Gardens of Barbados 657

Gardens of Barbados 657

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9 Days From

$4265

Gardens of Barbados 657

9 Days Starting and ending in London, UK

Visiting: Bridgetown, Saint Joseph, Harrison's Cave, Saint Peter, London

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BGOB

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 25

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

1-99

Special diets catered:

Meat, Vegans, Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English
From: $4265

NB: Prices correct on 22-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the lush landscapes of Barbados with the "Gardens of Barbados 657" tour. This enchanting experience begins with a flight from London, offering pre-flight Executive lounge access, and takes you to the heart of the Caribbean. Discover the island's rich history at the George Washington House and explore the vibrant flora at Hunte's Garden and the Tropical Gardens. Marvel at the natural wonders of Harrison's Cave and the Flower Forest, and enjoy the serene beauty of St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation. With comfortable coach travel, professional tour management, and stays at the Accra Beach Hotel & Spa, this tour promises a blend of relaxation and adventure. Conclude your days with leisure time to explore Bridgetown or unwind on the beach, and savor a farewell dinner before returning to London.

Highlights

  • Explore Hunte's Garden, a lush and vibrant garden located in the heart of Barbados' rainforest.

  • Visit the historic George Washington House, the only house outside the United States where George Washington lived.

  • Discover the stunning Harrison's Cave, a limestone cavern with flowing streams and crystal-clear pools.

  • Wander through the Flower Forest, a serene garden with breathtaking views and vibrant flora.

  • Experience the rich heritage of Barbados at the Barbados Museum.

  • Enjoy a scenic ride on the heritage railway at St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation.

  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison.

Places You'll See

Gardens Of Barbados 657

Gardens Of Barbados 657

Gardens Of Barbados 657

Gardens Of Barbados 657

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1

Location: Bridgetown

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accra Beach Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Dinner

Enjoy access to the airport Executive lounge before we fly from London to Bridgetown and transfer to our hotel.

Day 2

Location: Bridgetown

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accra Beach Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, our tour of Barbados begins at the George Washington House, also known as Bush Hill House, a historic plantation house where the young George Washington and his ailing brother Lawrence resided for two months in 1751. Barbados was the only country ever visited by the future “First Father” of his country and Bush Hill House the only house he ever lived in outside of the continental United States.
This afternoon we will visit the Barbados Museum where we can learn all about the rich heritage of the island.
We will later return to our hotel where the evening is at leisure.

Day 3

Location: Saint Joseph

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accra Beach Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning after breakfast, we will begin our day at Hunte’s Garden, located in a gully in the centre of Barbados’ rain forest. Thanks to such an interesting location, the garden offers a multidimensional experience, with vigorous plants densely growing on many levels, from sunny and open spaces, down to a mysterious, dark heart of real Caribbean jungle.
Our next visit provides a most colourful and fragrant experience as we explore the Tropical Gardens, home to more than 20,000 orchids. A meandering path lined with orchids leads through a coral grotto to the five orchid houses. Keep your eyes on the trees for orchids such as Schomburgkia that bloom once a year with spectacular results. Species such as Vandas, Phalaenopsis, Calanthe, Cattleya, Ascocendas and Dendrobiums, to name but a few, can be found throughout, with some of the rainforest orchids appearing to hang in mid-air with their roots completely free of soil.
We will return to our hotel later this afternoon, where the evening is at leisure.

Day 4

Location: Harrison's Cave

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accra Beach Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning we depart for a visit to Harrison’s Cave, a crystalline limestone cavern which lies in the centre of the island. Flowing streams, deep pools of crystal-clear water and towering columns characterise this living cave, which is adorned with stalactites and stalagmites of all colours and sizes. We will also take a leisurely walk along the nature trail that has been created here.
We continue with a visit to the Flower Forest, located in one of the most breathtakingly beautiful areas of Barbados and built on a former sugar plantation. The views from the garden over the hills offer fantastic photo-opportunities – the forest towering and lush, the pathways lined with flowering plants, the tone quiet, peaceful and serene.

Day 5

Location: Saint Peter

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accra Beach Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast we explore the St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation. Located in the hills of St Peter, St Nicholas Abbey encompasses over 400 acres of undulating sugar cane fields, lush tropical gullies, mahogany forests and formal gardens. We will also enjoy a scenic ride on the heritage railway that winds through the plantation fields and mahogany woods with expansive views of the east coast from Cherry Tree Hill.
Later we visit historic Speightstown, which dates to 1630 and has a pleasing blend of colonial and modern architecture along with excellent shopping and dining options.

Day 6

Location: Bridgetown

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accra Beach Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast today we will explore the island’s capital of Bridgetown, which was founded by English settlers in 1628. Historic Old Bridgetown and its Garrison is now inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After our tour of the city there will be time to shop and sightsee at leisure.
We will later return to our hotel, where the evening is at leisure.

Day 7

Location: Bridgetown

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accra Beach Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Following breakfast this morning, the day is free to stroll along the beach, take a swim or perhaps venture further afield.
Alternatively, you may wish to join our optional excursion, a cruise aboard a Catamaran yacht, ideally suited for sailing in these shallow, sheltered waters. Relax on board a catamaran and watch the beautiful coastline of Barbados slip by, then drop anchor in a quiet bay for a swim in the crystal clear waters with the turtles, followed by a sumptuous Barbados lunch.
This evening we will enjoy a farewell dinner in the hotel.

Day 8

Location: Bridgetown

Accommodation: Overnight flight

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast the morning is free for some last-minute shopping before we transfer to the airport in time to check in for our return flight to London.

Day 9

Location: London

On arrival in London the group will disperse or make onward connections.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included in the tour package.

  • Meals - as per the itinerary

    Meals are provided as per the itinerary.

  • London pre-flight Executive lounge access

    Access to the Executive lounge at London airport before the flight is included.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Comfortable coach travel is provided throughout the tour.

  • All visits as outlined in the itinerary

    All visits mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    The services of a professional tour manager are included.

What's Not Included

Tipping and GratuitiesTipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

Mode of Transport

Travel comfortably throughout the tour with coach transportation, ensuring a smooth journey between the beautiful sites of Barbados. Enjoy the convenience of organized transfers from London to Bridgetown and back.

Accommodation

Stay at the Accra Beach Hotel & Spa, offering comfortable accommodations with easy access to Barbados' stunning attractions. Enjoy leisure evenings at this well-appointed hotel, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides accommodation at the Accra Beach Hotel & Spa in Barbados.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Meals are included as per the itinerary, with breakfast provided daily and some additional meals on certain days.

  • Is there any special access provided before the flight from London?

    Yes, the tour includes access to the London pre-flight Executive lounge.

  • What type of transportation is used during the tour?

    Comfortable coach travel is provided throughout the tour.

  • Is there a professional guide available during the tour?

    Yes, the services of a professional tour manager are included in the tour.

  • What is the highlight of the visit to Harrison's Cave?

    The highlight of the visit to Harrison's Cave is exploring the crystalline limestone cavern with its flowing streams, deep pools of crystal-clear water, and towering columns adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.

  • What can be expected during the visit to St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation?

    During the visit to St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation, you can explore over 400 acres of sugar cane fields, tropical gullies, mahogany forests, and formal gardens, and enjoy a scenic ride on the heritage railway.

  • Is there an optional excursion available on the tour?

    Yes, there is an optional excursion available on Day 7, which is a cruise aboard a Catamaran yacht, including a swim with turtles and a Barbados lunch.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

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1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Friday

Feb 06, 2025 - Feb 14, 2025
$4265

Thursday - Friday

Feb 06, 2025 - Feb 14, 2025
$4519

Including UK Flights

Monday - Tuesday

Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025
$4265

Monday - Tuesday

Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025
$4519

Including UK Flights

Prices last published on 21-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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