SPONSORED: Discover fabulous food, culture and adventure in Barbados

With awesome activities, sublime seafood and all sorts of watersports, see why there’s more to this Caribbean island than meets the eye

White sandy beaches curve to embrace the topaz sea while, just offshore, boats at anchor gently rock to the rhythm of the waves. Rum cocktail in hand, dappled by the shade of a swaying palm tree, Barbados feels like paradise.

While these idyllic beaches are an obvious attraction, the island is also packed with cultural experiences, fabulous food and fun activities. So whether you are visiting as a couple or family, taking it easy or heading off on an adventure, there is something for everyone.

The recently reinvigorated south coast of Barbados is particularly vibrant and a great place to call home while on the island, with amazing places to stay at an affordable price.

Historic surroundings

Barbados has some impressive colonial architecture and a walk among the beautifully preserved buildings of historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, a Unesco World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into an earlier era.

To the north, in St Peter, the grand St Nicholas Abbey is one of only a handful of intact Jacobean mansions in the western hemisphere and will be opening a new steam railway in January 2019 to take passengers on a unique journey through the lush tropical landscape.

Barbados is the birthplace of rum, so make sure you stop by the Mount Gay visitor centre to sample the island’s signature drink and see how it’s made.

A taste of island life

As you would expect, seafood takes centre stage in Bajan cuisine. Whether you crave some delicious fried morsels from a street food vendor or the finest dining from the capital’s best restaurants, there is something for every palate. Be warned, it can be spicy, but a fruity cocktail soon cools the fire.

If gastronomy is your passion, visit during sugar and rum season, from 15 February to 31 March 2019, for a packed calendar including distillery tours, cooking classes and vibrant parties.

But if you cannot wait till then, there is always a party atmosphere and great things to eat at the Oistins Fish Market. Go on a Friday or Saturday night and the central dance hall will have you swaying to a Calypso beat and strolling among the food stalls for a revitalising meal. This south coast destination is the most popular market on the island and a great place to pick up a bargain.

Stroll, cruise, safari and more

Get up close to the island’s natural beauty aboard a guided safari through the rugged north and eastern territory or by taking a gentle stroll through the Flower Forest. You can get a fresh perspective by cruising around the coast in a catamaran or sinking beneath the waves in a submarine. And don’t miss Harrison’s Cave with its enchanting crystallized structures and clear, deep pools.

Seek out sports

You will find calmer waters perfect for swimming on the west of the island, while the pumping surf on the east is only for the adventurous. From sailing to stand-up paddleboarding, there are all sorts of water sports to enjoy and events throughout the year, such as the Open Water Festival that celebrates swimming, the Run Barbados Marathon Weekend and Barbados Sailing Week.

Stay in style

Whether you are planning an intimate luxury getaway with your partner or a fun-packed tour with friends or family, if you want accommodation with personality, the south of the island is the place to stay.

The chic South Beach Hotel is perfect for those couples that love to explore the island and is located right beside the beach. Ocean Two is ideal for those looking for blissful relaxation within easy reach of St Lawrence Gap’s top notch restaurants and nightlife. And the all-inclusive Sea Breeze Beach House is a characterful resort ideal for families.

All of them have great locations, comfortable modern rooms and facilities, partnered with authentic friendly service, and all at affordable luxury prices.

See for yourself what they have to offer at oceanhotelsbarbados.com or email reservations@oceanhotels.bb