Is Sandy Lane Beach the Best Beach on Barbados?
- November 21, 2023
- Barbados
If you want secluded luxury, pristine sands & exclusivity this might be the best beach in the world! Sandy Lane Beach and... Read More
Magical. Cool. Very pretty. These are but a few words that come to mind as you stroll through Hunte’s Gardens.
This isn’t just any botanical garden. What was once a sink-hole like gully on a sugar cane plantation is now an enchanting medley of tropical flora.
How did such a magical place come to exist? In the 1950’s, horticulturist Anthony Hunte used his considerable knowledge of Barbadian plants to create Hunte’s Gardens – the number one garden to visit in the Caribbean.
The million-years-old gully which was rich with native palms has been transformed into a series of mini-gardens in which you’re invited to take a self-tour and find up to 84 items that are displayed on a large sign (or pick up a printed handout if you’re really serious!). Look for purple lilies, orchids, heliconia and bromeliad. You may also be lucky enough to spy some native Green Monkeys showing off for visitors at the gate.
Of course, the gardens in this tropical oasis are incredibly captivating. But, there are plenty of other drawcards too.
The owner Anthony Hunte is a treat, with many interesting stories he is happy to share with you, including a detailed history of the origins of Hunte’s Gardens. Anthony grew up learning about native Bajan plantlife from his grandmother. He will make you feel as welcome as a close friend and may even share some of his famous rum with you!
Secondly, the artwork at Hunte’s Gardens is stunning. There are both prints and originals to choose from, from artists such as Helen Berger and Julia Seymour.
Thirdly, the refreshments at Hunte’s Gardens are delectable. Ordering a slice of vanilla cake along with rum punch for the adults and lemonade for the kids is a must. Guests are often invited to the verandah of the top house for tea and a chat with Anthony Hunte himself, and other visitors to the garden.
Hunte’s Gardens offers temptation for all of the senses. Lush greenery and vibrant colors meet with tropical scents and the smell of ginger. Classical music is playing, and hummingbirds are singing sweetly, drawing you deeper into the gardens until you feel like you’re in another world entirely.
Hunte’s Gardens
Finally, there’s something that many people do not know about Hunte’s Gardens: You are welcome to pack your own picnic and set up anywhere on the grounds to enjoy it. If sitting on a picnic rug isn’t quite your style, there are rustic benches secluded within the gardens for your comfort. Hunte’s Gardens is the perfect setting for a relaxing lunch with the family, or even a romantic interlude.
It’s worth noting that Hunte’s Gardens isn’t only for individuals or small family groups. It’s also a captivating spot to hold a wedding, birthday or other celebration. If you’re looking for somewhere to hold a photoshoot or a group art session, there’s nowhere more enchanting.
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