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If you believe in fairy tale locales, then you won't be disappointed in Bermuda. Everything here is so pristine and lovely, it will take your breath away. I stayed at the Grotto Bay Beach Resort, which is close to the airport and St. George – I really loved the location. Because the entire island is only 21 square miles, you are never really far from anything.
There are several unique features to the Grotto Bay, the first thing being the Caves. Here you will find an incredible underground cave where you can swim in a clear blue lake. They also have a bar and disco there, so this tops my list for the best swim-up bar! Have no fear; if you want to swim and see the sun, the hotel has a swimming pool and 3 private beaches. Did I mention the beaches have pink sand?
Even though this is an island, it is not in the tropics. Bermuda has a sub-tropical climate, so if you are there for the swimming, do it in the months of June to September. For golf, tennis and other water sports or shopping and dining, come anytime. It won't be like the winter's back home, but it is only 650 miles from the coast of North Carolina. Getting here is easy, only about 2 hours from the East Coast of the United States, 2 1/2 hours from Toronto and 7 hours from London.
The Grotto Bay features a fitness room, tennis, a full service spa and is only 5 minutes from 2 golf courses.
Just down the road from the hotel is the oldest Pub in Bermuda, the Swizzle Inn at Baileys Bay. They are world famous for the Rum Swizzle and since you can walk there, you might want to try a few!
Getting around Bermuda is easy. Many people rent scooters, but don't forget, they drive on the left here. The other super easy way to explore is by public transportation. You can buy a pass at the hotel; otherwise you need exact change, and hop on a bus that stops in front of the Grotto Bay every 15 minutes. It's a wonderful way to get to know the locals, who will give you lots of great tips, and you can get on and off around the entire island. There are also ferries that will take you out to the Royal Naval Dockyards. If none of these modes of transportation appeal to you, you can always take a cab.
Your first stop should be St. George, the former capital of Bermuda. It's close to the hotel and is historic and quaint – a great place to explore on your first day.
Hamilton, the current capital, is a place you will want to visit several times. Be sure to start on Front Street where you will find many lovely shops and wonderful places to dine. Take a carriage ride around Hamilton so you can get to know the other areas you will want to visit on foot.
Take a ferry to the Royal Naval Dockyards to delve into 500 years of local history and culture at the National Museum of Bermuda. Here you will also find boutiques and local arts and crafts.
Another stop should be the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse – who doesn't love a good lighthouse? This one was constructed in 1844 and made of cast iron. There are 185 steps to the top, but I can guarantee the view is worth it. Once you get down, you can catch your breath in the Tea Room which serves breakfast and lunch. The Lighthouse is open to the public from May to September.
After all this exploring, come back to Grotto Bay for Afternoon Tea – the scones are delicious.
Grotto Bay does offer an all-inclusive option but don't expect it to include what the islands do.
Bermuda is picture perfect and the Grotto Bay Beach Resort will be a welcome home for your stay.
Website: www.grottobay.com
Rating: 
July 4, 2023
