Barefoot Caribbean luxury

Cayo Guillermo Resort Kempinski

The location for our new Cuban paradise was inspired by Ernest Hemingway and his love for the Cayes coral islands. Situated in a vast tropical garden between mangroves, wild palms and beach, Cayo Guillermo Resort Kempinski comprises 222 rooms and 23 suites positioned between huge swimming pools and the ocean. Most of the rooms look out over the water.

But it’s the resort’s private access to Playa Pilar that makes it a true Caribbean dream. With 500 metres of fine white sand fringed with palm trees, and calm water in myriad shades of turquoise, it’s little wonder that Playa Pilar has been voted one of world’s top 25 best beaches.

The terrace of a water villa, with infinity pool and private jetty.

There are so many ways to relax here. Go snorkelling, or sip a margarita at Nuevo Floridita - the hotel's beach bar. Take out a glass-bottomed boat and marvel at the fish and corals on the reefs, or tuck into grilled lobster on the little island opposite.

All rooms look out either to sea or the swimming pools and each villa has its own private pool.

If you've chosen one of the resort's seven water villas, resting on the sea in the hidden Punta El Morro bay, you can slip straight from your private jetty into the warm, crystal-clear water. Or maybe you'd rather dive into your private pool with its unobstructed view of the Caribbean Sea. The most impressive of these water villas is the Presidential Suite. Built from exotic wood, it has an infinity pool and a vast bathroom open to the terrace and the horizon.

Cayo Guillermo Resort Kempinski is an unparalleled experience of barefoot luxury for families, groups of friends, or couples alike. Its host of activities include water sports and shoreline yoga, as well as sommelier masterclasses on Cuba’s famous cigars and rum. And make sure you take a jeep safari through the Loma de Cunagua and the Jardines Del Rey - an archipelago of a dozen interconnected islands where ibis and pink flamingoes thrive.

The large pool in the resort's tropical garden.

The resort's spa, tucked away in a secret garden bursting with exotic flowers, is a village within a village. Relax beside the whirlpool or one of the two outdoor pools. Enjoy a massage in the open air, caressed by a warm breeze. Or you can opt for the comfort and luxury of one of the four massage booths.

The resort makes a perfect setting for a romantic wedding, or other celebrations and events, offering indoor and outdoor spaces - including the beach - and a private dining room with stunning views. A dedicated events team will look after all your needs.

The lobby opens out onto the tropical garden. At sundown, golden light floods the room to the delight of guests.

Lively or laid-back cool; beside the pool or by the beach, the resort’s three restaurants and five bars provide lots of dining options. Of course you’re guaranteed the Kempinski signature of excellent international cuisine that showcases fresh local produce.

The terrace of the hotel's Nuevo Floridita, a beach bar and restaurant looking out over beach and sea to the far horizon.

Gourmet seafood restaurant El Emperador serves uniquely Cuban dishes à la carte, to be enjoyed indoors or outside in the balmy evening. After dinner, head to Las Dunas Lobby Bar or the Hemmingway Cigar Bar & Lounge to enjoy a glass of 20-year-old rum or a Cuba libre to the sound of live salsa - irresistible Cuban ambience guaranteed.

Far from the hustle and bustle of lively Havana, Cayo Guillermo Resort Kempinski is a secluded retreat where the staff, like Cuba itself, are always friendly and smiling.

The water villas at sunset. Peace and quiet in the private bay of Punta El Morro, at the tip of Cayo Guillermo island.