EL CASTILLO DE JAGUA

The fortress stands on a hill overlooking the western part of the bay with a superb panorama. Formerly called Fortaleza de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Jagua, it was begun in 1733 and completed by the Spaniards in 1745. Its strategic objective was to protect the region, especially the flourishing economic activity, from British offensives and pirate incursions: Jacques de Sores and Francis Drake in the 16th century, Thomas Basquerville, Henry Morgan, Gilberto Giron and Lorenzo Graff in the 17th century and finally Charles Grant in the early 18th century. It still retains its old weapons: drawbridge, dungeons, watchtower, bell tower and even... its ghost. The Blue Lady, wife of the first commander of the fort, Juan Castillo Cabeza de Vaca, is said to continue to walk its corridors! Be careful not to pass through the drawbridge that the years have pierced. The village below is worth a short walk for its picturesque character.

Access by boat. 3 departures per day from the port of Cienfuegos (1 €). Call the day before to reserve.

Access by cab. Take the direction of Pasacaballo (30 €) and take the opportunity to visit the pelicans and pink flamingos of the lagoon of Guanaroca. Be aware that access to the lagoon is 10 € per person and that a maximum of 30 people are allowed to visit it per day; preferably go in the morning to avoid being turned away for exceeding the quota. On the way back, it is possible to stop at Playa Rancho Luna and the dolphinarium.