Altos de Chavón

This week, on our tour of the Dominican Republic, we decided to work our way down to the southern coast to one of the country’s largest and most scenic cities: La Romana. More specifically, the village of Altos de Chavón.

Where is Altos de Chavón?

Situated on the banks of the Chavón River in La Romana, Altos de Chavón is one of the most popular travel destinations in the Dominican Republic. Altos de Chavón is a recreated Mediterranean village that allows travelers to experience the idyllic atmosphere of Greece and Spain. Altos de Chavón was created in 1976 by Jose Antonio Caro. The village is often regarded as a masterwork of architecture. At Altos de Chavón, travelers can enjoy a wide range of activities while admiring their surroundings.

Mediterranean Vibes

Altos de Chavón successfully tricks visitors into feeling like they are visiting a quiet Mediterranean village. This is largely due to the combination of the warm climate of La Romana and impressive 16th century architecture. The streets and alleyways of Altos de Chavón are paved with cobblestones. At night, these paths are lit with lanterns that hang from posts and wall fixtures. These elements complement the limestone architecture of the village’s many buildings. Many of these limestone buildings serve as fine dining establishments throughout the day. Visitors can stop by one of these restaurants to enjoy a large variety of Mediterranean cuisine. Some of the most popular cuisine options are Italian, Greek, and Moroccan. If the beautiful architecture and food isn’t enough to make a traveler feel as if they are in southern Europe, then the shops will surely do the trick. Throughout Altos de Chavón, travelers can find a large array of shops and boutiques that sell crafts and artwork that would be sold in Mediterranean countries during the 16th century.

Events

Altos de Chavón has an amphitheater that many popular entertainers have performed at. In the past, musicians like Frank Sinatra, Alicia Keys, and Elton John performed for massive audiences in Altos de Chavón. Popular entertainers perform for Altos de Chavón’s visitors throughout the year, so there is never a shortage of great entertainment in La Romana.

Resorts

Travelers who enjoy being pampered can select to stay at one of the many luxury resorts near Altos de Chavón. Many of these resorts offer stunning views of the picturesque Chavón River and the surrounding landscape. Travelers who decide to stay at a resort in Altos de Chavón can also enjoy many activities, including golf and spa visits. Comfortable accommodations and delicious dining options are also available.

Places of Interest

Altos de Chavón School of Design

Since Altos de Chavón is the result of architectural brilliance, it should come as no surprise that the village is also the home of a major design school. Altos de Chavón School of Design has many architectural galleries that the public can enjoy.

Archaeological Museum

There is also a rather notable archaeological museum within Altos de Chavón. This museum has a collection of over 3,000 pre-Colombian artifacts. This is a major resource for people interested in the history and culture of the Dominican Republic.

Church of St. Stanilaus

The Church of St. Stanilaus has beautiful architecture that blends in with the rest of Altos de Chavón. Visitors often use this popular Catholic church for weddings and sightseeing.

Altos de Chavón allows travelers to experience the peaceful atmosphere of a 16th century Mediterranean village in the warm climate of La Romana. With plenty of things to do, a trip to Altos de Chavón is rewarding for travelers with various preferences.