Sightseeing in Isla Margarita - what to see. Complete travel guide

The island of Margarita is a world-class resort center. It is located near the mainland of Venezuela. More than a hundred exquisite resort hotels are equipped here for holidaymakers. The total length of the beaches is more than 300 kilometers. You will find both luxurious resorts and those available to a wide range of tourists. It will be incorrect to characterize the island exclusively in terms of beaches, since it has a rich historical heritage and is a location of important cultural centers.

In the city of La Asuncion is located one of the most important historical symbols of the island - Santa Rosa fortress (Castillo de Santa Rosa). Its construction was completed in 1681. For many years the fortress was the main stronghold for local residents and a symbol of independence. Subsequently, a powerful fortification structure repeatedly changed its status and served long as a prison. No less interesting monument of history is a fortress of San Carlos Borromeo (Castillo de San Carlos Borromeo), which was also built in the late 17th century. It is located in the central area of the port city of Pampatar. The fortress was erected to defend the city from corsairs' attacks.

Fans of history should necessarily visit Fort La Galera, a monument of a later period. The fort is located in Juan Griego Bay. It was built in the early 19th century, after Venezuela gained independence. Despite its relatively small age, the fort has witnessed many important historical events and bloody battles, which the island's guests will certainly be told during the excursion. The territory of the fort is equipped with magnificent observation platforms. Many come here to watch the setting sun Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Another great way to appreciate the panorama of the city is to visit the ancient lighthouse of Punta Balena. It is located near the fort. Visiting the lighthouse is traditionally free. From the observation deck on its top, open one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the island.

There are also outstanding religious sites, among which is a beautiful church of the Virgin of El Vaie (La Iglesia de la Virgen de Valle). It is located in a picturesque area with a very original name - the Valley of the Holy Spirit (El Valle del Espíritu Santo). Local fishermen and navigators have long considered El Valle de Mar their patroness. Annually, very beautiful and solemn holidays are held in the church, where guests from all the surrounding islands arrive.

The island has a huge number of interesting museums. In the city of Boca de Rio you can visit the Museum of the Sea (Museo Marino). The exposition of the museum is very extensive, there are skeletons of long extinct marine life, rich collections of typical representatives of the Caribbean and ancient devices of fishermen, as well as important historical documents and sea maps.

A trip to the Ethnographic Museum of Pueblos de Margarita (Museo Pueblos de Margarita), which is located in the immediate vicinity of the city of Juan Griego, promises to be interesting. It is a large village, built in the style of the early 19th century. Each cottage is a miniature museum dedicated to the culture and life of a certain island settlement. On the territory of the museum there is an excellent restaurant, a beautiful chapel, as well as a real plant for the production of rum.

We can't but mention natural attractions of the island. It houses a beautiful Cerro El Copey National Park, which covers an extensive mountainous area. On the territory of the park beautiful recreation areas, observation platforms and many paths for walks are equipped for tourists. The Laguna de la Restinga National Park (Laguna de la Restinga) is no less extensive and fascinating.

Isla Margarita has simply outstanding infrastructure for beach recreation and all kinds of sport. The total length of local beaches is more than 160 kilometers. The island has both calm and windy beaches. Surfers usually prefer to head to El Yaque Beach. This beach has several elite surfing schools that are owned by famous sportsmen.

Vacationers, who do not want to surf and want to stick to usual swimming and sunbathing, will find El Agua Beach perfectly suitable. The length of this beach is roughly 4 kilometers. This part of the coast is covered with soft golden sand. The beach is also famous for its gorgeous nature. The northern part of the island is the location of one more awesome beach, Caribe. This is a charming place suitable for fans of calm beaches that are almost never crowded. Even in the peak of the tourist season, the territory of this beach always has a charming place for tourists craving serenity and seclusion.