Insider’s Guide: Bermuda

This isolated archipelago of 181 islands is most associated with a laid-back island vibe, warm water, and shorts that pass as work attire. But Bermuda’s famous pink-sand beaches, which get their color from pulverized coral and shells, are its most memorable attribute. Just a two-hour flight from America’s east coast, this British territory is also home to the historic town of St. George, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

SEASIDE CELEBRATIONS

Bermuda is an anytime destination, and not just because of its delightful year-round climate. There’s always something to do. January sees Bermuda Restaurant Weeks — close to 50 restaurants providing either two-course lunches or three-course dinners.

The Bermuda Triangle Challenge is a three-day running challenge (also held in January). Active travelers can participate in events ranging from a one-mile fun run to a full marathon.

Springtime in Bermuda brings one of the world's most beautiful Good Friday traditions. Kites in various colors and styles fill the skies over Horseshoe Bay Beach during the Bermuda Kite Festival, while the Bermuda International Film Festival is held in March and attracts stars of the film industry.

From May through August (Wednesday nights), the city of Hamilton hosts a pedestrian-only block party with local vendors, artists, activities, and traditional Gombey dancers. Harbor Nights Bermuda is a vibrant summer street festival with live music, local food, and artisanal crafts.

THE EPICURIOUS

Seven dining experiences await at Rosewood Bermuda, including steakhouse classics, beachside seafood, and a festive lounge specializing in gin cocktails and afternoon tea. Sul Verde is a Rosewood standout — the southern Italian trattoria offers two options: à la carte or a three-course meal customized to your preferences. If opting for the latter, expect shareable appetizers, homemade pasta, platters of meat and seafood, and a quintessential Italian dessert.

At Bolero Brasserie, dishes are deceptively simple and surprisingly delicious. A favorite among locals and visitors, Bolero offers traditional and vegan tapas, specialty dishes, and decadent desserts.

Art Mel's Spicy Dicy, off the beaten path near Hamilton, is worth the trek for a traditional Bermudian meal. It's also (arguably) the best place on the island to try Bermuda's famously unique take on the fish sandwich, which consists of a deep-fried fish filet with tartar sauce on raisin toast.

OCEAN INSPIRED TOASTS

When at the Rosewood, settle into Tucker’s Bar, which serves classic cocktails and Bermuda favorites. Alternatively, the property’s Conservatory Bar & Lounge features handcrafted cocktails enhanced with fresh botanicals, house-made infusions, and the latest mixology techniques.

At The Sunken Harbor Club, sip classic island cocktails surrounded by sunken treasure recovered by Bermudian diver Teddy Tucker.

BEYOND THE BEACH

Tucker’s Point Golf Course, located at the Rosewood, is an 18-hole, par-70 course and is considered the island’s finest golf experience. Originally designed in 1932 by Charles H. Banks, this scenic and challenging course was completely redesigned in 2002. Traverse undulating fairways with elevated tees. 

At Crystal and Fantasy Caves, descend underground to deep, super-clear pools surrounded by stalagmites and stalactites, explored via floating bridges.

After a string of shipwrecks on Bermuda's West End, construction began on Gibb's Hill Lighthouse in 1844. Because steel was not a viable building material at the time, it was one of the few lighthouses in the world made of cast iron. Today, visitors can climb its 185 steps for unbeatable views of Bermuda's hues of greens and blues.

Established in 1928, the Lili Bermuda Perfumery has been preserving Bermuda's story through scent for almost 100 years. Discover techniques of perfume-making and aging. Traditional afternoon tea is offered on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons.

RETAIL THERAPY

Locally owned and curated with a focus on social progress, you’ll find everything from books to planet-friendly home goods at Long Story Short. The store is also home to a local artisan skincare line and hosts in-house workshops.

Situated on Bermuda's West End, the Bermuda Craft Market features local artisan crafts, jewelry, cigars, rum cake, prints and paintings, and even rum swizzle mix.

WHERE YOU'LL STAY

Located along one of the island's most coveted locales, the Rosewood Bermuda is your idyllic headquarters for embracing the life aquatic. Your Harbour View, one-bedroom suite is comprised of a luxurious parlor, living room, wet bar, dining table, and sitting area with fireplace. Both the living room and bedroom open onto an expansive balcony furnished for al fresco dining, with a waterfront view of Castle Harbour.