Santo Domingo to Mediterranean Villages: Private day trip

Altos de Chavón is unlike anywhere else in the Dominican Republic. In 1976, blasting for a nearby road and bridge left behind a mountain of stone, which Charles Bludhorn, chairman of Gulf+Western, had the idea of using to create a replica 16th century style Mediterranean village. Designed by Dominican architect, Jose Antonio Caro, and Italian master designer and cinematographer, Roberto Coppa, the village was hand-crafted by local artisans, and now serves as a cultural center for artists and tourists from around the world. Lunch on Mediterranean cuisine before perusing the quaint shops offering the craftwork of local artisans, and three art galleries featuring work by students from the Altos de Chavón School of Design, an affiliate of the Parsons School of Design in New York. There’s also an archaeological museum, and even a 5,000-seat amphitheater, which was christened by Frank Sinatra himself. Please note: Altos de Chavón is currently only open to Casa de Campo residents, scheduled photo sessions, educational visits and excursions organized by tour operators. For more information please visit https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/altos-de-chavon/