It sounds rather absurd: you're in the Caribbean, which is bursting with warmth and sunshine, and yet you still need to dress warmly: a warm jacket, long trousers, and for those particularly sensitive to the cold, even a hat and gloves. Thick blankets are a must, and in the morning, there's nothing you'll appreciate more than a really hot shower. Where is this unusual place?

Reading these words, it's hard to believe you're still in the Caribbean. Yet this place, with temperatures dropping to freezing, is only about a three-hour drive from the island's most beautiful beaches and demonstrates once again just how incredibly diverse the Dominican Republic is. Sun, sand, and mountains would be a fitting motto here. If the coldest temperatures didn't occur during the dry season, it would even snow.

But where exactly is this place where warm clothing is essential even in the warm summer months? Specifically, it's Valle Nuevo National Park, situated at an average altitude of 2.500 meters and part of the Cordillera Central mountain range. While Europe is characterized by barren high alpine terrain, the Dominican Republic at this altitude is dominated by green pastures, dense coniferous forests, and absolute peace and seclusion.

To experience this idyllic natural setting, you won't need any of the aforementioned clothing items, at least during the day, as the Caribbean warmth prevails here too – albeit much milder than on the coasts. Only after sunset does the Cordillera Central reveal its chilly side, causing temperatures to plummet. But that's no reason to escape to the beach. Villa Pajon offers fantastic accommodation and is also "the highest hotel in the Caribbean," its rustic wooden bungalows perfectly complementing the breathtaking scenery. Thanks to hot water, a fireplace, and extra-thick blankets, the almost alpine-style cabins are perfectly comfortable, even when nighttime temperatures can dip close to freezing. Those who relax in the rocking chairs on the cozy terrace with an almost air-chilled beer and a delicious dinner, gazing out over the Cordillera Central mountains, will find it hard to believe that the very next day they'll be back on one of the island's stunning beaches. That's the diversity of the Dominican Republic.