If Barbados were a person, the northern bit of the island that ends along the lower St. James-St. Peter border would be its proud head. Stretching over the two parishes of St. Lucy and St. Peter, the northwest is where the journey to the quieter, more mature side of Barbados’ personality beings.
Punctuated by vast pockets of mother nature at her best, and accentuated by easy-moving roadways, ‘up north’ – as it is affectionately referred to by Barbadians – is home to a blend of natural, cultural and historic exploits that are off the beaten pages of the typical glossy
magazine spreads.
The coastal voyage from west to north gives whoever explores her the best of both worlds – a bit of calm and lazy frolic, and a bit of rugged exploration. For the easygoers, they continue to relinquish days for the hypnotic blues of the seas, choosing to lounge seaside at any sandy nook. Gibbes Beach and Mullins Beach, two of the most notable markers along the path of this voyage, do not make this infatuation any easier to remedy. But journeying on, a sandy trail leads towards the sleepy streets and sidewalks of the area’s main city centre – enter Speightstown. The truth is, this charming, centuries-old town reserves the right to boast of being an aristocrat of bygone Barbados, with its historic relevance and importance to trades that formed the backbone of the island. But today, Speightstown welcomes those who take the trip to its restaurants, museums, open spaces, art galleries, shopping stops and marvelous relics from its prime – all waiting to tell their story to keen explorers.
On the edge of Speightstown, nature meets modernity and luxury at Port St. Charles and Port Ferdinand Marinas, juxtaposed perfectly to paint a more compelling picture. Taxiing further north reveals the dusted treasures of the island – hundred-year old stairs, 17th century buildings, rock forms predating modern humans and centuries old groves. And, these offer indulgences that vary from stories of sugar cane and rum to vast views of a restless coast from a rare perch.
But, if your intentions are less adventurous and demurer and intimate in nature, the romantic undertone of the north may pique your senses. For those in love, a quiet stroll or tender moment along the Speightstown esplanade may be in order, or perhaps a romantic dinner date at the cozy Fish Pot Restaurant to end or start the night. And, for the so-called brave ones who have committed to tying the knot, a world of possibilities awaits at stunning properties styled with your big day in mind. Perhaps it will be High Trees, Mullins Mill, Nelson Gay or the stately Fustic House. And albeit a moot point amongst their loyal guests, each venue transforms life into magic, creating its own perfect version of a fairytale.
Believe it, the north of Barbados definitely is something special, and just like the pearl in the proverbial oyster, its richness has lasted as an object of beauty and reverence over centuries.
