Altos de Chavón
La Romana
Sculpted in stone, the Mediterranean-inspired village of Altos de Chavón showcases how the Dominican Republic might have looked in the 16th century. Built in 1976 by a team of local artisans, the La Romana village houses restaurants, shops, an archaeology museum, and a 5,000-seat amphitheater.
Altos de Chavón offers a great introduction to the culture and history of the Dominican Republic. City tours of La Romana typically include a stop here, along with Casa de Campo and a local cigar factory. It’s also possible to visit the town on half-day trips from Punta Cana, day trips that stop at Saona Island or Catalina Island, and cruises on the Chavón River.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the village has limited shade.
- Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the village is full of cobbled sidewalks and streets.
- Visitors are required to show a valid passport.
- The village is free for guests of Casa de Campo; non-guests are required to pay an entrance fee.
The easiest way to get to Altos de Chavón is to drive to Casa de Campo Resort or to join a tour that includes round-trip transport. The resort is a 50-minute drive from Punta Cana International Airport and a 5-minute drive from its own La Romana International Airport.
Each business at Altos de Chavón maintains their own hours, typically from mid-morning to late evening. St. Stanislaus Church hosts mass on Saturday and Sunday evenings, as well as on the first Friday of every month. The village is particularly romantic at night, when the stone plazas and verandas are illuminated in golden light.
Casa de Campo Resort isn’t the only place worth visiting in the area near La Romana. Spend some time exploring the fishing town of Bayahíbe, known for its distinct Dominican vibe and beachfront bars. For a break from the beach, try the Bayahíbe Rose Garden or Casa Ponce de León, the former home of the 16th-century Spanish explorer. Outdoors enthusiasts can hike the Padre Nuestro Ecological Trail.
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