EL SALTÓN

The easternmost spurs of the Sierra Maestra rise west of Santiago de Cuba. El Saltón is touted as a mountain health resort, with a natural pool and picture-perfect cascades nestled in a valley high in the mountains. Few roads penetrate the mountains, making your arrival at El Saltón all the more breathtaking. The lodge offers massage, sauna, and whirlpool, as well as horseback rides (CUC2 per hour). It is excellent for bird-watching, and guided hikes lead to a cocoa plantation.