Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Reserva Forestal Carite
Combining primary and
secondary forests, this preserve
protects an important watershed
in the Sierra de Cayey range.
Feathery groves of bamboo and
mist-shrouded dwarf forest here
are festooned with mosses. This
lush world entices with roadside
picnic sites and 25 miles (40 km)
of trails that are good for hikes
and spotting around 50 species
of birds, including the
endangered endemic mountain
hawk. Its proximity to San Juan
draws crowds on weekends.
d
Map K4 • Carretera 184 Km 27.5
• 787 747 4545 • Open 8am-5pm
@
Aibonito
Reserva Forestal Carite
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Orocovis
This town is famous for
its wood-carvers who produce
santos (see p47).
Visit the tiny
Museo Orocoveño, which honors
the craft of saint-carving and also
exhibits Taíno artifacts. South
of town, the Mirador Orocovis-
Villalba is a lookout tower with
stunning views of the coast.
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Map G4 • Museo Orocoveño: Carretera
155; 787 455 4217; by appointment
$
Barranquitas
At 2,400 ft (730 m) above
sea level, this is the island's
highest town. It is surrounded
by alpine pastures - hence its
nickname, “Switzerland of Puerto
Rico” - and fl ower-growing is a
major industry here. The Neo-
Classical Iglesia San José (1897)
graces the town's main square
and features a gold-leafed wooden
altar. The best time to visit is
between late June and early
July, during the fl ower festival,
when Aibonito is ablaze with
anthuriums, begonias, orchids,
carnations, and roses.
d
Map J4
This pretty town is the
birthplace of Luis Muñoz Rivera
and his son Luis Muñoz Marín
(see p31)
. The elder's home,
Casa Muñoz Rivera, is now an
interesting museum. The Baroque
Iglesia San Antonio de Padua,
standing over the town's plaza,
has a noteworthy arched ceiling
and fi ne stained-glass windows.
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Map H4 • Casa Muñoz Rivera: 787
857 0230; open 8:30am-4:20pm
Barranquitas' main plaza and Iglesia San Antonio de Padua
89
