Fairmont Royal Pavilion

This low-density luxury resort has only 72 rooms and suites, but feels much larger upon entering the gate. The driveway, lined with tall swaying palm trees, leads to the circular entrance and introduces the pink Colonial architecture. Enter through the romantic columns and archways and look into the colorful-fish-filled pond that sits in the courtyard -- surrounded by shops and a salon. A bellboy will take luggage and point guests to the lobby for check-in and welcome drinks.

Rooms and suites are located past the lobby in one of two buildings separated by the pool and Taboras restaurant. The outdoor pathways are well lit, helping to accentuate the lovely gardens and wall fountains at night. A large lawn area beyond the pool leads up to the tennis courts, and the water sports center is located closer to the resort entrance. Overall, the resort is about luxury and privacy, and therefore has a slight air of pretension. Guests tend to keep to themselves -- except during the weekly manager’s cocktail parties.

Because the property is not walking distance to nearby attractions, a car is recommended. Taxis are readily available at the resort, but for short distances the bus runs along the main road for a fraction of what a taxi would cost. Just a few minutes down the road is Holetown -- a hub of gourmet restaurants and shopping, including the new Limegrove complex, which features a Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton.

• 35-minute drive to Grantley Adams International Airport
• 3-minute drive to Holetown
• 5-minute drive to Royal Westmoreland Golf Course
• 8-minute drive to Sandy Lane Country Club
• 18-minute drive to Bridgetown
• 15-minute drive to Harrison’s Cave
• 16-minute drive to Flower Forest Botanical Gardens
• 26-minute drive to Soup Bowl
• 32-minute drive to Oistins Fish Fry

Rooms and suites have been updated and come with king-size beds. The slightly larger Junior Suites, located on the lower level, have no exceptional differences from the Deluxe Rooms except for a larger seating area with sofa, and private terrace leading out to the beach. White linens and neutral furnishings let the turquoise sea take the main stage, and each room faces west for beautiful sunset views. Bathrooms are modern and spacious with separate soaking tubs and walk-in showers.

• Unobstructed views of the waterfront, and fabulous sunset views
• Private terraces or balconies
• Outdoor dining table and chairs
• High-quality linens and seersucker bathrobes
• Ample closet space
• Flat-screen TVs and DVD/CD players
• Well-stocked minibars and coffeemakers
• Ceiling fans

• Long beach area with blue umbrellas and cushy lounge chairs
• Great sunset views from all areas of the property
• A large outdoor pool and Jacuzzi
• Two tennis courts lit for night use
• Small fitness center open 24 hours
• Free use of non-motorized water sports, including kayaking, Hobie Wave sailing and paddle-boarding; motorized sports for a fee
• In-room spa services available
• Beauty salon in the lobby that offers manicures, pedicures, hairdressing, and make-up services
• Butler service available
• Meeting space available in a separate building near the parking lots
• Grassy veranda for small wedding parties
• Guided hotel-garden tour once a week
• Free Wi-Fi and parking
• View Full List of Amenities

For special occasions, the Palm Restaurant, near the lobby entrance, is located in a huge open-air space with panoramic sunset views. This fine-dining restaurant is romantic, and the menu includes local fare as well as international favorites.

Taboras, the resort’s more casual-dining option, is located near the pool in an open-air bistro setting. Breakfast, lunch, and free afternoon tea are served daily. This is the spot where weekly themed dinners and Sunday brunches are held.

For a more romantic experience, order from room service and have dinner served by a butler, who will spread out a white tablecloth and candles in the privacy of the guest’s terrace or balcony.