CubaPLUS Magazine

Located in the western province of Artemisa, a little more than a decade ago belonging to Havana, Soroa is one of the most seductive tourist destinations in the country, especially since it enjoys the endorsement of being a Biosphere Reserve, by decision of UNESCO.

Although the word Soroa seems to come from the Arawak language, it is not of such origin.

The place acquired the name of the surname of two brothers of Hispanic origin: Lorenzo and Antonio Soroa Muñagorri, who lived in the area since the mid-19th century, with the purpose of "making America" to possibly return to the peninsula with fortune.

Owners of the La Merced, Neptuno, San Luis and San Ramón de Aguas Claras coffee plantations, over time this meant that the area was named after the last name of the owners.

However, in reality, such brothers were not more famous than the beauty of the natural ecosystem that prevailed there, a valley located on the abrupt limits of the Sierra del Rosario with beautiful views, surrounded by rivers and mountains.

Among its attractions is El Salto, a waterfall that is not too spectacular due to its length, but it is due to the beautiful place where it is located, in the middle of very lush tropical vegetation, a point from which fascinating landscapes can be seen.

It also has the backwater that represents the so-called Castle in the Clouds, a hostel with comfortable service. It is currently a hotel that offers visitors beautiful views in a paradisiacal site.

Enchanting is the Eden of the Orchid garden of Soroa, of national and international fame. What began in the mid-20th century as a family garden dedicated to orchids, in honor of two women, soon surpassed the holding of domestic species and imported exotic varieties from Asia, Central and South America.

Currently it has in its 35,000 square meters, more than 20,000 specimens of 700 species of this delicate flower. It is also a productive scientific center belonging to the University of Pinar del Río, dedicated to the conservation and promotion of the environment, in all its splendor. Of course, it is a privileged site for orchids.