From Cajobabo in the southern coast of the Guantánamo province to Baracoa in the northern coast, roughly 60 kilometres (37 miles) along La Farola road. The maximum altitude reached on this road is about 550 meters above sea level. This is certainly a demanding route, with steep uphill and downhill stretches, for well-trained cyclists used to mountain routes.
La Farola is a unique road in Cuba. Completed in 1964, it is about 60 km (37 miles) long and impressive both from an engineering perspective and because of its natural surroundings. It starts in the arid southern coast of the Guantanamo province, near Playita de Cajobabo, the historical site where José Marti, the great Cuban liberator disembarked in 1895. There is a monument and a museum on site. From there, La Farola meanders up the Sierra del Purial mountains, in the Nipe-Sagua-Baracoa range, zigzagging among the abundant flora that shifts from cactus and other succulents to mango trees, royal palms (Cuba's national tree) and a variety of other fruit trees, numerous species of ferns and then to pine trees when you reach the higher points. On either side of the road you'll see cliffs and water streams. Elementary schools, country folk and horses appear from time to time, as well as ladies selling bananas, mangoes, zapotes, pineapples, mandarins, and... cucuruchos! A traditional sweet made with grated coconut, guava and other fruits according to the season, ecologically wrapped in palm frond. Cucuruchos are very good to replenish energies. Some family homes along the road sell freshly brewed Cuban coffee, or chocolate bars made with fresh cocoa from the region, or a typical drink in Cuba's eastern region (originally brought here by Haitian migrants) named "pru" and made out of several herbs and spices - delicious! You will notice that Cuban people are friendly and likable. La Farola's maximum altitude is roughly 500 meters above sea level. On your way down the other side of Sierra del Purial, the road descends amidst luxuriant greenery, with bridges above water streams and ravines, including the legendary Miel river (Honey river). When you reach again sea level, Baracoa reveals itself, luminous, hit by the waves and caressed by the breeze, bustling and musical. Near here, there was another historical disembarking in 1895 - that of Antonio Maceo, the Bronze Titan, another great Cuban liberator. An obelisk commemorates the event. You will have accomplished a significant cycling deed and you will arrive full of great pictures taken and unforgettable moments.