Hotel Review: Cambridge Beaches, Bermuda

If you could imagine your perfect Bermuda vacation spot Cambridge Beaches is likely to fit the bill. Perched on a peninsula with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, this 100-year-old exclusive property has recently undergone a top-to-bottom renovation, still retaining its old-world charm but combined with top-class accommodation, restaurants and facilities.  This is a real piece of Bermudan history with some of the architectural details even dating back to the 17^th Century.

Pretty much whichever way you turn the views take your breath away.  With 86 pink properties dotted around and with 4 private beaches and 2 private coves, an indoor and stunning outdoor infinity pool to choose from it never feels too busy.

Each room is within walking distance of the resort’s three restaurants which offer a variety of menus to suit all tastes. The service is personal but relaxed – you are never hassled but there is always someone not too far away to cater to your every need.

A fabulous touch is the complimentary afternoon tea served in the plantation-style main house with plush seating where you can also find a small games room and a chillout area – in the unlikely event you weren’t relaxed enough already!

Who for?

This is great for families or couples. Plenty enough to do to keep the kids busy but also romantic and with enough privacy and secluded spots for couples – you can even have a private candle-lit dinner in one of the coves should you wish.

Accommodation

Every cottage has a gorgeous water view with an outside space from where you can enjoy either a sunset or sunrise view. Our loo even had a sunset view! They have all been recently renovated and redesigned with beautiful tropical-style dark wood beds, vibrant colours, comfy rattan chairs and stylish traditional shutter doors. Each cottage is cosy and classy with multi-room cottages and adjoining suite options for families or larger groups.

We had a two-bedroom suite which was plenty of room for our family of 5. The beds and linen in particular stand out for the comfiness and the old-fashioned drinks trolley was a very classy touch.

Food & Drink

There are three dining options to choose from at the resort. Pastels for breakfast and lunch offer a range of lighter meals, sushi and burgers. 

A highlight is the Sunken Harbour Club overlooking the sparkling Mangrove Bay which is decorated with shipwreck treasures rescued by the late Bermudian diving legend Teddy Tucker. On offer are authentic Bermudian rooted cuisines and local ingredients with dishes like grilled spiny lobster and slow braised rabbit legs to complement

The beachside Breezes restaurant is a popular alfresco restaurant. Offering lunch and dinner there is a wide range of tasty dishes including local-style fish chowder, traditional Bermudan fish burgers and plenty of veggie and vegan options as well. I recommend sitting on the water’s edge where you can dip your toes in the water while you eat and you might even be lucky enough to spot a turtle swimming by.

Facilities

Cambridge Beaches

The resort offers a European spa with an indoor pool, infinity pool, gym, tennis courts, putting green and a full-service marina. We took a private guided boat tour around the island stopping off at some of the top snorkelling spots. You are spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches with the waters teeming with tropical fish especially if you swim close to the rocks.

We also spent a lot of time in the swimming pool which the kids loved splashing around in.

What’s nearby

Bermuda is only 21 miles long so nothing is too far from anywhere. Cambridge beaches is West of the capital Hamilton and is nearest to Somerset Village which is famous for the world’s smallest drawbridge and where you can rent hydrobikes – yes really you can now bike on the water. It’s also very close the the Royal Naval Dockyard which served as the British Royal Navy’s stronghold for more than 150 years.  Nowadays you can tour the historic buildings or indulge in some retail therapy with a large number of clothing and arts and crafts boutiques within the docks. You can also access various activities including Hartleys Dive Experience where you can get up close and personal with some tropical fish for some unique underwater selfies. Their special diving system means you don’t even have to be able to swim to walk on the ocean floor so it’s ideal for kids (hartleybermuda.com)

How Much

Rooms at Cambridge Beaches starts from £250/night

FIND OUT MORE & BOOK HERE

Getting There

BA British Airways flies direct on most days from London Heathrow, starting at £700 each way.

Find out more at gotobermuda.com.