THE CRANE RESORT, BARBADOS - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

A dream holiday in a sensational Caribbean escape begins the moment you arrive at The Crane Resort Barbados, a luxurious oasis of relaxation and fun in sun-kissed Barbados.

This magical beachfront retreat on the island’s south east coast in the parish of Saint Philip offers stunning sea views and has everything you need for an amazing holiday of a lifetime.

The resort is nestled beside Crane Beach, a glorious stretch of inviting white sands which is regarded as one of the finest beaches in the world.

We’ve decided to turn the spotlight on The Crane Resort so you can find out what it has to offer and why it would be ideal for your next holiday.

Why should I choose The Crane Resort?

This haven of relaxation is the oldest operating hotel in the Caribbean and has an amazing history stretching back to 1887 when it first opened under the name Crane Beach Hotel. The Crane Beach area was the site of a small commercial port in the 1700s.

The resort quickly evolved into a favourite getaway for the world’s elite and famous including the legendary American cowboy Buffalo Bill who once left his gold chain and fob watch there as payment for his stay.

Plush accommodation, top-class restaurants and a huge range of impressive facilities and amenities make The Crane Resort a dream come true for families, couples and groups of friends craving an unforgettable holiday experience in the Caribbean sunshine.

The resort also provides a wonderful base for setting out to discover the delights Barbados has to offer including jaw-dropping beaches with swaying palms, craggy cliffs, superb restaurants, thrilling water sports, vibrant nightlife and bustling towns.

What accommodation amenities can guests expect at The Crane Resort?

The resort has an extensive choice of tastefully-appointed suites which ooze elegance and style and come with a host of impressive amenities to ensure total comfort during your stay.

The options available include a Junior Suite, a One Bedroom Deluxe Suite with Roof Top Pool, a Two Bedroom Contemporary Suite with 13ft Pool, a Three Bedroom Penthouse with Plunge Pool and One and Two Bedroom Ocean Suites with huge 28ft pools.

You’ll be wowed by the magnificent features in the various suites which can include an artisan-crafted mahogany king-size bed, fully-equipped granite kitchen with breakfast bar, marble bathroom, rooftop pool with sun loungers, tropical private garden, dining gazebo, oversized plush sofa and a jacuzzi bath. Many suites offer stunning ocean views.

No expense is spared in the quest to create a peaceful and relaxing ambience, with subtle design, sumptuous furnishings and rich fabrics throughout.

What dining options are available at The Crane Resort?

A formidable gastronomic journey awaits at The Crane Resort where a myriad of gourmet dining experiences will send your taste buds into rapture.

You are invited to ‘experience a world of epicurean delights’ in the resort’s award-winning restaurants where you can savour the flavour of local and Caribbean fare, plus a kaleidoscope of cuisines including Japanese, Thai and Southern Italian delicacies.

Zen is the place to enjoy authentic Japanese and Thai cuisines overlooking the famous Crane Beach. This dining venue features plush private booths and a large Tatami room with a recessed floor.

L’Azure Restaurant is renowned for its fresh seafood and contemporary Caribbean cuisine, D’Onofrio’s Trattoria serves up the finest authentic Southern Italian specialities and The Carriage House is a charming poolside bar and grill where you can enjoy tropical cocktails and light eats.

The Grove Beach Bar & Grill offers a wonderful Barbadian dining experience in the coconut grove on Crane Beach and Bar 1887 delivers tapas-style snacks, refreshing cocktails and soothing jazz entertainment. There’s also an in-room dining option which allows you to enjoy a romantic meal in your suite.

What facilities are available at The Crane Resort?

You’ll discover a general store for groceries and travel necessities while Cave Shepherd sells souvenirs, Columbian Emeralds has some excellent fine jewellery and Sophia’s stocks stylish resort-wear.

The Crane Village is also the location of the resort's jazz venue Bar 1887, the spa, the fitness centre and the fun-packed kids club.

There’s plenty to keep you active on the sports and leisure front with a fantastic fitness centre among the amenities at The Crane Resort. The 3,000 square foot centre is packed with cutting-edge equipment including treadmills, free weights and cyclone steppers.

Personal trainers are on hand to help you keep in shape.

Serenity Spa is the place to indulge yourself with head to toe pampering – an extensive range of services are available including facials, massages, body treatments, manicures and pedicures.

If you fancy some healthy outdoor exercise there are two floodlit tennis courts in the grounds and yoga sessions are held in the lush resort gardens.

What sun-bathing and swimming facilities are there at The Crane Resort?

The resort truly excels in this area with easy-access to the incredible Crane Beach and a plethora of amazing swimming pools.

The glorious beach, which is protected by a natural coral reef, is next to the hotel and can be reached via a staircase or glass-front beach elevator.

Umbrellas, sun loungers and towels are provided for your convenience and drinks and snacks are available on the sands at the Grove Beach Bar & Grill.

The resort features an impressive 1.5 acres cliff pool complex which includes a children’s wading pool, a waterfall pool and an alfresco jacuzzi spa pool. There’s also a charming adults-only pool at the cliff edge which was built in the 1970s and features classic Doric columns.

You also have the option to enjoy a refreshing dip in the comfort of your own accommodation - many of the suites provide private swimming amenities including corner tower plunge pools, huge ground-floor pools and penthouse rooftop pools.

What amenities are available for children at The Crane Resort?

There’s never a dull moment for children aged 4 to 12 at Calypso Kids Club, the resort’s excellent amenity for the little ones which combines fun and learning for an exciting experience.

Qualified members of staff organise a bumper programme of activities throughout the day including arts and crafts, talent shows, discovery tours and story time.

Children can also enjoy a splashing time in the resort’s wading pool or head off to the beach with buckets and spades for a sandcastle-building session and a paddle in the crystal-clear waters.

What is there to do outside the hotel?

There’s no shortage of things to see and do when you venture outside The Crane Resort. A range of local tours are available which let you explore the island’s lush landscapes, learn about the area’s mesmerising marine life or visit enchanting historic landmarks.

The hotel is located on the south eastern area of Barbados, a more laid-back and tranquil part of the island which is perfect for walking and simply immersing yourself in the abounding beauty and serenity.

Other options for a fun day out near The Crane Resort include a tour of a local rum distillery, a catamaran cruise, a jeep safari and a horse-riding adventure along the coastline.

If you want a lively evening on the town you will need to head across to the west side of the island where you’ll discover plenty of vibrant night clubs and live music venues. Popular towns for nightlife, shopping and superb restaurants include Bridgetown, Holetown, Oistins and Speightstown.

Live the dream on a magical holiday adventure at The Crane Resort in Barbados. Book your escape today with Destination2.co.uk.