La Romana Has It All
LA ROMANA
In the 1970s, the largest sugar mill in the Americas diversified and opened the resort of Casa de Campo, famous for its world class golf and the artists’ village of Altos de Chavón, featuring galleries and shops. While golf put La Romana on the tourism map, most visitors today come for the beaches and the comfort of its resorts.
Bayahibe is the gateway to Saona Island in the National Park of the East, the most visited natural attraction in the country. It is the land of the rare Bayahibe Rose, a cactus-shrub that in 2011 was named the National Flower.
The Casa de Campo International Airport and the Casa de Campo Tourist Port are the main ports of entry.
ALTOS DE CHAVÓN
A replica of a 16th century Mediterranean village, this La Romana landmark is sculpted in stone. Its Stanislaus Church overlooks Chavón River and is in demand for weddings. Construction of Altos de Chavón began in 1976. It would open in 1982 with a memorable Frank Sinatra concert at its 5,000-seat amphitheater. World performers on tour continue to perform there, especially on long weekends in the Dominican Republic. Today, the village is the setting for restaurants, precious jewelry, art, crafts and cigars. The Altos de Chavón Archaeological Museum displays the indigenous culture of the area. The views over the river and the Dye Fore golf course that extends onto the horizon make for fabulous photography. Visitors who are not guests at the Casa de Campo resort may book a tour or pay the entrance fee.
You can even enjoy dinner, bars, and shopping while overlooking the Chavón River. www.altosdechavon.com
