Leon
Leon makes for an intriguing and fascinating visit. The city was originally founded by Spanish conquistador Francisco Hernandes de Cordoba in 1524, 20 miles east of its current location at the shores of Lake Managua and beneath the imposing shadow of Volcán Momotombo. Devastated by a series of earthquakes and then by a catastrophic volcanic eruption during the early 17th century, the former capital of Nicaragua was abandoned and re-established further northwest to the Indian settlement of Subtiava. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Leon Vieja is still being excavated but welcomes visitors keen to explore its historic foundations.
Long rivalled by the grandeur of its southern neighbour Granada, what Leon lacks in splendour it certainly compensates for with vitality and heritage. Many consider Leon as having the finest examples of Spanish colonial architecture in the country. Its maze of cobblestone streets are adorned with an impressive assembly of intricately carved doorways, wrought-iron balconies and spiral columns guaranteed to enthuse. The must-see Basilica de la Asuncion is the city’s most proud boast and being the largest cathedral in Central America enthralls visitors with its ornate blend of neoclassical, colonial, and baroque influences. Regarded as being the intellectual core of Nicaragua, Leon is host to many excellent galleries, notably the Fundacion Ortiz-Gurdian, museums, and a thriving population of students occupying its affluent schools and universities.
Just beyond Leon grab a board and hit the beaches of Poneloya and Las Peñitas lashed relentlessly by the pounding Pacific surf. Navigate the brackish waters of Reserva Natural Isla Juan Venado by kayak in search of wading birds and crocodiles, or for the ultimate of surreal experiences hike the blackened slopes of Volcán Cerro Negro.