Conde de Villanueva

This hotel is geared towards cigar freaks and only true aficionados should stay here. The hotel features one of the better and most respected cigar shops in town, “La Casa del Habano” which rents out private humidors so that regular customers can always have their own personal reserve. Constructed as a private residence of a wealthy Spanish merchant family in 1714, this mansion retains a very welcoming colonial atmosphere. Its privileged location in the historic district is also a boon. Originally it was the home of Claudio Martinez de Pinillo, who was the Count of Villanueva. He was one of the leaders in the encouragement of tobacco cultivation and the promotion of its export to Spain. The building has been completely restored with with special care being taken by the Havana Historical Office to retain its original beauty including a gorgeous, leafy courtyard with caged birds and an interior terrace that runs around the center of the building. Built around a central courtyard it has nine rooms (smoking permitted) including one suite plus the cigar house. Staying here is like renting your own colonial manor house in the center of Old Havana. Fantastic cellar-style restaurant and bar. Internet café. No swimming pool.