Our Selective group of 26 travel friends known as the Sunshine Group, once again visited Cuba for our annual escape from winter, for most it was their 10th year in a row and this year the Group opted to stay at the Hotel Roc Barlavento... what a great decision it was.....On behalf of the Sunshine Group i wish to extend the Groups collective satisfaction with the overall hospitality and gracious welcome we received by the Hotel management and staff.
Most of the Group was somewhat apprehensive at first, so let’s me start from the beginning, Our flight was delayed by several hours, arriving very early in the morning, the staff at the reception along with the bellhops worked at great pace to have our Group settled in their rooms. From this moment on our trip became exceptional.... Being that our Group is made of early risers they all took in the opportunity to view and familiarise themselves with the Hotel grounds...they were all amazed with the cleanliness of all the public areas, the immaculately kept grounds, the grass and shrubs neatly cut, the pool chairs neatly placed in perfection, the same situation could be found at the snack bar, the terrace and lobby. The friendliness of the entire staff and eager attitude to help was genuine and unexpected.
The cleanliness of the rooms, ample supply of towels and rapid response to our requests was also worthy of mention.
Although Cuba is not known for having ample supply of food, this was definitely not the case at the Roc Barlavento, there was more than enough in quantity, in quality and selection, from seafood to meats you had a choice, salades and past was never in shortage and the deserts, unbelievable.
To mention a few of the staff, Pedro the Batman at the Snack-bar, Livan and Legna from the animation team, Ramon the DJ with a great selection of music, Juana-Maria and Daisy at the Buffet, Lazarito and Mike lobby Bar and Sandy and Mali from housekeeping to mention a few. There are many more but too little time to remember all of their names including the live bands. The chefs and Staff at à la carte restaurants were fabulous, the Fusion International has great salmon, the Fusion Sushi for Cuba, what a treat and the Fusion Mexican completed the package.
There was always enough beach chairs with a helper who was amazing in setting up the chairs, cleaning them and keeping eye on them for us when we were swimming or just went for a snack, this gave us an added feeling of security.
My review would not be complete without mentioning Natalie responsable for public relations and the Hotel manager Klaus, who both took the time to greet us and ask how we are enjoying ourselves and if they there is anything that they can do...what an incredible team.
As mentioned, our Sunshine Group consists of 25 regular members who all had a great vacation experience at the Hotel Roc Barlavento, one individual who attended the trip but does not belong to our Group found that the 2 weeks was too long but for the 25 others we were ready to stay for another week if not 2....
As such the Sunshine Group of 25 members rates the Roc Barlavento 4 stars and cannot wait for our return next February. We strongly recommend this hotel located at the very beginning of Vareader, shops and entertainment are only a few steps away...go there without any expectations and enjoy your stay and experience....

Keep in mind where you are and you'll be happy.Front desk will take care of any concerns.Treat the locals with respect &courtesy and they'll do the same.Food very good and variety always changing.2 ela carte restaurants,outdoor patio where they have the best hamburgers and fries.Great entertainment,games,2 pools etc.No children allowed under 16.All in all a great vacation.Thankyou CUBA!!!!!!This was trip #4

Over the last 20 years, we have vacationed in Cuba 17 times. When resorts are rated 4 or 5 star it is not what we are used to here in Canada. We go to Cuba for the beaches, the Cubans are the kindest people and the beautiful weather. These are things that stood out for us, the good and the bad.
We found staff more interested in selling cigars and bottles of booze while on the beach, getting a drink at the bar, or lying by the pool.
Music was so loud at the night shows that between 9:15pm - 11:15pm , if we chose to skip the show we would have to put headphones on or turn up the air conditioning to blur out the music in order to sleep.
The beach is one big ashtray for guests, butting out on the beach and sticking them in the sand. The amount of garbage on the beach with plastic glasses, straws, cristal beer cans is disgusting.
From the first night, the resort only had rosee wine and never did have white or red wine for the ten days. Had to buy beer down by the beach, I thought this was all-inclusive!
When asked for more bath towels in our room, with reluctance, a hand towel was given on numerous occasions.
The main boardwalk to the beach was blocked at both ends with beach chairs the ten days we were there. Staff were using boardwalk but guests were not allowed.
Rooms are not ready until 4pm so if you arrive to the resort prior to that you have to leave your luggage in an unsecured area, the front lobby, where no one is keeping an eye on your bags. Did not feel comfortable leaving luggage unattended.
Most of the Staff were friendly, especially Iris in the dining room and Miguel at the lobby bar.
We had warm water for showers everyday. Always able to find a beach chair or pool chair during the day.
The entertainment staff were very good, always trying to get guests involved.
Food was very bland and after speaking to other guests, restaurants in the area were suggested. I would suggest eating at Kikis, one block down from the resort and also the Pink Cow on 21st street... worth the few blocks walk!! (And they had red & white wine!!)
Our next vacation to Cuba will NOT be at this resort.... very disappointed.