Delving into the Unique History and Lavish Offerings of the Caribbean’s Hidden Gem

The Caribbean has long been a favourite tourist destination, with a spectacle of beautiful islands and clear waters making for lavish and relaxing escapes. Whilst the islands of Barbados, Saint Lucia and The Bahamas have a strong global attraction, other, smaller islands often go unnoticed, leaving a plethora of hidden gems across the Caribbean just waiting to be discovered. Barbuda is one of these gems. Forming the twin-island state of Antigua and Barbuda, this unique island boasts not only stunning scenery and high-end, luxury offerings, but a rich history that shines through each and every element of this peaceful paradise. 

Barbuda’s first inhabitants were hunter-gatherers, who lived on the island around 3,000 - 4,000 years ago. Discovered artefacts reveal these inhabitants to have created cutting blades from large gastropods, and to have fashioned other tools such as picks and water vessels from conch and trumpet shells. They are also known for building sophisticated pottery, called Saladoid, which is iconic for its white-on-red paint decorations and cross-hatched textures. 

The island gained a status of autonomy in 1976, which established the Barbuda Council: an organisation that allowed Barbuda to regulate its own finance, agriculture, and other activities. Five years later, Barbuda gained independence from the United Kingdom, forming the twin-island state of Antigua and Barbuda, whilst remaining part of the Commonwealth of Nations. 

In terms of landscape, Barbuda is a very flat island with a tropical marine climate, featuring two significant locations dominating the East and West respectively. Codrington Lagoon makes up the West of the island, home to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary: one of the main attractions of Barbuda. The East is dominated by the Barbuda Highlands; a range of hills which are home to a highly unique ecosystem of rocks, caves and several species of plants and wildlife. Notably, the highest point here is situated 122m above sea level, unusual to the island’s flat south coast. This protected part of Barbuda encapsulates the flourishing nature of its natural habitats, something which marks the island as a location of unparalleled natural beauty. 

Two incomparable oceans surround Barbuda: an example of the diversity found inland on the island. On one side is the Atlantic Ocean, marked by strong seas and wild beaches scattered with driftwood, whilst the Caribbean Sea on the other is home to clear blue waters and distinctive pink sand bays that are the perfect locations for swimming and snorkelling. 

At just 15 miles long and eight miles wide, with a population of circa 1,600, Barbuda’s economy relies on tourism and the government, with fisheries making up the majority of the island’s exports alongside a significant lobster-catching industry. 

Its isolated location and slow way of living have elevated Barbuda as the perfect place for visitors to relax and unwind: it was even a particular holiday favourite of Princess Diana and her two children, Prince William and Prince Harry, many years ago. 

Now elevating the experience of the island even further is a wonderful array of luxurious 5-star retreats and resorts, one of which is the incredible NOBU Barbuda. Here, visitors can indulge in private beach cabanas, NOBU-style beach BBQs and bespoke sushi classes, surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the aptly named Princess Diana beach. 

The new Barbuda Ocean Club is also a favourite among UHNWI, offering a unique way to experience the island within an oasis of unparalleled luxury. Highlights of this private paradise are its Tom Fazio-designed golf course, its dedicated outdoor pursuits team, and its wellness offerings, allowing visitors to experience the best of both land and sea whilst promoting an active and healthy lifestyle in the utmost luxury and comfort. 

Capturing the best of Caribbean tranquillity in just 62 square miles, Barbuda is an island that is not to be missed on your next trip to the Caribbean. It is defined by a rich history that trickles down into each and every one of its offerings, distilling them with a unique charm that visitors are guaranteed to fall in love with. A true sanctuary of serenity, Barbuda is undeniably one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets: the ultimate hidden gem.