Santosha Barbados

The closer you get to Santosha, the more it feels like a departure from civilization -- the north east coast remains largely undeveloped, in contrast to Barbados’ heavily populated west. Its small, lone sign stands next to a modest driveway -- flanked by a tall dense scrub concealing the property behind it. Up the short drive, Santosha comes into view, displaying the architectural persona of a Vermont ski lodge. The three-story, dark wood construction (a mix of hardy marine timbers) is perched on a hillside overlooking the deep sky-blue pool, sundeck, and clubhouse -- its boutique scale and calm vibe feels like a guest house. Birdsong and ocean breezes add to the property's charm. Santosha's perfect elevation capitalizes on a breathtaking panorama that doubles as the property's backdrop. This area was once a sugar plantation hub, and harsh Atlantic coastal conditions have since kept most development at bay. It’s why Santosha (Sanskrit for “contentment”) remains in scenic solitude, and what makes it so special. Aside from housekeeping and pool maintenance, reception staff may only be spotted during check-in time in the late afternoon, which means guests are more or less left to their own devices, so those seeking on-demand service should stay elsewhere. Santosha is a designated chill out zone -- low maintenance types seeking a true escape and time out from it all should indeed find contentment here. 

Santosha is situated on the north east coast of Barbados which is far less inhabited and developed than other parts of the island. It sits in an elevated part of Windy Hill, overlooking Walkers Beach and Belleplaine. There’s a walking track to the beach across the road from Santosha, which takes about five minutes to reach. It’s a 30-minute drive to the capital of Bridgetown, and around 40 minutes to Grantley Adams International airport. Revered Bajan “Sand Dunes” restaurant is a two-minute drive from the property -- serving fresh seafood and local specialities (some of the best on the island according to locals). A local mini mart just a little farther up the road sells basic necessities and liquor. Santosha can arrange cabs to and from the airport, and a stop for groceries en route makes sense (it’ll just cost a little extra). It’s a five-minute drive to St Andrews Parish Church, and 11 minutes to the Barbados Wildlife Reserve. Hiring a car isn’t a necessity, but could be helpful given the remote location. 

Set over three levels, Santosha's guest rooms cover three categories: Ocean View Studios; Pool View, Ground Floor Studios; and a One-Bedroom Suite which sleeps four. All are apartment-like in size and feature an open-plan layout with plenty of space to wander around. Ground-floor rooms step out onto furnished patios, while the rest have private decks -- and all are positioned to take in the spectacular view -- a real highlight.Decor can vary a bit depending on the unit's location. Second and third floor interiors have a British Colonial vibe, blending white walls with dark timber floorboards, trim, and kitchen cabinetry. Ground-floor rooms feel more contemporary, with blond wood kitchens and light-colored tiling on the floors. White bedding, raffia mats, and wicker furniture create a neutral backdrop for bold color cues in cushions and artworks which include vintage art deco posters and coastal scenes. Features, however, are uniform throughout the room categories and include comfortable king beds, flat-screen TVs, work desks, and fully-equipped kitchens with breakfast bars.

Self-catering properties can skimp on features in general, but the Santosha provides a level above the norm. While there’s no on-site restaurant, the property offers pre-ordered, customizable grocery packages, ranging from Basic to Deluxe to Champagne. Posh Nosh @ Home is a local business that delivers pre-cooked gourmet meals as another dining alternative. A barbecue housed in the clubhouse can be wheeled out onto the pool deck and used by guests at their discretion. There is an honor system in the clubhouse for snacks and drinks whereby guests may pay for whatever they have consumed at checkout. The outdoor pool and whirlpool is a highlight -- with panoramic views of the property and the region. Another indulgence is the massage rooms on-site; treatments can be arranged with 24 hours advance notice. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout, and loaner cell phones with credit are provided to guests for local calls, at check-in.Santosha can arrange taxis to and from the airport, and for a small extra charge, they’ll stop at a supermarket so guests can purchase groceries for their self-catered stay. There’s plenty of free self-parking for guests with their own cars as well. Check-in time is in the late afternoon, but if guests expect to arrive outside these hours, they just have to let the resort know to ensure someone is on-site to let them in.