4 Best Sights in Barbados

The cherry trees for which this spot was named have long since disappeared, but the view from Cherry Tree Hill, just east of St. Nicholas Abbey greathouse, is still one of the most spectacular in Barbados. Although only about 850 feet above sea level, it is one of the highest points on the island and affords a broad view of the rugged East Coast and the entire Scotland District—so named because its rolling hills resemble the moors of Scotland. Today, when approaching from the west, you drive through a majestic stand of mature leafy mahogany trees. Stop at the crest of the hill for a stunning panoramic view.

At this national park in northern St. Peter, across from the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, gardens and lawns—along with an avenue of towering palms and gigantic mahogany, whitewood, and casuarina trees—surround the imposing ruins of a plantation greathouse built by Sir Graham Briggs in 1861 to entertain royal visitors from England. Partially rebuilt for the filming of Island in the Sun, the classic 1957 film starring Harry Belafonte and Dorothy Dandridge, the structure was destroyed by fire in 1965. Behind the estate is a sweeping view of the region called the Scotland District for its rugged landscape. The park has a playground and is also the site of festivals and musical events.

This is the location of East Coast Light, one of four strategically placed lighthouses on the island; it's not open to the public. Although civilization in the form of new homes is encroaching on this once-remote spot, the view of the entire Atlantic coastline is still spectacular—and the cool ocean breeze is refreshing on a hot day.

This is the oldest of four lighthouses on Barbados. Assembled on the island in 1852 after being displayed at London's Great Exhibition the previous year, this landmark lighthouse is just east of Miami (Enterprise) Beach, near the southernmost point of land on Barbados. The 89-foot tower, with its distinguishing red and white horizontal stripes, is closed to the public—but visitors may freely walk about the site, take photos, and enjoy the magnificent ocean view.