Bayfield House

Owners Trevor and Pamela Ramsay bought and transformed this historic home in 2006 and have made steady improvements since. Pamela grew up on the island and has a comprehensive local knowledge that she gladly shares with guests, while Trevor worked in some of the best hotels on Barbados' west coast. Their daughter, Maria -- and sometimes son Jason when he's in town -- is involved in the operations, giving the whole place a special family vibe.

Once pulled into the palm-tree lined driveway, guests of the Bayfield House will find a spacious lawn adorned with a cannon and bird feeder in front of the attractive two-story plantation. After being welcomed with a rum punch, guests get the lay of the land starting with the charming wraparound verandas on both floors. In the rear is a covered restaurant and bar, which leads to a backyard with an oval pool and well-tended gardens that have tropical mango, banana, and avocado trees (expect visits from hummingbirds, green monkeys, and fruit bats). 

Between its historic architecture and antique furnishings, the Bayfield House seems to attract older couples who appreciate a relaxed, genteel atmosphere. This is also because children under 12 aren't allowed. Repeat guests are common, as are long-term stays -- many who stay for weeks at a time. Evenings begin at the sociable bar -- Trevor's notorious rum punches present -- and conversation easily flows between guests and the owners. 

Bayfield House is situated in a quiet residential area of St. Peter in northwest Barbados, just a five-minute walk to both Mullins Beach and Gibbes Beach. It's a 45-minute drive from Grantley Adams International Airport, and 35 minutes from the capital city of Bridgetown. The main road along the west coast -- called Highway 1B -- provides access to Holetown (13 minutes away) and Speightstown (five minutes away). Those who rent a car have free parking at the hotel. 

The local bus system, nicknamed "reggae bus", is easy to navigate and offers a touch of culture and cheaper alternative to taking taxis. The bus stop is an easy five-minute walk from the hotel, located along the shore, and it only costs $1 to travel in either direction. The most popular option is Holetown due to its upscale Limegrove shopping center, as well as grocery store, post office, and some of the islands best restaurants and bars. In the other direction is Speightstown, which has a few great restaurants of its own, as well as a bus station that connects to the rugged east coast.

Bayfield's owners can arrange a number of activities around the island such as water sports, tennis, and golf, as well as day trips to Bathsheba, Harrison’s Cave, and Saint Nicholas Abbey. 

There are only 10 rooms spread amongst two floors of the house; the upstairs rooms are slightly bigger, though all are fairly spacious. Each one is slightly unique, as they are decorated with antique Bajan furnishings such as four-poster beds, wooden desks, and wardrobes. The entire house was renovated in 2006, and interiors feel fresh with tile floors and quality white linens. 

All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, ceiling fans, mini-fridges (fresh milk is provided daily), coffee- and tea-making facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms have walk-in closets, and all bathrooms have walk-in showers and hairdryers. Two larger rooms -- the Warrens Suite and Porters Suite -- have separate living/dining areas, wet bars, and massive bathrooms with double vanity sinks and jetted tubs. Rooms don't have private balconies (or views for the matter), though they share charming wraparound verandas decorated with cushioned chairs.

One of the most popular aspects of this hotel is that it's just a short five-minute walk to two great beaches: Mullins Beach (more fun) or Gibbes Beach (more remote), with other great options reachable by bus (all beaches in Barbados are public). Mullins Beach is popular for its lively bar and restaurant, along with sun loungers and a selection of water sports that can be rented. The ocean along the west coast is calm and clear, making it great for swimming and snorkeling. Meanwhile, back at Bayfield, guests can stay cool with the well-maintained oval freshwater pool surrounded by cushioned loungers and umbrellas. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.

The comfortable restaurant space overlooks the backyard, and each morning Trevor serves up a full English breakfast. Well-presented courses include tropical fruit and hot dishes made-to-order such as omelettes, pancakes, or French toast. In the corner is a small bar with oversized bar stools, which gets a little crowd before dinner for happy hour. There's no lunch service, though twice weekly (Thursdays and Sundays during our visit) Trevor cooks a three-course dinner for a fee; guests can head to many more options around the island -- the owners will share their favorite spots.