El Nicho (tel. 043/43-3351, daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m., CUC5), seven kilometers north of La Sierrita and 48 kilometers east of Cienfuegos, is popular with locals for its spectacular waterfalls and chilly pools good for swimming. Simple meals are served at a ranchón, where horseback riding is also offered (CUC2 per hour).
If driving, you’ll need a four-wheel drive, as the access road is in terrible shape. You can take a colectivo to Cumanayagua from either Cienfuegos [1] or Santa Clara [2]; another colectivo runs from Cumanayagua at 5:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Excursions are offered from Santa Clara.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/cuba/cienfuegos-and-villa-clara-provinces/cienfuegos
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/cuba/cienfuegos-and-villa-clara-provinces/santa-clara