Welcome to Barbados

Barbados’ rich history and culture mean there are countless sightseeing opportunities on the island.

Historic sightseeing opportunities abound, including the historic Parliament Buildings in Bridgetown, which are home to more than 350 years of history, host the third-oldest political system within the Commonwealth.

Barbados was the only country George Washington ever visited outside of the United States. He lived with his ailing brother, Lawrence, in the historic plantation house known as “Bush Hill” for two months in 1751. Today, this house has been beautifully restored and is home to the George Washington House and Museum.

Ragged Point is the most easterly point of Barbados, from which you can take in sweeping views of the island’s rugged east coast. One of the island’s four lighthouses is located here. Another scenic lookout can be found at Cherry Tree Hill, located 850 feet above sea level and affording views of the island’s Scotland District. Cherry Tree Hill is part of the St. Nicholas Abbey plantation, the location of one of only three Jacobean houses remaining in the western hemisphere and probably the oldest original building on Barbados. There’s also an on-site rum distillery and lovely historic home on site.

You’ll also find stunning views at the Gun Hill Signaling Station located in St. George. This is one of a series of signaling stations built in 1818, from which ships could be sighted, and warnings sent out when a ship was approaching the island. The Gun Hill station has been restored, and is the home of an impressive lion statue carved from a single rock by an officer at the station in 1868.

The new Barbados Boardwalk, located on the island’s south coast, has become a haven for walkers, joggers, and even those who want to recline on one of the boardwalk’s benches and take in the view. The boardwalk stretches nearly a mile past restaurants, hotels, beach bars and private homes, while the sea laps gently and ocean breezes remain steady.

Even more…

Morgan Lewis Windmill: This is the second oldest restored sugar mill in the Caribbean, and is a great exhibit for anyone seeking to explore the island’s plantation era.

Farley Hill: The ruins of the Farley Hill house – once Barbados’ most impressive mansion – are tucked away here behind mahogany trees. Farley Hill offers stunning views, and is even a favorite wedding spot. It’s a great place for an afternoon picnic.

Andromeda Botanical Gardens: Located in the parish of St. Joseph, you’ll find this six-acre garden containing several varieties of orchids, palms, ferns, heliconia, hibiscus, bougainvillea, begonias and cacti. The beautiful and exotic flowers and trees are complemented by a lovely stream which bisects the land and forms enchanting pools and waterfalls.

Animal Flower Cave: This is a must see attraction in Barbados. Steps lead down to this natural cave through an opening in the cliff. The cave features naturally formed windows looking out to the sea as well as sea anemones in its many rock pools. Don’t forget your camera at this stop.