Valle de los Ingenios
The Valley of the Sugar Mills is one of Trinidad and Cuba’s largest sources of income and garnered immense wealth for Trinidad with its rich sugar mills. While the focus of sugar-farming shifted west during the period of the War of Independence and the Spanish-Cuban-American War, the valley still maintains an important historical presence, as well as the natural beauty of both Cuba and Trinidad.
The history of the Valle de los Ingenios
The Valle de los Ingenios or the ‘Valley of the Sugar Mills’ was a major centre in sugar production in the 18th and 19th centuries. This production centre was made up of a series of three interconnected valleys which were responsible for a large portion of sugar production in Cuba and Trinidad, which is a mere 12 kilometres from the valleys. The sugar plantations employed slaves in the various sectors of the production process.
In the late 19th century, the valley was all but destroyed by the War of Independence and the Spanish-Cuban-American War. The remnants of dozens of 19th century sugar mills, warehouses, machinery, manors, steam trains and slave quarters remain, and have been converted into the San Isidro de los Destiladeros Museum, which can be visited by the public. The site was inscribed as an UNESCO Site in 1988.
Accomodation near the Valle de los Ingenios
The Valley of the Sugar Mills is a mere 12 kilometres away from Trinidad, so if you want to experience everything Cuba has to offer while still enjoying the traditional Trinidad living, then consider staying at a comfortable casa in the heart of Trinidad. There are a number of hacienda hotels, travel resorts and even backpacking lodges nearby, so no matter what your budget or your preference - you can rest assured that you will find an idyllic accommodation near this intriguing landmark.
Attractions near the Valle de los Ingenios
The Valley of the Sugar Mills is an important historical landmark in both Cuba and Trinidad’s history. There are a number of museums which have been established in restorations of the sugar mills ruins, as well as in the haciendas and estates of former sugar merchants. Visit the Casa Guachinango or the Sitio Guáimaro and take a look into the stately living of some of the region’s wealthiest men. On the other hand, tours are available for tourists who want to see the entire sugar mills including the slave quarters and the factories that made for tenuous working conditions. Broaden your horizons and explore Trinidad and all of its iconic glory. Horseback tours are a popular choice for visitors who want to explore the UNESCO Site, as well as to experience the natural beauty, industrial heritage and rugged culture first hand. Colourful ruins and beautiful landscapes shadowed by the Escambray Mountains and the swaying palm trees make this a must see destination for anyone interested in history and Cuban culture.
Tours to experience this highlight
