Cobblers Cove has an intimate feel conducive to total relaxation.

The first thing that struck me when I arrived at Cobblers Cove for the first time was… pink. The colour permeates the décor throughout this historic property in Barbados, in both obvious and subtle treatments. Pink umbrellas, pink awnings, even pink straws.

The second thing I noticed was that my mood immediately began to lift. Especially with the gorgeous interplay between the pink and the ribbons of different blues running though the Caribbean water.

Cobblers Cove is a distinguished, dignified resort on the island’s well established “platinum coast”. Built in the 1940s, it is a former home (called Camelot). The main building is meeting of baronial castle and English country house – an esthetic that is common throughout Barbados. Beyond this, everything else in the hotel, from the art and furnishings to the toiletries, is proudly local.

We stayed in an upper floor ocean view suite (the entire resort comprises 40 suites, with differences in views and location on the property) and I found it to be one of the loveliest, most serene of our many island hotel stays. A generously proportioned sitting area includes a handy minibar, a sink and a fridge stocked with complimentary tea, coffee and rum punch. The bedroom and bathroom are enclosed to maximize the air conditioning function. By far, my go-to spot was the balcony. It provided a bird’s-eye view of the sea and the hotel restaurant. The balcony furniture was so comfortable that I ended up spending any spare moments there, reading or staring at the sea while sipping a cocktail.

Coming to the end of a hectic island-hopping journey, I was feeling quite lazy and Cobblers Cove certainly provided relaxing, low-key opportunities to while away the day, interrupted by swimming, snorkeling from shore or boat excursions from the knowledgeable and friendly water sports team. Glancing around at my fellow guests, I saw a mix of families and couples who had no trouble finding their zone. From pool to tennis court, to gym, staying active is no problem. For guests like me, the only time I had to move fast was during tea-time (complimentary), to secure our share of the yummy tiny sandwiches, sweets and home-made lemonade.

The hotel also offers curated tours of their property, focusing on the lovely tropical gardens and bird life that contribute to Cobblers Cove feeling of being an oasis of calm on a busy, vibrant island. Additional sight-seeing tours and curated experiences are graciously and efficiently organized by the hotel’s team. Spa facilities and a gift shop are also on the property. Really, there isn’t anything missing from Cobblers Cove for a wonderful resort experience.

The hotel has one main restaurant, positioned to maximize the sea views. As I expected from a hotel with time-honoured Bajan traditions, the dinner menu is fine dining with a focus on local fish and produce.

Guests have the opportunity to enjoy an array of watersports, including boat rides up and down the coast.

The hotel’s location is about five minutes outside Speightstown, handy for picking up essentials or doing any banking. The town is also a great place to experience local food (we enjoyed lunch at the Fisherman’s Pub, a traditional favourite with locals and visitors like). And a short drive down the main road takes you to several high-end restaurants, hotels, boutiques, and beach lounge bars.

One of the staff shared with me that their goal is to always exceed their guests’ expectations. If my stay is any indication of this philosophy, I’d say Cobblers Cove has mastered that vision.

Reflections…

Old school style and serenity rule at Cobblers Cove. The pace is sedate, and many guests seem content to laze the days away. The relatively small size and lush vegetation add to the intimate feel. It’s definitely not a party place. However, if you are looking for a bit more action, there’s plenty nearby. In fact, some of Barbados’ buzziest spots, like Sea Shed and the famous Lone Star, are minutes away. And when you are done with them or finished sightseeing in this lovely part of the island, it’s nice to return to Cobblers Cove and just be.

Guests at Cobblers Cove can be assured of beautiful Bajan sunsets.

NH 2025