Launched as a hotel for the Cuban masses three decades ago, this austere concrete Bauhaus structure is of a joyless Soviet design seen throughout Cuba. It rises three stories over the east end of Playa Ancón, a lovely white sand beach that it shares with the neighboring and more appealing Hotel Brisas Trinidad del Mar. The turquoise shallows here offer good snorkeling but have lots of sea grasses and in summer are occasionally infested with microscopic sea lice that locals call agua mala. Taxis await custom for excursions to the nearby town of Trinidad, which can also be reached on a regular shuttle.

Guests should be prepared for poor service and relatively Spartan decor, despite having been refurbished as an all-inclusive for the tourist trade. It is used primarily by package tour groups from Europe and Canada. The lobby – spacious and airy – sets a good initial tone and has a small gift store, games room, and tour desks. A high point, the huge swimming pool to one side is flanked by spacious sundecks, although the beach offers more appeal. Alas, the buffet restaurant and specialty Italian restaurant both offer ho-hum fare at best, and food here is one of the most consistent weak links.

Nor do bedrooms shine. In fact, the decor seems a carry over from Soviet days, with frumpy fabrics, second-rate mattresses and utilitarian furniture. At least guests get satellite TV. Overall this is one of the least appealing beach hotels in the country. The best that can be said for this hotel is that it offers scuba certification and runs superb dive trips.