Not only is the Telerifico Puerto Plata rich in beauty, it is also rich in history.
The aforementioned fortress at the top of the mountain, now the base of the famous Christ the Redeemer statue, was originally built for air defence during the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo as protection against possible foreign raids. Where Christ the Redeemer now stands, opened up to a cannon meant to counteract maritime, aerial, and ground attacks. The dome shape, camouflaged by grass, allowed it to remain hidden by blending in with the mountain and allowing a 360 view.
However, due to the cloudiness and fog at that altitude, 24/7 surveillance from the fort was impossible, resulting in it becoming inoperative. It remained unused until 1972 when architect Cristian Martinez proposed the cable car idea, and the president passed it. An agreement was signed with the Italian firm to help build the cable car, and so construction commenced. The build and botanical garden took two years and a further six months of trials, but finally, the park opened its doors to the public in 1975. Forty-one years later, and thousands of tourist from all over the world have stood in awe atop Mont Isabel de Torres.
The mornings are ideal to visit as it’s your best chance for a cloudless sky, but check the forecast before you leave. As it turns out, the Teleferico is the perfect pre-kite adventure!
Getting there is simple too! It’s about a 55-minute drive from our condos, and there are signs posted the whole way there! We are more than happy to arrange the entire excursion for you, so just let our Guest Services know.
Ready to explore the Telerifico Puerto Plata? Book your ocean-view condo now!