us along quiet backroads that will give us the chance to appreciate the enormous beauty of this World Heritage Landscape, the heart of Los Organos Mountain Range. Tobacco Farms, their “Casas de Cura” (Drying Houses), the lush green, the Mogotes and a vivid rust-colored soil will be our surroundings.
We will roll some ups and downs, before we get to Santa Lucia, where we have a short stop to reach out to a local family and entrepreneurs. It is a good chance for a “Cultural Coffee”. From there, we roll until Cayo Jutías. It boasts pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it a picturesque beach. The place is surrounded by lush vegetation, including mangroves and coconut palms, adding to the natural beauty of the area. The backdrop of greenery creates a tropical ambiance that enhances the overall appeal of Cayo Jutías. Just breathe and relax. Check more route details on STRAVA!

On this day we take a break from the saddle. Since we are transferring from Viñales to Santa Clara. This will take all day, but we will tackle the long drive into two segments, to La Habana, where we will have a stop for lunch, and then on to Santa Clara. The route takes us through the picturesque landscapes of western Cuba. Some of it we have already seen, but today we can take a step back and re-see it, differently. It is a great opportunity to reflect and discuss the different Cubas we are seeing through our individual optics.
After some 6 hours of driving (moving time), we will reach Santa Clara, a city famous for its pivotal role in the Cuban Revolution. Santa Clara is most notably associated with Ernesto “Ché” Guevara, as it was the site of the final battle against the Batista regime in December 1958. The city holds significant historical landmarks, including the Che Guevara Mausoleum and Memorial, which houses the remains of “Ché” Guevara and the rest of his guerrillas.

This morning we start the day at a historical landmark. We visit “Ché” Guevara Mausoleum and Memorial. Here, we will get an approach on this polemic, world-known and utopic revolutionary character.
Right after, we get on our bikes and head out to Hanabanilla, via Manicaragua. Our ride today will be rural, mostly. Some traffic is expected, mostly in the first half.
Hanabanilla is a small village located in the heart of the Guamuaya Mountains, in the province of Villa Clara, in central Cuba. This spot allows us to immerse yourself in Cuba’s natural beauty and experience a serene and idyllic setting surrounded by mountains and a picturesque lake. It’s a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Tonight, we rest after a not so difficult day; we enjoy the relaxing, breath-taking scenery, and tomorrow we face our week’s challenge. Check more route details on STRAVA!

Today is a great day. We will be riding around the Guamuaya Mountain Range area. There are multiple options to this ride, but what matters the most is that all of them are awesome rides, and certainly challenging in their own ways. The option described here is a very interesting one, comprising a little bit of everything, a good riding distance, green mountain surrounding scenery, and some challenging ups-and-downs.
Our destination today is Trinidad. Located on the southern coast of Cuba, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, since 1988, and one of the country’s most enchanting and historically significant cities. It is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved colonial architecture. As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you’ll be transported back in time to the 18th and 19th centuries. Its location, by the Caribbean Sea, and to the North enclosed by the Guamuaya Mountains, makes this city one of the best touristic destinations in the country. Check more route details on STRAVA!

After yesterday’s ride, it is up to us to take a break from the saddle, or simply taking a short recovery ride to Ancon, a Caribbean beach, only some miles from Trinidad.
Also, today we will do a walking tour of the city. Recognizing its outstanding universal value, the city’s historic center is a living museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Cuba’s colonial past. Exploring the well-preserved streets, squares, and buildings of Trinidad is like stepping into a bygone era. Trinidad is a captivating destination that seamlessly combines colonial charm, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Its well-preserved architecture, UNESCO recognition, vibrant music scene, and proximity to stunning natural attractions make it an unforgettable place to visit in Cuba. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a music lover, or an adventurer seeking unique experiences, Trinidad is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
It is also a golden opportunity to exchange with the local entrepreneurs. The city in general, but the historical center is a very vibrant entrepreneurial stronghold. Mostly tourism oriented, the local economy rests on visitors and the services offered to these visitors. Even the little local production is conceived for the tourism industry. Check more route details on STRAVA!

Today, we ride along the southern coast of the island. Throughout the bike route, we’ll pass through charming rural areas, small towns, and coastal vistas. We’ll have the opportunity to observe Cuba’s natural beauty, including lush greenery, sugarcane fields, and scenic ocean views. Along the way, we might encounter local communities, where you can interact with friendly locals and experience the unique Cuban culture.
Our destination today is Cienfuegos. It is known as the “Pearl of the South” due to its stunning architecture, rich history, and scenic surroundings. Cienfuegos offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and Cuban charm. Whether we explore its architectural treasures, stroll along the Malecon, or venture into the nearby natural wonders, we’re bound to have a memorable experience in this captivating city. Check more route details on STRAVA!

We have another astonishing Coastal ride, between Cienfuegos and Caleta Buena. Caleta Buena is a small beach and diving spot located on the southern coast of the province of Matanzas, right by the entrance of the notoriously known, but super beautiful Bay of Pigs. It displays all shades of blue-crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and beautiful natural surroundings.

Today, we visit Playa Giron Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history and significance of the Bay of Pigs invasion, which took place in April 1961. The Bay of Pigs invasion was a pivotal event in Cuban history. It was an unsuccessful attempt by a paramilitary group of Cuban exiles, trained and supported by the United States, to overthrow the government of Fidel Castro. The museum aims to provide insight into the events leading up to the invasion, the battle itself, and its aftermath.

Lunch and swim at Caleta Buena

Matanzas, often referred to as the “Athens of Cuba,” is a vibrant and culturally rich city located on the northern coast of the island. Known for its stunning architecture, poetic traditions, and thriving arts scene, Matanzas offers visitors a unique blend of history and artistic expression. The city is home to numerous colonial buildings, such as the Sauto Theater and the San Carlos Cathedral, showcasing its architectural beauty. Matanzas is also famous for its Afro-Cuban folklore and music, with the renowned art form of rumba originating from this region. With its picturesque bay, charming streets, and passionate cultural heritage, Matanzas is a captivating destination for travelers looking to explore the artistic and historical treasures of Cuba. Check more route details on STRAVA!

This morning, we leave Matanzas by bus, only for a short transfer to Ceiba Mocha. From there, we get on our bikes and roll. This route will lead us through the Picadura Valley, as we get into the Mayabeque Province. Throughout our ride we will enjoy a picturesque landscape, lush green, limestone mountains, lakes, and rural communities with rather quiet roads. We will enjoy this peaceful and colorful last ride, all the way back into La Habana. Tonight we will enjoy a well-deserved farewell dinner to wrap up all the new experiences and celebrate you, again, for having ridden with us. Check more route details on STRAVA!

This morning we wake up with home in mind, packing and making sure we take back all that we brought, as well as a new approach and perspective on reality. It will be very different, but hopefully this past two weeks will have a lasting impact on us and how we approach life. Thanks for riding with us. Let’s do it again!