TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

We spent a week at this hotel in early July and were generally pleased with our stay. The resort is nice but not perfect and apparently the best adults-only resort in Varadero, which we would believe. It seems less impacted by shortages than other hotels. The resort would probably compare to a 4* in Mexico, but considering the significant price difference compared to a 5* in other countries, we would probably come back. We liked the layout of several low-rise, pastel-colored buildings instead of a massive high rise. The resort is generally well maintained, except for the ubiquitous decorative pools of water, most of which were not maintained and just collected greenish water. The vibe is not really that of a party resort, although the entertainment at the main pool in the mid afternoon can be quite loud. Service was always friendly and helpful. We did not upgrade to Diamond Club and were happy with our decision. There were a lot of mosquitoes at night so insect repellent is a must. BEACH AND POOLS: The beach is spectacular, long and spacious, with white powdery sand and crystal clear turquoise water. No seaweed or jelly fish. We were in low season and there were always plenty of chairs and shade available. The main pool is nice and clean, and we liked the small waterfalls. The 2 small quiet pools on both ends of the resort seemed maintained every day but the water filtration system did not seem to work, resulting in the pools being unusable on a few days due to murky water, but they were better on a few days. At pools and beach, bar service at the chairs was almost nonexistant. ROOM: we spent the first night in a junior regular room, which was clean but showed some wear and tear and in need of a facelift. We then moved to a junior superior room, which was renovated and it was great: modern and bright with lots of amenities in the room. AC was fine and bed was very comfortable. I would strongly recommend the upgrade. FOOD: Buffets were always plentiful but repetitive. Quality of the food went from just acceptable to good (but never great) on most nights. We had fresh fruits and eggs in the morning but no fancy items like smoked salmon (except for one night). Most vegetables were canned or frozen but grilled fresh fish and meats were generally good. Buffet counters did not seem refrigerated and there was no AC in the buffet room, so I would recommend hitting the buffet early. A la carte restaurants were generally a better and more pleasant option. The beach grill in the evening had the nicest setting, directly on the beach with nice sunset views. The 24-hour snack bar was very average (dry burgers and sandwiches with French fries). Shortages would affect mostly fresh vegetables, no diet soft drinks available, limited imported alcohols, etc. There was lobster on one night and lunch at the buffet and at the beach grill in the evening. Most restaurants and bars had great live musicians in the evening, which we loved. Tips seemed better appreciated in USD or CAD bills. SPORTS: the gym is ok and there were some water sports but tennis steals the show here. The resort has 3 tennis courts and a full time tennis pro, Pedro, for lessons or just playing. Pedro is an excellent coach and player and we really enjoyed playing with him; he really helped me improve my game. In fact we would go back to this resort just for this reason. I would recommend bringing your own racket (and a few balls that you could leave behind if you wish).

Loved the atmosphere The entertainers do a great job at getting people involved Much respect to everyone the works there I plan on going back to this exact resort Great for couples solos and groups The staff go out of there way to make sure your well takin care of

Just a first class resort and not just by Cuba standards. Yes the food variety is lacking, but the food is fresh well stocked and delicious. Some of the a la carte restaurant are on the world scale with presentation and flavor. Always a good time to be had the entertainment staff is always hard at work. Every morning you find the on the beach with a variety of activities like salsa dance lessons, water aerobics. The mini putt course has real golf course greens grass. There was shooting competition. Though I was in no state to handle a firearm. In the afternoon the entertainment team is hosting a variety of games by the pool where they really get the party going. Lets not forget the prize you can win for participating. Again with dancing and an in the pool work out with exercise bike. Where you can here the staff practice for the nightly entertainment shows. That actually have variety, a magic show one night and dancing another to a crowd inclusive show the next. Where the prize for the winner is also a bottle of rum. A great balance of party fun and quiet if that's what your looking for. All around one of if not the best resort in Cuba!

Amazing service. The rooms are beautiful We had Laura and Leo as our concierge for the trip and it was phenomenal. From casual conversations to helping us get the best out of our time in Cuba and reccomendations, we could not have asked for a better experience!

Excellent stay at Royalton Hicacos, supported by several key personnel. Thanks to both Bryan and Reinier for their efforts in organizing some key events for us. Cuba has it’s challenges, fortunately they are minimized at this resort. A special thanks to Jose Martin, his level of attention was exceptional, and I enjoyed discussing both the Euro and Copa America with him. ???? ???? Andre M