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Fodor's Expert Review Greenbank Guesthouse & Cottages

Name: Greenbank Guesthouse & Cottages
Address: 17 Salt Kettle Rd., Paget, PG 01, Bermuda
Telephone: 441-236–3615
Price range: $

17 Salt Kettle Rd., Paget, PG 01, Bermuda See on Map

Amy Peniston

Greenbank has been family-run for over 65 years, and is a reminder of what Bermuda vacations were like back then: slow and relaxed. By way of entertainment you have gardens to explore and waterfront patios and chairs from which to watch the sunset. There's no beach here. Instead, you sit out on the lawn and take in the sun, or use the private dock for deepwater swimming. Or catch the ferry, just steps across the road, to re-connect with Hamilton and the rest of civilization.

YOU SHOULD KNOW This guest house has a 3-night minimum stay.

room

The waterside cottages, especially Salt Winds and Sea Fan, have lovely harbor views. No two are alike—some were converted from old horse-and-buggy stations once used in transporting salt. All are cute and spotless, with kitchens, private entrances, and shaded verandas.

bathroom

Clean and simple with plenty of fresh towels.

lobby

Guests are invited to share the lounge and TV area or take a stroll around the grounds.

dining

Most rooms have kitchenettes and patios on which you can enjoy your home-cooked meals. Rooms without kitchens are served a daily continental breakfast right to the door.

Stock up on groceries at Lindo's, only a 4-minute drive away.

drinking

There's no bar on-site, but to the South, Elbow Beach offers lively and romantic dining and drinking opportunities. You can also venture into Hamilton to experience the island's nightlife in full swing.

LOCATION

Getting Around

Traveling to Hamilton couldn't be easier; ferries leave from the Salt Kettle Ferry wharf located steps from the property. Otherwise, be prepared to pay for a taxi or ask for directions to Middle Road to catch a bus.

Restaurants

Nearly three centuries old, Fourways Restaurant & Inn (3-minute drive) is a timeless culinary delight. Impeccable service and live piano music set the stage for a magical evening--the all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch is great too! The Newport, A Gastropub (12-minute drive) is known and loved for its handcrafted sharing platters and charcuterie. It's a bit spendy for a pub, but the quality of food is easily on par with the price.

Bars

The gourmet burger restaurant Bulli.Social (10-minute drive) doubles as an easygoing afternoon watering hole. Bonus points for having an outdoor terrace that overlooks the quiet Queen Elizabeth Park. Working professionals gather en masse for 5 o'clock cocktails at Victoria Grill (11-minute drive). Try a mojito and bowl of freshly made guacamole.

WHY WE LIKE IT

If privacy and peacefulness are as important as easy access to Hamilton, this quiet guest house, located down the street from a ferry terminal, offers the perfect compromise. Rooms are dated, but comfortable, especially for the price. The service is consistently outstanding thanks to the helpful and responsive manager and staff. You won't have much to do except watch the boats go by, but if that's not relaxing, we don't know what is.