Top Rated Attractions in Barbados

A horticulturist's delight, Hunte's Gardens is one among several fine gardens on the island. Located in the parish of St. Joseph, the gardens are laid out in a gully or sinkhole. The gardens were designed by Anthony Hunte, a well-known local horticulturalist. In close proximity to Hunte's Gardens are two other natural wonders of Barbados, the Flower Forest, and Welchman Hall Gully. The gardens are open every day for viewing and exploration. They are also available for private functions, including weddings, dinners, and photo shoots.

Dive 45.72 meters (150 feet) below the surface of the sea to view a veritable treasure of life and activity: colorful and exotic corals, fascinating sunken ships, fish and other creatures of the deep. View it all from the safe and comfortable air-conditioned atmosphere of the Atlantis Submarine. If you do not want to go so deep, the Atlantis Seatrec will allow you to view the breathtaking shallow coral reefs and historic wrecks three to six meters (10 to 20 feet) below the surface. These provide great photo opportunities.

Located on the spectacular northern coast of Barbados, this cave derives its name from the sea anemones that grow within it. Formed by ocean waves, the Animal Flower Cave contains stalactites and stalagmites, evidence of Barbados' coral limestone geology. Coral forms the smooth floor of the cave where swimming is a popular activity owing to the naturally formed pool. The landscape around the cave is quite barren during the dry season. The vantage point offers an unparalleled view of the surrounding waves which clash with the ragged exterior of the cave. The cave's bar caters to the visitors who flock to the spot to enjoy the refreshing atmosphere and breathtaking views.

This tropical gully is a must-visit for nature lovers. Enjoy this natural paradise of towering trees and plants as you take the jungle walk through a deep gully rimmed with cliffs. Clove, nutmeg, banana, and fig are among the species of tropical plants and trees to be found in this cool green oasis. The gully also has a breathtaking view of Mount Hillaby, the highest point on the island. The entry price includes a booklet that helps one explore the nature park on own. This wonderful sanctuary also offers guided tours and camps for children and provides space for organizing birthday parties and weddings.

A plantation house built in the Jacobean style of the early 17th century, St. Nicholas Abbey is a regal mansion reminiscent of the architecture pertaining to the Tudor and Elizabethan designs. One out of the three such remaining buildings in the western hemisphere, it retains much of its original structure and grandeur, occupying about 420 acres of a working sugarcane plantation. The furnishings have been replaced and refurbished by generations of owners, but some details are original, such as the molding and windows. Furniture carved out of Barbadian mahogany adorns many rooms in the sprawling mansion, and elegant decor is interspersed among the regalia - bolstering the royal allure of the place. Out in the back, an old four-seater outhouse makes its presence known and the remains of a windmill can be found here. A cafe is part of the schematics. A major renovation of the St. Nicholas Abbey occurred in 2006.

A journey into the subterranean world of Harrison's Cave will result in one being greeted by a spectacular display of stalactites, stalagmites, and fantastic limestone formations. Harrison's Cave was first documented in 1796, but remained largely unexplored until it was re-discovered by Danish speleologist, Ole Sorenson, in 1970. Formed over thousands of years, a few of the stalactites and stalagmites have merged to form glorious columns, while elsewhere the cavern's ceiling is adorned with delicate needles like the finest ornaments of tinsel and lace. Crystal-clear streams carve their way through Harrison's Cave, cascading down waterfalls into the deep pools beneath, flowing past the crystalline monuments and intricate artistry of nature's sculpture garden. Today, this subterranean wonderland welcomes thousands of visitors each year while preserving the delicate eco-balance of its formations.