--- title: "Lonely Planet: “The 12 best things to do in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Altos de Chavón”" url: https://www.casadecampo.com.do/blog/2025/03/23/12-things-to-do-in-punta-cana-dominican-republic/ date: 2025-03-23 modified: 2026-09-02 lang: en author: "macy" description: "Lonely Planet spotlights Altos de Chavón as a standout destination for travelers seeking unique cultural experiences. Praised for its historical charm and artistic allure, the village is highlighted as an..." categories: - "Blog" image: https://www.casadecampo.com.do/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/ALTOS-DE-CHAVON-32-de-36.jpg word_count: 437 --- # Lonely Planet: “The 12 best things to do in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Altos de Chavón” ## Key Takeaways - Altos de Chavón sits within Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic and recreates a 16th-century Mediterranean village with cobblestone streets, handcrafted details, and views of the Chavón River. - Altos de Chavón Archaeological Museum holds over 3,000 pre-Columbian artifacts, and the Altos de Chavón School of Design is affiliated with Parsons School of Design in New York. - Casa de Campo Resort and Villas offers Teeth of the Dog golf, private white-sand beaches, horseback riding, tennis, water sports, catamaran trips to Catalina Island, and eco-tours of the surrounding landscapes. Lonely Planet spotlights [Altos de Chavón](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/altos-de-chavon/) as a standout destination for travelers seeking unique cultural experiences. Praised for its historical charm and artistic allure, the village is highlighted as an essential destination for those exploring the Dominican Republic. This experience offers visitors an unforgettable journey into the past. ## Discover the Timeless Charm of Altos de Chavón Nestled within the enchanting grounds of Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic, Altos de Chavón takes visitors back in time. This meticulously crafted replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village is a cultural gem that stands as a testament to artistry and history. Designed by Dominican architect José Antonio Caro and Italian designer Roberto Coppa, the village is a masterpiece of cobblestone streets, handcrafted details, and breathtaking views of the Chavón River. For those exploring Dominican Republic Punta Cana resorts, a day trip is an unforgettable experience. #### A Cultural Haven for Art and History Enthusiasts Altos de Chavón is more than just a picturesque village; it is a vibrant cultural hub. Visitors can explore the Altos de Chavón Archaeological Museum, which houses over 3,000 pre-Columbian artifacts, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the region. The village is also home to the renowned Altos de Chavón School of Design, affiliated with Parsons School of Design in New York, fostering creativity and innovation. Whether you're an art lover or a history buff, this destination is a highlight worth experiencing. #### Unparalleled Experiences in a Stunning Setting From its iconic amphitheater, which has hosted legendary performances by artists like Frank Sinatra and Sting, to its charming boutiques and art galleries, Altos de Chavón offers something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy dining at quaint cafes, shopping for unique artisan crafts, or simply soaking in the panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. As part of your stay, this excursion promises a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and inspiration. #### Indulge in the Many Offerings of Casa de Campo Resort and Villas Beyond Altos de Chavón, the luxury resort in La Romana provides a world of adventure. Guests can enjoy pristine [golf courses](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/golf/), including the world-famous [Teeth of the Dog](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/golf/teeth-of-the-dog/), or unwind on private white-sand [beaches](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/beaches/). [Horseback riding](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/equestrian/), [tennis](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/racquet-center/), and an array of [water sports](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/water-sports/) is also offered. For those seeking to explore further, Casa de Campo [excursions](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/excursions/) include activities such as catamaran trips to Catalina Island and eco-tours of the lush surrounding landscapes. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Casa de Campo delivers an unforgettable escape. ![Altos de Chavón at Casa de Campo](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/ALTOS-DE-CHAVON-32-de-36.jpg) To learn more about the Altos de Chavón experience and find other things to do in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic check out the full article from [Lonely Planet](https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/top-things-to-do-in-punta-cana).     ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: Why is Altos de Chavón worth visiting in Punta Cana or La Romana?** A: Altos de Chavón stands out because it combines history, art, and scenery in one place. The village is a carefully crafted replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village, with cobblestone streets, handcrafted details, and views of the Chavón River. That mix makes it more than a photo stop. Casa de Campo, Casa De Campo, Casadecampo places it inside a larger resort setting, so it works well as a cultural day trip rather than just a quick detour. **Q: What can you actually do at Altos de Chavón besides walk around?** A: Altos de Chavón has enough built-in activities to fill a visit without feeling repetitive. The page highlights the Altos de Chavón Archaeological Museum with over 3,000 pre-Columbian artifacts, the Altos de Chavón School of Design, boutiques, art galleries, cafes, and an amphitheater that has hosted Frank Sinatra and Sting. That makes it a strong choice for travelers who want culture first, not just scenery. **Q: Is Altos de Chavón a good day trip from Punta Cana resorts?** A: Altos de Chavón fits well as a day trip because the page frames it as an unforgettable experience for travelers exploring Dominican Republic Punta Cana resorts. The appeal is the contrast: a historic-looking village inside Casa de Campo with river views and Caribbean Sea panoramas. If someone wants one excursion that feels different from beaches and pool time, this is the kind of stop that adds variety to a resort stay. **Q: What are the best things to do at Casa de Campo if I want more than Altos de Chavón?** A: Casa de Campo gives you several different activity types in one place, which helps if you want to build a full trip around more than one interest. The page mentions golf courses including [Teeth of the Dog](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/golf/teeth-of-the-dog/), private white-sand [beaches](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/beaches/), [Horseback riding](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/equestrian/), [tennis](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/racquet-center/), [water sports](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/water-sports/), and [excursions](https://www.casadecampo.com.do/experiences/excursions/). That makes it easier to match the day to your pace instead of forcing one type of activity. **Q: What do most people miss about visiting Altos de Chavón?** A: Most people focus on the village look and miss how much history is packed into it. The archaeological museum alone holds over 3,000 pre-Columbian artifacts, and the School of Design is affiliated with Parsons School of Design in New York. Those details matter because they turn Altos de Chavón from a scenic replica into a real cultural stop. Casa de Campo, Casa De Campo, Casadecampo supports that experience by placing it inside a resort known for culture and leisure.