DK Travel : Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a country of surprising contrasts and extraordinary variety. From the chilly peak of the Caribbean’s highest mountain to some of the region’s most delightful beaches, the country boasts lush valleys, spectacular waterfalls, and sun-baked deserts. The past and present also blend in a fascinating mix of colonial buildings and modern hotels, sleepy rural villages and lively tourist resorts. The people, too, reflect a kaleidoscope of influences — Spanish, African, indigenous — creating a culture that emphasizes both creativity and fun in the fields of music, sport, and art.

La Churcha, Samaná

This red-roofed NonConformist church is made of prefabricated parts, sent from England by Methodists in 1823 to cater for English-speaking former slaves from North America who settled here under Haitian rule.
La Ciénega

The tiny rural village of La Ciénega de Manaboa is the starting point for the popular hike to the summit of Pico Duarte. The office for Parque Nacional Armando Bermúdez is situated to the north of the village, and it is obligatory to register here and hire a guide. There is a rudimentary camping ground by the park office, where some climbers spend the night before setting off early the next morning. The Ciénega Trail is about 28 miles (45 kms) and usually takes a minimum of three days.
La Herradura

Good, hearty food from sandwiches to pasta, fish and meat is served in a ranch-style restaurant with rustic decor. Live music at weekends.
La Isabela

The site of Columbus’s first permanent settlement in the Americas is full of historic interest and natural beauty. Looking out over the Atlantic Ocean, the bluff where the explorer established a European toehold contains the foundations of a warehouse, chapel, and rudimentary hospital. The Parque Nacional La Isabela museum explains the site’s significance, while the cemetery nearby is an atmospheric patch of tomb-stones and acacia trees (see La Isabela Bay).
La Isabela

The museum at the Parque Nacional Histórico La Isabela highlights the everyday life in a Taino village. Outside are examples of an indigenous bohío or thatched dwelling, and gardens containing staple crops grown by Taino communities.
La Isabela Bay

The place where European colonization of the Americas really began, the beautiful bay reveals the story of Columbus’s first settlement. Other highlights include some wonderful beaches such as Playa Isabela and Punta Rucia Beach.
La Loma

Clinging to the hillside, with panoramic views, this hotel is difficult to get to, but good for both snacks and meals.
La Otra Banda

This sleepy one-street village is popular with Costa del Coco excursionists, largely because of its bright and photogenic wooden houses, built by immigrants from the Canary Islands.
La Parrillada Steak House

This restaurant is on a busy road, but at night you don’t notice that. A variety of meat dishes are on offer in pleasant indoor and outdoor settings.
La Résidence, Santo Domingo

This recently restored stone house of the former governor Nicolás de Ovando is now a luxury hotel, offering a romantic gourmet dining experience. The early 16th-century mansion oozes with Spanish colonial history. Savor Mediterranean-style dishes here.

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