With a diverse range of activities on offer, Barbados gives holidaymakers a lot more than just sun, sea and sand…
Most would agree that Barbados ticks all the boxes when it comes to the perfect holiday destination. From unspoilt white-sand beaches and turquoise seas, to a rich cultural heritage and world-class food and drink, and not forgetting the friendly locals, who are understandably proud of their special island.
Just an 8-hour flight from London, Barbados is the most easterly Caribbean island, boasting year-round warm weather of 25-30C and a low level of humidity.
Whatever time of year you choose to visit, you’ll find a host of events and activities to either watch or take part in. Here’s our guide to some of the best…
ON LAND
There are many different ways to explore this 430km squared island, and its incredible rock formations, awe-inspiring cliff faces and stunning waterfalls all within easy reach. Options include hiking, mountain biking, horse-riding or off-roading in a buggy.
SIX TO TRY:
- Go potholing at Harrison’s Cave, an intricate network of limestone tunnels that can be explored on foot and, in some places, on hands and knees (harrisonscave.com).
- Watch international cricket at Kensington Oval, kicking off with England’s tour of the West Indies in January (kensingtonoval.org).
- Enjoy the fast-paced action of a day at the polo during Barbados Polo Season (1 January – 31 May 2019), fast becoming one of the island’s most popular events.
- Get behind the wheel at the Bushy Park Barbados racing circuit (bushyparkbarbados.com) and party at the Sol Rally Festival, (31 May – 2 June 2019; rallybarbados.net).
- Learn more about the island’s heritage and links with the UK by visiting some of its historic houses, heritage sites and parks – visit barbadosnationaltrust.org for details.
- Take part in the Run Barbados Marathon Weekend in November. The Run Barbados 10K takes a scenic course through the historic former colonial seaport of Bridgetown.
AT SEA
With coasts on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Barbados boasts idyllic beaches for sunbathing and windswept coastlines for surfing. Its crystal-clear waters make it a top pick for diving and snorkelling too, and other popular water sports include windsurfing, kitesurfing and jet skiing.
SIX TO TRY:
- Watch some of the world’s top sailors in action at the Round the Island Race during Barbados Sailing Week (16-24 January 2019) and afterwards enjoy the party, courtesy of sponsor Mount Gay Rum (barbadossailingweek.com).
- Meet friendly green turtles and explore shipwrecks with a snorkelling and powerboat adventure (islandsafari.bb).
- Try the latest trend in water sports, jet blading, which uses water to propel you high into the air (jetbladebarbados.com).
- Take the whole family on a deep-sea adventure with a thrilling submarine tour that can take you to depths of 150ft (barbados.atlantissubmarines.com).
- Watch freediving demonstrations, join an organised scuba dive, or take part in beach clean-ups and conservation projects during the annual Dive Fest (3-7 July 2019; divefestbarbados.com).
- Join swimmers from all over the world at the Barbados Open Water Swimming Festival, a laid-back swimming event that takes place in Carlisle Bay during November (swimbarbadosvacations.com).
Once you’ve had your fill of adventure then don’t forget that there’ll always be a hammock or a sun lounger with your name on it back on one of the island’s pristine beaches. After all, even the most intrepid travellers need to take time out to relax and rejuvenate, Caribbean-style.
How to get there
Fly to Barbados with Virgin Atlantic (from London Gatwick or London Heathrow) or British Airways (from London Gatwick).