You may need a wallet of gold to access the river of gold resort by Meliá. Oft touted as Cuba's best resort, this 356-room resort shines with a five-star pedigree. There's cliffside massage, a Japanese restaurant floating on a koi pond, and garden villas with private pools. Palm groves and thick foliage keep the property protected and private. Adults only.
While it is promoted as an eco-resort, its only sustainable distinction is keeping the property forested. High rollers should bid for the newer luxury area within the compound, featuring only several hundred rooms. Also enticing is the Royal Service Garden Villa Room, with private pool, watchtower, sauna and private entrance – yours for only CUC$2287 per night.
Nonguests can get a day pass for CUC$115.