Topes de Collantes

High in the Sierra de Escambray, at the end of a road that winds its way north from Trinidad, this sylvan enclave has long been a health resort. It's also the perfect base for a hike. At an altitude of 800 meters (2,600 feet) above sea level, the climate is refreshing (the average temperature is 21°C/70°F), and regular precipitation keeps everything green. Because the area receives mostly Cuban tourism, the accommodations and restaurants aren't as good as those in Trinidad and Ancón, but the rates are reasonable. If you don't want to spend the night, the tour operator Rumbos offers day trips from Trinidad.