The Island

Island History

Bermuda’s story begins in 1505, when Spanish explorer Juan de Bermúdez first charted these remote Atlantic isles that now bear his name. A century later, in 1609, the English ship Sea Venture was wrecked on Bermuda’s encircling reefs en route to Virginia, a dramatic event that inspired Shakespeare’s The Tempest and marked the start of Bermuda’s permanent settlement.

Since then, the island has become something singular - a blend of British roots, West Indian rhythm, African heritage, and Portuguese influence - shaped by centuries of trade, resilience, and reinvention. Over the years, Bermuda has drawn writers and dreamers alike: Mark Twain found creative refuge here, returning time and again to write; John Lennon, too, spent months on the island, penning songs that would later appear on Double Fantasy.

Beyond its human stories, Bermuda’s natural world tells one of its own. The island is surrounded by coral reefs teeming with marine life, and is often called the “Shipwreck Capital of the Atlantic,” a living museum of centuries of exploration and misadventure. In the day, longtails soar through the sky and the scent of salt and cedar carries through pastel-coloured houses, and at night, the air hums with the calls of tiny tree frogs.

Restaurants

  • Harbourfront

    Our favourite restaurant in the city of Hamilton, sit outside on the terrace by the water and order spicy tuna rolls that will change your life. 

  • The Waterlot

    An iconic Bermuda steakhouse with 350 years of history, enjoy aged steaks, fresh seafood, and a quiet waterfront setting. 

  • Ocean Club

    For guest staying at the Fairmont Southampton, this relaxed restaurant is great for fresh local seafood, tropical cocktails, and views of the water.

  • Sul Verde

    For guests staying at the Rosewood, this classic Italian spot at the Tucker’s Point Golf Club is easily accessible by golf cart, and has pretty spectacular pizzas. 

Bars

  • The Swizzle Inn

    The best place on the island to try the famous Bermuda Rum Swizzle - Swizzle Inn, Stagger Out.

  • Conservatory Bar

    Within the Rosewood Tucker’s Point Hotel, the bar offers breathtaking views of Castle Harbour and a wide selection of gins.

  • Sunken Harbor Club

    An outpost of the Brooklyn cocktail bar of the same name, this place serves some serious cocktails.

Things To Do

  • Walk around St George’s

    Wander the streets of the oldest surviving English Settlement in the New World (and a UNESCO World Heritage Site) - stop by the Unfinished Church, St Peter’s Church, Moongate Brewing Co, and Lili Bermuda Perfumery. 

  • Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse

    This lighthouse offers sweeping vistas of the island and is a memorable excursion for guests who want a break from beach-lounging. Close to the Fairmont Southampton!

  • Bermuda National Gallery

    The Bermuda National Gallery houses Bermuda’s national art collection and presents innovative exhibitions and programming in the heart of Hamilton.

  • Tennis, Golf, and Beach Clubs

    Both the Rosewood and the Fairmont Southampton offer tennis courts, world-class golf courses, and private beach clubs, so you can stay balanced. We have secured preferential rates. 

  • National Museum of Bermuda

    The National Museum of Bermuda shares the island’s diverse cultural heritage through its collections, exhibits, and educational programmes to connect people to Bermuda’s history.

  • Scuba Diving

    We recommend Dive Bermuda Grotto Bay for guests staying at Rosewood Tucker’s Point and Dive Bermuda Somerset for guests staying at the Fairmont Southampton.

  • Crystal and Fantasy Caves

    An otherworldly network of caves and subterranean lakes. 

For more local recommendations, check out Go To Bermuda

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