I read lots of reviews when considering properties, so I wanted to leave a few words about our recent week at Sierra Mar for others who do the same. For context, we’re a retired couple on our 9th trip to Cuba, each to a different destination. I will assume you understand the peculiarities of Cuba as a destination - otherwise that’s a whole other discussion...
The bus trip to and from the airport was 80 minutes and reasonably comfortable. Room keys were provided before boarding. The setting of the hotel overlooking the mountains (sierra) and ocean (mar) is truly stunning. The facility is interestingly integrated into a hillside and must have been very impressive when it was new – still is really - but it is showing its age when you look too closely. Never a problem though. They do their best to keep things clean and working. The grounds are well-kept and pleasant. Elevators are essential and worked all the time we were there. Some major repairs will be necessary sooner than later but for now, it's acceptable.
Food was okay and occasionally quite good. Water comes from their own well and is drinkable right from the tap. Our room (135) was fine and the balcony overlooking the ocean was quite nice. I didn’t pay for the ocean-view upgrade and it doesn’t seem necessary. The beach was better than expected but as expected, the beach loungers are old and often all taken by guest who insist on reserving them for the day with towels. No bug bites though. Service at all the bars was good including at the two beach bars. Live entertainment at the beach restaurant was consistently good and a bit more hit and miss in the lobby bar. We didn’t attend any of the evening shows.
The guests appeared to be mostly retired budget-driven folks, many on multi-week return visits. The few younger people were mostly there with older family. There were no groups of loud, drunk twenty somethings as can happen in some resorts. Consequently, the pool area was calm and relaxing with music at reasonable levels when it was even on. Typical day excursions (city, catamaran, off-road) are available at fees that seemed okay. We’ve done such things and opted instead to arrange with a doorman for a taxi to/back from the nearby town (Chivirico) for dinner one day and lunch another day. Both restaurants were entirely authentic and quite good. Daytime is better.
Let me close by saying that one of the greatest joys of Cuba is the Cuban people themselves. While tips are always welcome, many things made outside the country aren’t available or are very limited in choice. Search on “gifts to bring to cuba” and top up your suitcase accordingly.
Hope this helps…