Some Mandarin Oriental properties are exercises in orchestrated perfection. This one trails far behind any such level of finesse, yet many highly appealing components still make Elbow Beach worth a stay. Foremost is its proximity to the beach, even if that means crossing a long series of lawns. In fact, these forced cross-campus walks give the property a breezier feel than that of the Fairmont Southampton, the island's other outsize upscale resort. Elbow's four restaurants have something for everyone, and there's pool-front service and a nightclub. Oddly enough, the dining highlight may be breakfast at the Sea Horse Grill, where the service is impeccable. The spa is the most superlative in Bermuda because of its pervasive sense of tranquillity—it's here that the Mandarin touch is fully realized. Rooms off the main five-story building are all freshly furnished and have private sunning gardens—these are a breed apart. Some rooms in the main building are also renovated, with soothing blond- or dark-wood notes, luxurious marble floors and baths, and Caribbean hues. Pros: great beach, kids' activities, many restaurants to entertain. Cons: somewhat generic, very expensive, huge property can mean a lot of walking.
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