Barbados is considered by many to be the premier destination in the Caribbean. It is the eastern-most of the Caribbean islands, and is actually an ancient and vast coral reef, formed over a million years ago. With its luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, year-round sunshine, well-developed amenities, vibrant nightlife and friendly locals, it’s no wonder that it is one of the most desirable holiday destinations. The island is a 20-mile long, pear-shaped expanse of soft coral, featuring fascinating underground caverns. For many visitors, it is the island’s coral reefs that entice them here.
Sandy Lane Hotel
Located in Saint James, this is perhaps the most famous hotel in the hotel of the Caribbean, the hotel boasts over a hundred stunning rooms and suites with facilities that are sure to impress and delight. The enormous lagoon-style swimming pool is set on several levels and provides plenty of space for guests to splash around, while there is also a full golf course for those who enjoy a round or two and there are several tennis courts for those who enjoy a ball game of a different nature. The hotel is also famous for its lavish spa, which provides pure pampering and a first class range of treatments to try.
The Sandpiper
The Sandpiper is one of West Indies most exclusive small luxury hotels, tucked away on St James Beach on the islands west coast. This award-winning family run property combines the best of both worlds by being close to Holetown – the focal point of tourism on the islands, while offering a discreet and intimate haven at which to relax and unwind. There are fifty rooms in total and the best options for lovers of luxury are the elegant Beach House Suites and the Tree Top Suite Curlew, which have been recently created and boast enormous waterfront terraces. The Restaurant at The Sandpiper is set in the middle of the hotel’s glorious gardens surrounded by tranquil koi ponds and the menu showcases beautifully presented and delicious Caribbean inspired dishes.
Fairmont Royal Pavilion
Boasting one of the best locations on the whole of Barbados, guests are treated to a stretch of pure white sand to spread out on and plenty of excellent amenities to make use of. The buildings here stretch along the tranquil and picturesque Alleynes Bay and guests are provided with uninterrupted views from their large balconies. Each of the 72 guest rooms faces out onto the ocean and are decorated in cream, grey and beige with contemporary local artwork providing splashes of colour. Water lovers can wallow in the hot tub or swim laps in the nearby rectangular pool, while the elegant Palm Terrace provides the perfect place to dine at the end of the day.
Cobblers Cove
The striking pale pink façade of this colonial-style hotel provides a striking touch that is sure to put a smile on the faces of guests as they approach. The hotel occupies a tranquil spot on the waterfront and guests are treated to a very personalised service where everything they could possibly need is provided for them. This former plantation house boasts just forty rooms for guests and by far the best options are the Camelot and Colleton Suites, which can be found on the upper floors as guests are treated to private use of the rooftop terrace where they will find their very own plunge pool to cool off in.
Colony Club
Set on the west coast of Barbados, this very elegant establishment speaks of pure class and refinement. Anyone who wants the chance to step back in time to the colonial era is sure to find that this is a good representation with antique furniture and decorations used throughout the property. One of the main highlights here is the lagoon-style swimming complex, which features cool waterfalls and other tranquil water features. The hotel comprises 96 guest rooms in total with the Luxury Swim Up Poolside Rooms being the best options by far.
Port Ferdinand Luxury Resort & Residences
Located in Saint Peter, Port Ferdinand Marina and Luxury Residences is the ideal place for those who wish to stay away a little longer and want to create a home away from home. the luxury villas are extremely spacious and stylish and provide guests with a wide range of luxurious amenities as well as spacious balconies to unwind on and stunning views of the ocean. Two excellent restaurants can also be found at Port Ferdinand Marina and Luxury Residences, while guests have access to a large outdoor swimming pool to splash around in.