La Romana
La Romana is nestled between Punta Cana and the capital city of Santo Domingo, where relaxation is the order of the day. Golfers will appreciate the first-class courses in the area and diving enthusiasts will find many beautiful sites to explore, including the stunning islands of Saona and Catalina.
Must See
Parque Nacional del Este: this magnificent national park spans almost 800 square kilometres of open reserve encompassing both land and sea. On land, explore a subtropical rainforest and a dry forest on a trail known as the Sendero del Padre Nuestro, leading to Taíno caves with pictographs and springs. By sea, the park includes the popular offshore islands of Saona, Catalina, and Catalinita, as well as the natural pool area of La Palmilla. With more than 400 caves within the park, the most well-known is Cueva del Puente, easily hiked on foot.
Cueva de las Maravillas: aptly named the ‘Cave of Wonders’, this must-see subterranean cavern is located midway between San Pedro de Macoris and La Romana. Take the cave’s 240-metre path underground to view awe-inspiring stalagmites and stalactites sand as well as approximately 500 rupestrian paintings by the ancient Tainos.
Altos de Chavón: this is a place like no other – a replica 16th century Mediterranean-style village in the heart of the Dominican countryside. Artists began flocking to Altos de Chavón and soon after it became an international arts centre, where accomplished professional artists from many countries and disciplines compete for residencies. A popular attraction in the city, it hosts a cultural centre, an archeological museum, and an amphitheatre.
Must Do
Championship golf – Tee up for a beautiful game of golf at one of La Romana’s three 18-hole championship golf courses open to the public, all run by Casa de Campo. They are the Dientes de Perro, the Links and the Dye Fore, the last being designed by Pete Dye. Outside the town, you will find more golf courses in Juan Dolio and on the East Coast.
Experience underwater life – don’t miss out on the chance to interact with natural beauty at the nearby Catalina Island, where experienced divers have long appreciated the beauty of its underwater wildlife. Even shallow dives let you discover purple sea fans, orange, brown and grey gardens, and a variety of multi-coloured, fluorescent fish.
Be daring – explore the largest cave in the Caribbean. Fun Fun Cave, in Hato Mayor, runs seven kilometres long and, in it, you can discover giant corridors, cave art, and the subterranean rivers. Experience the underground beauty of Dominican Republic on this day trip from Punta Cana to the tunnels of Fun Fun Cave.