Many travelers dream of walking the cobblestone streets of Altos de Chavón. They feel lost when they see so many art galleries and landmarks and donât know which spots to choose.
Altos de Chavón is a 16th-century Mediterranean village replica on the Chavón River in La Romana, Dominican Republic. This guide shows the best art galleries, St. Stanislaus Church visits, dining spots, and tips on booking a Day Tour in an air-conditioned vehicle.
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Key Takeaways
- Altos de Chavón rose from 1976 to the early 1980s as Charles Bluhdornâs Mediterraneanâstyle artistsâ village, conceived by set designer Roberto Coppa, with stone from local quarries shaping its cobblestone streets and terracotta walls.
- The open-air amphitheater seats 5,000 guests and opened in 1982 with the Concert for the Americas; nearby stands St. Stanislaus Church (built 1979) and the Regional Archaeological Museum, which displays over 3,000 TaÃno artifacts.
- The Altos de Chavón School of Design launched in 1983 in partnership with Parsons School of Design, offering two-year programs and shorter classes in fashion, film, and fine arts, plus on-site galleries and craft workshops.
- Travelers reach Altos de Chavón in about 50 minutes from Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) or Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ); the dry season (NovemberâApril) offers warm days and fewer crowds, while guided day tours depart at 8 AM for eight hours and carry up to 36 guests.
History of Altos de Chavón
In 1979, Charles Bluhdorn envisioned a stone settlement above the Chavón River as a jewel for Casa de Campo. Architects fused Mediterranean design with local crafts to frame each arch and paved lane.
The Vision Behind the Village
European set designer Roberto Coppa conceived Altos de Chavón as a living canvas at Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic. Charles Bluhdorn envisioned a vibrant artistsâ village that would echo the charm of St.
Paul de Vence in France.
Construction began in 1976 and wrapped up by the early 1980s. Workers used stones unearthed during road work along the Chavón River to craft cobblestone streets and terracotta walls.
Construction and Architectural Influence
Builders started work on Altos de Chavón in 1976. They used stones blasted from local quarries in La Romana. Stonemasons shaped each block with chisels. Workers lifted heavy rocks with cranes and scaffolding.
Surveyors aligned walls with laser levels. Engineers applied CAD modeling for structural arches. The team finished construction by the early 1980s.
Designers fused Italian Renaissance arches, Tuscan Romanesque vaults, and Baroque details. Architects added Spanish Colonial balconies on coral-covered buildings. Cobblestone streets weave through plazas.
Tourists stand on overlooks that face the Caribbean Sea and Chavón River. The site shines as a top example of Mediterranean architecture in the Dominican Republic.
Must-See Attractions in Altos de Chavón
Cobblestone streets lead to an open-air theater perched high above the Chavón River. Art lovers then climb to a hilltop chapel and an artifact hall filled with TaÃno pottery.
The Amphitheater
This Greek-style venue in Altos de Chavón seats 5,000 guests on terraced stone benches along the Chavón River. Italian and Mediterranean architecture inspired its design when Charles Bludhorn led construction.
It opened in 1982 for the Concert for the Americas. Frank Sinatra, Carlos Santana and Marc Anthony each brought crowds to its stage.
Local staff maintain top-notch sound engineering and stage lighting for every show in Casa de Campo. Travelers from Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) reach Altos de Chavón via scenic drives along the Chavón River road.
Art lovers discover art galleries and craft workshops near the amphitheaterâs plaza. The open-air design glows under Caribbean stars in La Romana, Dominican Republic.
St. Stanislaus Church
Altos de Chavón in the dominican republic features a Gothic coral stone church built in 1979. José Antonio Caro and Roberto Coppa designed pointed arches and sturdy buttresses. Masons shaped giant blocks with chisels and wooden scaffolding.
Visitors admire its medieval feel on cobblestone streets in La Romana.
Guests book weddings and religious services at the st. stanislaus church that houses the ashes of the saint. Tour leaders point out stained glass scenes above the stone altar. Historic guides recount its 1982 inauguration near the Chavón River.
Artists sketch its spire against a bright Caribbean sky.
Regional Archaeological Museum
This museum sits inside the alt0s de chavón village in La Romana, Dominican Republic. It traces over 4,000 years of Indigenous history along the Chavón River. It holds more than 3,000 artifacts from TaÃno pottery to ceremonial tools.
It opens Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
School groups explore displays during guided tours that cover ancient crafts. Educators access lesson plans that tie into local culture. Each exhibit uses clear labels and touchscreen kiosks for deeper study.
Visitors pair visits here with nearby art galleries and craft workshops.
Art and Culture at Altos de Chavón
Young artists train with clay and brush strokes at the Altos de Chavón School of Design. I tried clay sculpting tools under a masterâs friendly guidance in a bright studio.
The Altos de Chavón School of Design
Altos de Chavón School of Design opened in 1983 in the Dominican Republic. It partners with Parsons School of Design in New York City. The school offers two-year programs or shorter classes in fashion design, film studies, and fine arts.
The campus hugs the Chavón River and showcases rustic brick walkways and Mediterranean architecture.
Graduates earn diplomas and win prizes at city art galleries. They craft collections in studios equipped with Adobe Photoshop, drawing tablets, and digital cameras. An on-site art gallery and craft workshops display local paintings and handcrafted jewelry.
Each studio taps into Caribbean color and lime-washed stone to spark fresh ideas.
Dining and Nightlife
Firelight dances on stone walls as I sip a mango mojito at an Italian trattoria beside the Chavón River. Fly JetBlue into PUJ and join a live merengue show under the stars.
Top Restaurants in the Village
Altos de Chavón mixes old stone charm with modern flavors. Visitors dine across cobblestone streets in the Dominican Republic under warm lights.
- SBG Casa de Campo blends Japanese sushi rolls with Peruvian tiraditos. It sits inside Casa de Campo near the links golf course. JetBlue flyers land at Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) and reach La Romana in under an hour.
- Minitas Beach Club & Restaurant perches on a shoreline facing the Caribbean. Chefs serve sashimi, fresh fish and tropical cocktails. Waves lap the sand as guests sip under palm fronds.
- Causa Peruvian Restaurant serves classic cebiche and causa made with local yuca. The kitchen crafts each plate by hand. It brings Limaâs flair to La Romanaâs old village.
- Lago Restaurant offers a buffet of sancocho, fish fritos and tostones. The open-air hall overlooks the Chavón River. It seats two hundred diners along worn stone walkways.
Evening Entertainment Options
The village lights glow after dusk in Casa de Campo. Music drifts through cobblestone streets in the Dominican Republic.
- Catch a show in the stone amphitheater at Altos de Chavón. It opened in 1982 with Frank Sinatra and later hosted Sting, Elton John, and Andrea Bocelli.
- Dine at Chilango Taqueria by the Chavón River. It serves spicy tacos and locals share stories over fresh tequila cocktails.
- Sample Italian flavors at La Piazzetta under soft lantern light. This restaurant mixes Mediterranean architecture with homemade pasta and seafood from nearby Saona Island.
- Join the monthly artisan market in the central plaza at Altos de Chavón. You can watch craft workshops from Everett Designs and grab unique artisanal crafts.
- Stroll along cobblestone streets after sunset. You will pass art galleries that open late and soak in lively performances around every corner.
Outdoor Activities and Scenic Spots
A drone operator soars over the Chavón River bend to capture lush mangrove life in crisp detail. Hikers follow a GPS trail with binoculars to spot hidden inlets near Playa Minitas.
Coves and Shores Near Altos de Chavón
Crystal coves line the Chavón River near Altos de Chavón in the Dominican Republic. Bright water laps white cliffs. Tour guides lead kayak tours with GPS gear. Visitors catch views of lush river banks.
They spot fish and coastal birds. Canoes and paddleboards glide into hidden inlets. That river ecosystem supports mangroves and marine biodiversity.
Guests also roam nearby shores such as Minitas Beach at Casa de Campo. Sea turtle nesting unfolds from March to November on that golden sand. Day trips to Saona Island and Catalina Island fill hours.
ATV tours and zip-lining rides thrill explorers. Local guides offer cultural excursions into La Romana villages and artisanal craft workshops.
Walking Trails and Photography Spots
The trail leads from Altos de Chavón down to the chavón river. It starts behind the Dye Fore Pro Shop on the Dye Fore golf course.
- Stone entrance behind Dye Fore Pro Shop marks the trail start and shows a carved archway that guides hikers to the riverbank. The pathway closes at 6 PM, so plan your visit before dusk.
- Quaint stone bridge frames emerald chavón river views for strong composition with a wide-angle lens. A sturdy tripod and digital camera help you capture every detail.
- Shaded stairway halfway down offers relief from midday sun and shapes soft light for balanced shots on any mobile camera. The cool arch lets you tweak camera settings in comfort.
- Riverbank viewpoint arrives in about ten minutes and rewards you with sweeping water scenes ideal for mapping apps and GPS tagging. A quick setup with neutral filters can boost color in early evening light.
Discover the most Instagrammable spots in Casa de Campo, La Romana.
Most Instagrammable Spots in Casa de Campo, La Romana
Paths along Chavón River banks guide you to the village heart. Golden hour and sharp shadows amplify each photo. These La Romana sites in the Dominican Republic beg for digital camera or smartphone captures.
- Sunrise View at the Amphitheater: Crisp sky frames the stone seats. Amphitheater hosts Frank Sinatra tributes and Elton John nights. Wide angle capture reveals tiered arches.
- Facade of St. Stanislaus Church: Blue dome and bell tower invite contrast shots. White stucco walls stand against clear sky. Photographers love its symmetry.
- Narrow Cobblestone Streets in La Piazzetta: Worn stones reflect dawn light. Everett Designs showcases artisanal crafts along the lane. Rustic lanterns add aged charm.
- Entrance to the Archaeological Museum: Moss laden arch draws eyes upward. Regional Archaeological Museum sits behind aged stones. Time worn reliefs peek through open doors.
- Farmers Market Aisles at Altos de Chavón: Vibrant bananas, cacao pods, and handmade baskets fill stalls. Artisans display artisanal crafts under colorful awnings. Each crate and basket demands a close-up.
- WAO Galera Gallery Interior: White walls host bold modern paintings. Bright abstracts pop in natural light. Visitors wander between canvas and sculpture.
- Overlook of Chavón River: Winding water glints under sunrise hues. Green palms line the shore across the river. A sturdy bench invites wide scenic shots.
- Teeth of the Dog Cliff Path: Limestone cliffs drop into turquoise waves. Sunlight cuts deep shadows on jagged rocks. Golf carts glide behind scenic overlooks.
- Minitas Beach Swing Frame: Powdery sand meets rusted iron. Palm fronds rustle overhead. Sunset silhouettes make portrait bursts.
Tips for Visiting Altos de Chavón
Pack water, wear sturdy shoes, open a map app to cobblestone streets, and keep reading for more tips.
Best Time to Visit
Dry season runs from November to April in the Dominican Republic. Visitors enjoy Altos de Chavón in November for warm days and fewer crowds on its cobblestone streets. Tourists fill Casa de Campo from December through April, drawn by sunshine along the Chavón River.
Wet season spans June to November and brings heavier rainfall and higher hurricane risk. Whale watching in Saman Bay peaks from January to March under clear skies.
Transportation and Accessibility
Visitors fly into Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) or Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ) when traveling to the Dominican Republic. Each drive to Altos de Chavon takes about 50 minutes. Airport shuttles run from both hubs.
Drivers use GPS tools like Google Maps or Waze to navigate the cobblestone lanes. Taxi cars charge a flat rate. Some guests book private transfers from La Romana.
Guests of Casa de Campo cross the Chavón River to reach the village free of charge. Travelers staying off-site pay a small entrance fee. Signs at the 7,000-acre resort mark the route.
Shuttle buses also depart from the Dye Fore Golf Course. Check our packing tips to prepare for your day.
What to Pack
The road from Punta Cana Airport to the cobblestone streets of Altos de Chavón in La Romana, Dominican Republic sets the stage for smart packing. Choose cotton shirts and linen pants to handle Caribbean heat.
Slip into sandals, slip-ons, rope-soled shoes, or open-toe slippers for village paths.
Carry a piece of swimwear and a lightweight wrap for a dip in the Chavón River cove. Include pairs of comfortable tennis shoes for the Dye Fore golf course or a stroll along Minitas Beach.
Review dress codes at art galleries and Casa de Campo restaurants to pick casual or casual-elegant outfits.
Exclusive Tours and Packages
Fly by helicopter over the Dye Fore Golf Course and glimpse the Altos de Chavón archaeological museum from above. Use TripAdvisor and Google Maps to find a Casa de Campo art and dining package that sparks your creative side.
Guided Day Tours
Tour groups leave from Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) at 8:00 am. This top-rated, eight-hour guided day tour carries up to 36 guests and covers transport, admission to Casa de Campo, and lunch.
- Board the shuttle in comfortable seats. Not wheelchair accessible; infants sit on parentsâ laps.
- Cruise along the Chavón river highway. Enjoy scenic views toward La Romana.
- Wander cobblestone streets. Peek into craft workshops and buy artisanal crafts.
- See St. Stanislaus Church. Admire its Baroque features and colorful stained glass.
- Visit the Altos de Chavón Archaeological Museum to view Taino relics and colonial artifacts.
- Roam art galleries and spot tributes to Frank Sinatra and Gloria Estefan.
- Enjoy Dominican cuisine at La Piazzetta near The Links golf course.
- Snorkel off Catalina Island in crystal waters. Look for parrotfish and coral formations.
- Return to Punta Cana by about 4:00 pm. Disembark with new memories of Casa de Campo.
All-Inclusive Experiences
Casa de Campo lets guests opt in for an all-inclusive package near Altos de Chavón. It covers gourmet meals at La Piazzetta and Chilango TaquerÃa. The deal includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
Guests sip cocktails and juices by Minitas Beach.
Unlimited fun spans horseback rides on thoroughbreds and non-motorized water sports along Saona Island. Kids ages one to seventeen join a Family Program for craft workshops and pool games.
Adventurers kayak on the Chavón River at dawn. Drivers land at Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) and reach La Romana in under an hour.
Conclusion
The guide recaps the villageâs Mediterranean architecture and lively art scene. Visitors can easily stroll cobblestone streets, tour the regional museum, and catch shows at the amphitheater.
My tips on guided day tours and local dining make planning simple and stress free. Exploring the Chavón River and a historic chapel deepens cultural insight. Embrace this inspiring arts hub and start crafting your own Casa de Campo story today.
FAQs
1. What is Altos de Chavón in the Dominican Republic?
It is a village above the Chavón River in La Romana at Casa de Campo. It has cobblestone streets and Mediterranean architecture. You can visit art galleries and the archaeological museum (Altos de Chavón Archaeological Museum).
2. How do I reach Altos de Chavón?
Fly into Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) or land at La Romana airport. Drive along the Chavón River road to the village. Casa de Campo offers a shuttle from both airports.
3. What art and performances can I see in Altos de Chavón?
You will find art galleries filled with color and craft workshops. You can buy artisanal crafts or meet local makers like Everett Designs. You can tour the historic chapel (st. Stanislaus Church). You can catch an exhibit by Roberto Copa in the museum. The amphitheater once hosted Frank Sinatra, Gloria Estefan, and Elton John.
4. Can I play golf or visit nearby islands?
Yes. Casa de Campo has the Dye Fore Golf Course and the Links Golf Course. You can land at Catalina Island for a day trip or sail to Saona Island on a catamaran. I also loved the clear waters at Minitas Beach.
5. Where can I shop and dine in Altos de Chavón?
I stopped by La Piazzetta for a coffee and sat under vibrant arches. I tried tacos at the taco eatery (Chilango TaquerÃa) near craft workshops. Plan your visit, and then head east to Higüey for more local flavor.
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