Opened in 1993 by Fidel Castro, Hotel Colonial was the first resort to set up shop on Cayo Coco. While many other all-inclusive resorts have since joined the fray, this one remains totally unique with its distinctly colonial flavor and timeless charm. The lobby area anchors the resort at its center, with a handful of little stores, and a big colonial building wrapped with an al fresco patio where guests casually take time out to drink excellent espresso coffee, tap beer, and pina coladas. It all feels like stepping into another place and another time. From here, the property unfolds in either direction along a seemingly endless stretch of pristine beachfront that makes for a wonderful natural contrast to the Old World architecture. A parade of 23 two- and three-story buildings in bold colors unfolds like a quaint resort village around two sweeping freeform pools that snake their way through the property. Hotel Colonial’s notably chilled out atmosphere attracts relaxation seekers from all walks of life -- families, couples and groups of all ages, and senior singles -- and many are return guests. Given the property’s age and tropical location, there are obvious signs of wear. While some guests feel the place is long overdue for updates, others find its symptoms of age all part of the Cuban charm.

Hotel Colonial is located on the Ciego de Avila Province of Cayo Coco. Belonging to the Jardines del Rey archipelago off central Cuba, the tropical island is known for its stunning white-sand and aqua coastline which has proved a magnet for all-inclusive resorts that dot its northern edge. Many guests remain within hotel confines throughout their vacation. However, island explorers can take the double decker hop-on hop-off bus for five dollars per day. Hotel Colonial is a 20-minute drive from Jardines del Rey international airport for flights from Canada and Havana. Greyhound-style coach transportation typically busses guests to and from the resort, but taxis are on hand at the airport, and they can be arranged with reception. Direct flights to the US are offered from Ignacio Agramonte Airport in Camaguey. It's about three hours' drive from Cayo Coco, and the cab ride to or from Cayo Coco can easily exceed $150. Island highlights include Lenny’s restaurant -- famous for its fresh lobster (six minutes), Playa Pilar -- arguably the region’s most beautiful beach (35 minutes), and one of the America’s largest colony of pink flamingos that call Cayo Coco’s marshlands home. 

Available in one king or two double bed configurations, rooms here are more practical than stylish, but they’re generous in size, and open onto furnished balconies with a choice of views. Lofty sloped ceilings add to the sense of space, and decor blends warm paint tones with fancy wrought iron headboards, and matching furniture (like work desks and table settings for two), in timber and cane. Rooms are equipped with satellite flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges containing bottles of chilled water -- replaced daily, which guests appreciate. Bathrooms are huge. They're dressed in granite with lovely big vanities. Separate water closets and bidets are partitioned behind a privacy door. A good selection of toiletries is provided. Closets provide plenty of hanging space, spare blankets, and safes. Rooms also feature ceiling fans and hairdryers. Some rooms can encounter noise from workers and busses coming and going (staff are bussed in and out of Cayo Coco for each shift.) 

Hotel Colonial features two huge pools (one freshwater; the other saltwater) that snake their way throughout the property. A swim-up bungalow bar, El Yarey, adjoins one pool, and the kids’ club has its own kiddy pool. There is no shortage of places to eat on-site. Three a la carte restaurants include Fontanella (Italian), El Dorado (seafood), and El Caribeno (Caribbean). The Plaza (buffet) serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A piano bar adjoins the Italian restaurant, and Ranchon serves drinks in a bungalow right over the beach. There’s also the lobby bar, where excellent espresso is served alongside ice-cold tap beer and cocktails. All-inclusive rates cover meals and drinks, which get mixed reviews from guests. 

The spa and wellness center is a destination in itself, with an indoor lap and outdoor hydromassage pools, plus a whirlpool. The solid array of treatments includes hydrotherapy and open-air massages overlooking the water. The fitness center is also located here, although the aging equipment has seen better days. The spa and gym are a few minutes’ drive from the hotel, which will arrange transportation there and back. A handful of on-site boutique shops sell cigars, Cuban rum, resort-wear, and souvenirs near the lobby. Wi-Fi is provided in the lobby and reception area, and internet access cards can be purchased at reception.