View overlooking Emerald Bay with Fannette Island

Nestled among incense cedar, mountain hemlock and various species of fragrant pine, Emerald Bay in Lake Tahoe, California lures guests with its enchanting mountain scenery, towering granite cliffs and Eagle Falls flowing down the rocks like something out of a fairytale. The water here runs several shades of deep emerald green – a green so vibrant and soothing one cannot help but ponder its beauty. This magical place is home to the lovely Vikingsholm, also known as “Tahoe’s hidden castle.”

Built as a summer home by Mrs. Lora Josephine Knight in 1929, Vikingsholm is a testament to architectural ingenuity in the Scandinavian tradition. The impressive beauty of Emerald Bay with its lofty granite bluffs reminded her of the fjords in Norway, and she decided that the house must be of Scandinavian architecture. Details like hand carved beams, wrought iron fixtures and latches, leaded glass windows, the carved balustrade, and the painted walls and furniture lend this 38-room reproduction of a medieval Norse fortress a timeless elegance. The house makes the most of the spectacular views of the bay.

View of Eagle Falls at Emerald Bay

Hiking to Eagle Falls and the surrounding woods, swimming and sunbathing by the sandy beach, or rowing out to Fannette Island with its Tea House (also built by Mrs. Knight) are favorite activities in Emerald Bay.

In touring Vikingsholm, one imagines what it may have been like to stay here as a guest: an unhurried life where long idyllic days blended seamlessly into tranquil nights. Time stood still. It was an era of gracious living, where one paused to smell the pine, walk through the trees, watch for birds, contemplate the wildlife or just relax with a book under the shade of a ponderosa as the fragrant breeze stirred by the bay gently blew.

The exquisite architectural detail and craftsmanship is evident in Vikingsholm

Vikingsholm has a medieval charm and craftsmanship with all the modern amenities of the early 1930s: electricity, running water and indoor plumbing. Each bedroom in the main house had its own bath with modern fixtures. The large pantry and kitchen boasted high-end appliances of the time.

Living room view of Vikingsholm

The house itself is built in a circular structure with a large courtyard in the center. Facing the front with the best views of Emerald Bay is the main house with its elegant living and dining rooms, library and morning room. The second floor features several bedrooms with bathrooms, a sewing room (complete with sewing accoutrements of the 1930s), maid’s room and sitting porch. The large kitchen, servants’ quarters, garage and laundry room flank the sides and rear of the courtyard.

The hike down to Emerald Bay and Vikingsholm after parking in the lot above is a comfortable 20 minutes (1.7 miles) and perfect for families with children. Although unpaved, the path is wide (wide enough for cars) and can easily accommodate strollers (jogger strollers would be best considering the dirt road). It’s a lovely walk where dappled sunlight filters through the pines above, and little grottos with streams of fresh cool water appear along the way. The return walk back up to the parking lot is a bit more of a workout, but still an easy hike. We paused to dip our hands and refresh ourselves in those little grottos, and the cold water felt wonderful.

Suggestions

The water of Emerald Bay runs in stunning hues of green

There is a sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing so bring towels and beach chairs. The only way down and back is on foot, so pack light because you will have to carry things yourself. Bug spray is recommended for the biting flies and mosquitoes, although we did not require any. Bring your own food and water because there is no concession stand available.

Vikingsholm is open for guided tours from Memorial Day weekend through the end of September. The Visitor Center features interesting information, memorabilia and photos of Vikingsholm’s early days. For more information about Vikingsholm visit www.vikingsholm.com

Sand Harbor - jewel tone crystal waters

There is a place in the Sierra Nevada mountains with 55 acres of long sandy beaches, rocky coves and crystalline waters that shimmer in sparkling hues of turquoise, emerald and aquamarine: welcome to Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park.

Sand Harbor - scenic self-guided trails

With an elevation of 6,230 feet above sea level, this fresh water paradise is a popular spot for swimming, scuba diving, picnicking, kayaking, boating (there is a boat launch) and sightseeing along the self-guided nature trails that feature informative displays and regional information. A boat rental concession “Sand Harbor Rentals” is located next to the launch ramp where kayaks, stand up paddleboards, sea-doos, wakeboards, and Hobie Mirage Pedal/Paddle Kayaks can be conveniently rented. They are open daily from Memorial weekend through Labor Day and offer guided tours and lessons as well.

Sand Harbor - beautiful rock formations

Memorial Point is just a short half-mile trail and provides access to many secluded beach and rock areas.

The rock formations and trees are really quite stunning. Large granite boulders rest in the clear water as though tossed haphazardly from above, and make for great snorkeling. But the color of the water is what most captivates onlookers with its limpid jewel tones so reminiscent of the Caribbean.

During the evenings of the summer months in July and August, visitors can enjoy the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival in Sand Harbor where some of the best plays are showcased.

Sand Harbor - "CharPit Sand Harbor" and Visitor Center

This family beach is clean, beautiful and well maintained. There is a visitor center, gift shop, snack bar and grill concession “CharPit Sand Harbor” where beverages, burgers and ice cream can be enjoyed on a shady deck next to the visitor center. A picnic area features barbecues and picnic tables among the shade of the cedars and pines.

Sand Harbor is located three miles south of Incline Village on State Route 28.

Suggestions

Due to its popularity, summer months can get crowded for both parking and finding a spot on the beach. The parking lots tend to be full between 11am-4pm on weekends and weekdays during July and August. It’s best to come early or just wait until the late afternoon. The trail along the beach offers exquisite views of Sand Harbor and is very much worth walking. It is easy to manage and both stroller and handicap-accessible. Although the summer months are warm, the water remains quite brisk, being an alpine lake, yet still worth a refreshing plunge.

Sand Harbor - an alpine lake with a Caribbean feel

Alpine Meadows Stables

There is nothing like exploring the beautiful alpine surroundings of Tahoe National Forest on horseback. It takes one back to a time when people and nature lived in closer harmony. Alpine Meadows Stables captures this sublime experience perfectly.

I went on a one-hour scenic guided tour with my husband and two children (ages 7 & 9) in July 2011. We felt immediately welcomed and at ease when we arrived to this family owned and operated establishment. Nestled in the lush evergreens of the forest just 10 minutes away from Tahoe City, California, I was struck by the picturesque and tranquil surroundings.

Horses at Alpine Meadows Stables

A group of six of us was led by Matt, an experienced and very knowledgeable guide with a wonderful, easygoing charm. The horses were gentle, obedient and very sweet as we followed along on the scenic path. It was everything a guided tour should be: from crossing shallow streams, to winding our way up gentle slopes through the ponderosa pine, to pausing in the clearings where we spotted a couple of stags grazing.

Crossing a stream in the forest

Matt pointed out some bear claw marks that were clearly etched in the trunk of a pine that the bear had climbed. This was very exciting for both the children and us who rarely have opportunities to get that close to the wild. Matt also mentioned that he saw black bears on an earlier ride that day. 

The children were very comfortable and relaxed on the horses, and had an easy time following the simple instructions as to guiding them. It was a wonderful educational lesson, one that inspired respect for the animals and the environment around them.

We had many opportunities to take photos and video of the scenic natural beauty and the horses. Our tour never lagged, but rather seemed to fly by at a perfect pace. After returning and dismounting, we thanked our guide and made a mental note to return next time we are in the area.

Alpine Meadows Stables offers several scenic tours: one hour, two hour and half-day tours. Private rides are also available. There are pony rides (hand lead) for toddlers too. I recommend the one hour tour for those with children who are not very experienced, as it was just enough time to get a taste of the forest’s grandeur. It is best to make reservations a few days in advance, as this is a popular activity.

Alpine Meadows Stables is located at 355 Alpine Meadows Rd. Tahoe City, CA 96145 (530)-583-3905. For more information visit www.alpinemeadowsstables.com

Picturesque surroundings on the tour

Resort at Squaw Creek - tucked in the evergreens

The late afternoon summer sun illuminates Squaw Valley in golden emerald hues. Silence reigns as the day draws to a close, before the night awakens. I stare out through the floor-to-ceiling picture windows from my suite in the Resort at Squaw Creek in Squaw Valley, California, mesmerized by nature’s beauty. It is here where the resort is found, tucked in a lush valley of dense pine lining the hillsides like rich green velvet.

Resort at Squaw Creek - lobby view at dusk

I had the pleasure of staying at this lovely resort with my husband and two children in July 2011. Although summer was in full-swing, the resort’s layout and design makes one feel secluded. It does not have that crowded feeling one often gets from other resorts. Its location is simply perfect: nestled among the evergreens of lodgepole, sugar and ponderosa pines, with quaking aspen and their leaves shimmering like medallions in the sunlight.

Resort at Squaw Creek - scenic view from lobby

We were greeted by verdant panoramic views ushered by the glass wall upon entering the lobby, with its expansive seating areas that are cozy and inviting. Upholstered in rich muted chenille and butter-soft leather, the furniture and décor enhances the natural beauty of the alpine surroundings. There is a large stone fireplace with a granite hearth, wood paneling, and subtle accents that convey the warmth of home. A baby grand piano and several game tables – two for chess and one for checkers – offer a quiet diversion after dinner, or anytime in between the day’s activities.

Everything about the resort is defined by gracious hospitality. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and very helpful, from the housekeeping services, the resort restaurants and shops, to the concierge and front desk staff.

Accommodations

Luxurious Accommodations - Resort at Squaw Creek

All the luxurious accommodations include their super comfortable “Deep Powder” pillow-top beds, remote-controlled LCD flat-screen TVs, speakerphones with voice mail, free high-speed wireless Internet access, refrigerators, hair dryers and robes, irons and ironing boards, in-room coffee and tea, individual heating and cooling controls, complimentary delivered newspapers (Monday-Friday), Pay-Per-View movies and video games, and signature spa amenities (shampoo, conditioner, and more).

Living Room with magnificent views in our Penthouse Suite

The suites and townhouse-style penthouses also include separate bedrooms with LCD flat-screen TV, living room with gas fireplace, LCD flat-screen TV and queen-sized sofa sleeper, dining table and chairs, and resort-style kitchens with granite counters and stainless steel appliances (china, glassware and silverware provided). Each penthouse bedroom comes with its own private bathroom. There is a washer/dryer stackable unit in the penthouse suites, as well as a coin-operated laundry facility in the resort.

Attention is given to every detail from the accommodations’ plush comfortable furniture upholstered in richly textured fabrics of warm muted colors, to the large picture windows making the most of the breathtaking views, to the exquisite chocolates placed on lacey doilies on the bedstand during the nightly turndown service.

Dining

Lobby Fireplace - Resort at Squaw Creek

Six Peaks Grille

The Resort at Squaw Creek features several fantastic choices for family-friendly dining. The Six Peaks Grille offers distinctive regional cuisine with fresh produce, seafood and steaks, and spectacular mountain and valley views. Their children’s menu is delicious with plenty of options for the pickiest eaters, including healthy side choices such as fruit, salad and vegetables. The Lip S’Mac n Cheese was the best my daughter has tried anywhere, creamy and lip-smacking good, as the name suggests. We were very pleased with the fantastic service and delicious cuisine in a discreetly elegant yet laid-back atmosphere. They are open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Exterior Waterfall Display - Resort at Squaw Creek

Sandy’s Pub

The perfect family sports bar, Sandy’s Pub offers a delicious fare of tasty appetizers and meals. The chicken wings are by far the best we’ve had anywhere and come with a creamy ranch dipping sauce that leaves you licking your fingers clean. The casual atmosphere is inviting with lots of ski memorabilia photos displayed at the entrance, big TV screens throughout, and games.

Sweet Potatoes Deli

The Sweet Potatoes Deli is where we had our breakfast every morning, with hot coffee (free refills are included) and a delicious assortment of rolls and pastries. They also offer a savory array that includes deli sandwiches, salads, homemade soup, juices, yogurts, and more. They are open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This cheerful marketplace also conveniently sells a variety of gifts, souvenirs, sundries, books, magazines, and toys.

Recreation

Winter Dog Sledding on the Property - Resort at Squaw Creek

Winter and Spring recreation (approximately November-April) offers exclusive on-property chair lift with ski-in/ski-out access to Squaw Valley USA’s 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, 18 kilometers of groomed cross-country skiing/snowshoe trails, an outdoor ice skating pavilion, sledding, and dog sled tours. There are two outdoor heated swimming pools and hot tubs for year-round use as well.

Resort at Squaw Creek Waterslide

Summer and Fall recreation (approximately May-October) offers the Robert Trent Jones Jr. 18-hole championship golf course, two outdoor tennis courts with lessons and equipment rental available, mountain biking trails to 8,200 feet above sea level, onsite hiking trails, plunge pool with 120-foot water slide, hiking/backpacking, fly fishing lessons and guided trips. 

Resort at Squaw Creek Pool and Golf Course

The resort also features a luxury full-service spa and salon, health and fitness center with sauna and steam rooms, a boutique shopping promenade with designer fashions, jewelry, fine art, sporting equipment, children’s clothing and toys, and much more.

There is complimentary shuttle service to the nearby Village at Squaw Valley which offers more shopping, dining and entertainment that includes a miniature golf course, Headwall Climbing Wall (all ages), and Skyjump Bungee Trampoline (all ages, 20-200 lbs.). There are also plenty of Lake Tahoe activities, including water sports, shopping, dining and casinos located on the Nevada shoreline. Kayaking, white water rafting, Truckee River floating, and horseback riding can be conveniently arranged through the concierge.

Mountain Buddies Kids Kamp

Fly Fishing Lake Tahoe

The Mountain Buddies Kids Kamp for children ages 4-12 is a year-round children’s program with exciting seasonal activities ranging from swimming, hiking, biking, sledding, ice skating, snow shoeing, indoor and outdoor games, arts and crafts, and more. Several sessions are available including: full-day session 9am-5pm (includes lunch), morning session 9am-12:30pm, afternoon session 1:30pm-5pm, and evening session 6pm-10pm (includes dinner).

Shopping Promenade at the Resort at Squaw Creek

Resort Amenities

Additional resort amenities include babysitting services, cribs, an arcade, baggage services, bell captain, a terrific business center (my husband made use of this during our stay when he had a few documents faxed to his clients), check cashing/ATM, express checkout, concierge, wake-up services, laundry facilities, complimentary self-parking, paid valet parking, and more.

Suggestions

If visiting during the summer months, make sure to pack bug repellent for the mosquitoes and biting flies that are more prevalent in the late afternoon and evening hours. Although the temperature may be warm and sunny during the day, it tends to drop quite suddenly once the sun has set, so pack warm clothes as well. We found long pants best for hiking as they protect the legs from scrapes. Good hiking shoes are also essential for more serious adventures. The concierge is extremely helpful and knowledgeable about area and resort activities. If you fly here, be sure to rent a car so you can better explore Squaw Valley and the beautiful Lake Tahoe area for more sightseeing and activities.

Scenic Golf Course View - Resort at Squaw Creek

The Resort at Squaw Creek was by far one of the best family vacations we’ve had. Our days were filled with exploring the stunning natural beauty of the region through hiking/backpacking, horseback riding tours, sightseeing, swimming, and more, while our evenings comprised of recounting the day’s adventures over a delicious meal, usually at the Six Peaks Grille or Sandy’s Pub. We would then relax with a game of chess in the warmth of the lobby’s seating area, before heading back to our suite for the night. This spectacular resort is a top pick and highly recommended for families. The address is 400 Squaw Creek Road, Olympic Valley, CA 96146. For more information visit http://www.squawcreek.com/

Overview of Resort at Squaw Creek

Plan Ahead with a List

Planning ahead with a travel checklist

Make a list and check it twice (or thrice). Jot down everything you will need by category from clothes, favorite toys, medicines, toiletries, gear (pack-n-play, stroller, backpack carrier, etc.) to food and snacks. Typing up a list and saving it on your computer makes it very easy to edit and reprint every time you travel, without pulling your hair out and starting all over again. Items can be listed under each person (their own personal items and clothes) and under general categories such as toiletries, medicines and more.

Be Organized and Methodical

Start early and proceed with your packing list in hand. As you gather items and place them in the suitcases, cross them off the list. This will ensure that nothing important is forgotten. It will give you tremendous peace of mind. You may think of other items that are not on the list as you go: write them down. Later you can edit your saved list on your computer to make it easier for your next adventure.

Suitcase or Carry-on?

Keep kids occupied with their own carry-on backpacks

Determine what can go in the suitcase and what you absolutely need with you. If your children are old enough (ages 3 and up) you may want to allow them their own little carry-on backpacks with items to keep them occupied: color pad and crayons, book, a favorite toy (doll or plush toy), snacks (crackers, baby carrots or cut fruit). Allowing your children to have their own carry-on does several things: it will instill a sense of responsibility in them and help them feel “grown up.” It will give them a sense of security by having something tangible to hold. It will keep them busy and productive (and quiet) which helps you to concentrate on the getting there.

Prep Pep-Talk

Prepare your children by telling them what to expect. This is a good time to explain your rules and expectations. Tell them what behavior is expected and what will not be tolerated. Be frank and sincere. A little foresight and preparation can go a long way. This pep talk will help them to feel part of the clan, giving them a sense of pride and personal responsibility. And always, always, always follow-through with consequences. Although it may feel hard to do, it will actually make everyone happier and your travels filled with less travails. Children with clearly delineated boundaries are happier, more secure and more obedient.

Engage and Enlist

Get your kids involved in the packing process

Having your children participate in the packing process (if they are old enough) can be very exciting for them and may even make things easier for you. Sort through their clothes with them and then have them place them in the suitcase. You may even allow them to pack their carry-on bag (and then check it later). Have them cross out items on the list that have been packed. This will teach them important organizational skills that will be useful for life.

Bon Voyage!

Once you start your own list, you will find it much easier to edit it as needed depending on your destination and the activities involved. Traveling is stressful enough without children, but doing so with the kids can add a whole new dimension to stress. With a little planning and organization, you can turn every vacation into an idyllic getaway, where family bonds are strengthened and wonderful memories are made. Bon Voyage!

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Road Trip Essentials for Children, Activities and Food to Entertain

There is a place in Southern California that beckons with fresh ocean breezes, endless blue skies, and discreet elegance set within 400 acres of lush landscaping: La Costa Resort and Spa. Located in the picturesque beach town of Carlsbad, California, this resort captures Southern California’s charm and energy beautifully. I stayed here with my family recently and did not want to leave.  

La Costa - View from lobby entrance

There is something for everyone at this exclusive getaway. Play a round of golf at one of the two championship courses. Hone your tennis skills on any of the 17 tennis courts (clay and hard court surfaces), including seven lighted courts for evening play. Workout at the Athletic Club. Pamper yourself at the lauded Spa. Relax at one of the sparkling pools or hot tubs.  

La Costa - Overview of resort pools

Children will find their own sanctuary here. Mine were absolutely delighted with the swimming pools, waterslides, and water play elements that kept them enthralled for hours. Splash Landing is a children’s paradise with its two 100 foot long waterslides, a toddler slide, and an interactive water play zone.

La Costa - Splash landing interactive

La Costa also has a club just for kids: Kidtopia. Children (infants to age 12) can find plenty of age-appropriate fun in the 6,000 square foot center. There is even a Night Camp available (for bathroom independent 3-12 year olds) on Fridays & Saturdays from 6-10 pm. For guests who are 10 and up, Vibz is a playground that features high-tech games and activities including X-Box 360® room with 5 stations, two billiard tables, air hockey, foosball, video games, ping pong, and skee-ball, to name a few.  A variety of summer camp programs are also available, including Golf Camp, Tennis Camp, Spa Camp and Surf Camp.

La Costa - Kidtopia for kids

Offsite recreation, dining and shopping is terrific and conveniently located near La Costa. From Legoland (just minutes away from the hotel), to the nearby premium outlet malls, beautiful beaches, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Seaworld, the Carlsbad Flower Fields, Birch Aquarium, Temecula Valley Wineries and Vineyards (1 hour inland), and much more, there is something to please everyone in the family.

La Costa - Water slide

The deluxe accommodations are designed to please the most discriminating tastes. From the crisp bed linens and exquisite personal care and bath products, to the high-tech amenities including large flat-screen TVs and high-speed internet access, to the casually elegant décor that combines rich fabrics and refined comfort in earth-tone palettes, the effect is at once inviting and soothing.

La Costa - Suite bedroom

Most of the accommodations offer private patios with lovely vistas and cool breezes. The Villa Suites with their Spanish Colonial charm are perfect for families and feature private patios, fireplaces, kitchens and more.

La Costa - View from our villa patio

Tips for Parents

La Costa - Walkway

This family-friendly resort offers complimentary cribs with padding and linens, diaper genies and baby proofing supplies available upon request. The on-site dining features kids’ menus as well. Be sure to rent a car so you can enjoy the wonderful area attractions. The town of Carlsbad is a lovely seaside community of families with an easygoing charm that is a lot fun to explore. And La Costa Resort and Spa is one of the best family resorts in California and is featured by Tots and Travel as one of the Top 10 Family Resorts on the West Coast. For more information about this wonderful family resort visit the official La Costa Resort website at http://www.lacosta.com

Entrance to The Living Desert

A mountain lion sleeps in the shade of a rock under a juniper. Lizards bask in the early morning sun, still as statues. Meerkats stand tall, surveying the rugged landscape before them. In this land of subtropical, arid climate, life flourishes among the variety of cactus, sagebrush, palms and tumbleweed. This is The Living Desert: a 1,200-acre zoo and botanical garden in Palm Desert, California that is home to over 500 animals, and a great place for families to visit.

I came with my family in 2011 and spent three lovely hours exploring this oasis. Plants and animals from the deserts around the world are featured in the numerous exhibits.

North American Eagle Owl

The North American area showcases many creatures such as owls, bats, scorpions, mice and lizards. Majestic birds of prey including hawks, falcons and eagles offer a close encounter with visitors. Mammals such as coyote, badgers, wolves, mountain lions, bobcats and bighorn sheep graze, sleep or go about life in the safety of their protected surroundings.

Many of the animals seek refuge in sleep from the day’s heat, so it is best to come early before it gets too hot.

We really enjoyed the African exhibits with their animal habitats and gardens native to Africa. There, gazelle, addax, meerkats, warthogs, tortoises, giraffes, ostriches, camels, zebras and more captivated us. Some of the world’s most endangered animals are bred here, and reintroduced to their natural habitats.

Jaguar Sleeping - The Living Desert

The Living Desert’s Village WaTuTu is an authentic replica of a village found in northeast Africa, with its mud-walled huts and grass-thatched roofs. This was fun to explore, along with the Kumbu Kumbu Marketplace that tempts goers with their exotic wares including clothes, beads, jewelry, artifacts, books, toys and more. We stopped to refuel for lunch at the Thorn Tree Grill which provides a delicious assortment of food and beverages for hungry visitors.

Petting Kraal Entrance

Next we headed to the Petting Kraal which was fun for the children who got to roam among the sheep and goats and pet them. Later they took a camel ride which was a big hit, even getting a few pictures taken while perched high on the camel’s back.

Goats and sheep in the Petting Kraal

The Discovery Center is a welcome break from the outdoor heat. Here visitors can engage in interactive exhibits and learn about the Coachella Valley region. This is especially popular with children, and includes a craft counter, an old seismograph with computer display, touchable replica bones and skulls of Pleistocene animals, a reproduction of the desert night sky complete with constellations and night calls of the animals, a carpeted “dune” for children to crawl about and play, and more.

Merry Go Round - The Living Desert

Just past the Discovery Center is a wonderful merry-go-round with a desert twist: an endangered species carousel featuring 30 animals represented at The Living Desert and two chariots. Some of the animals include a warthog, lion, jaguar, giraffe, zebra, gazelle, hummingbird, and golden eagle.

Camel Ride - The Living Desert

Our day ended with a stop at the gift shop by the exit where we purchased a couple of plush jaguar cubs for the children before leaving the grounds. This combination of zoo and botanical gardens was a memorable encounter with creatures that are not often seen in city zoos, making it extra special.

Mount Gay Rum Distillery Entrance

It was interesting to learn about how rum is made (from sugar cane) and fun to roam the gift shop where we bought some rum and rum cakes to take back home.

Mount Gay Rum Distillery Historical Machinery

What I found most fascinating is the historical aspect of the distillery, being world’s oldest rum. Naturally, this conjured up images of pirates and their precious barrels of rum! The rum is sold in bottles of all shapes and sizes, but the gallon size (which is not exported to the United States) truly fits the popular illustration of a pirate swilling rum.

Mount Gay Rum Tasting Room

Incidentally, Barbados was home to two famous pirates of the Caribbean: Sam Lord (who lured and plundered unwary ships to their demise on the coral reefs by hanging lanterns on the coconut trees on the island) and Stede Bonnet (a retired British army major who befriended the dreaded Blackbeard himself and plundered ships until he was caught and hung for piracy in 1718).

Mount Gay Rum History of the Distillery

No trip to the Caribbean is complete without delving into its rum and pirate history, so our tour of Mount Gay Rum lent our sightseeing experience a historical edge spiked with pirate lore.

Barbados Related Attractions:

Atlantis Submarine Tour, Barbados

Welchman Hall Gully Barbados

St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation, Barbados

Farley Hill National Park, Barbados

Harrison’s Cave Barbados

Barbados Wildlife Reserve

Atlantis Submarine Tour Barbados

After a short ferry ride on a boat that took us out to sea, we boarded the submarine and then descended to a depth between 115-150 feet. Our tour guide was very informative as he spoke of the marine life and history of the area. 

Inside Atlantis Submarine Barbados at a depth of over 100 feet

Visibility was excellent, and the submarine itself was roomy and comfortable, with large viewing windows. 

Atlantis Submarine Tour School of Fish

We saw fish of all shapes, sizes and colors, (swimming in schools or alone) sea turtles, crustaceans (including lobster), the coral reef, and even a sunken ship (although this ship was purposely sunk to aid in the proliferation of marine life, it was still a captivating sight). And although I am one who easily gets seasick, I did not have a problem on this tour, other than slight queasiness which was mostly due to the rough sea conditions and inclement weather that day.

Atlantis Submarine Tour Exhibit Barbados

After the tour – which lasted about 40 minutes total – we surfaced and boarded the ferry boat, where we were offered a variety of beverages (assorted soft drinks and rum punch) to sip while being transported back to the dock.

Atlantis Submarine Tour Shipwreck Barbados

Because of its popularity, I suggest booking this tour in advance or online to avoid lines and delays.

Related Barbados Attractions:

Welchman Hall Gully Barbados
St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation, Barbados
Farley Hill National Park, Barbados
Harrison’s Cave Barbados
Barbados Wildlife Reserve
Mount Gay Rum Distillery, Barbados

Welchman Hall Gully Rainforest and Pond

We went hiking through the gully with our two children (ages 7 and 9) who loved the outdoor experience.

Welchman Hall Gully Cave

Along the way we saw many millipedes that are harmless but fascinating to children especially. We also saw a large toad nestled among the rocks.

Welchman Hall Gully Millipedes

With its light showers and mists, the moist air of the gully is redolent of the rich soil and flora, with hints of the sea in the distance. We were given umbrellas to take along to keep dry (which we borrowed free of charge by the entrance to the gully where we parked).

Welchman Hall Gully Rainforest

We walked along the stone path for about 30 minutes before returning. What was especially nice is we had the gully all to ourselves! This made the experience more exciting as we imagined hiking through the island back in time when it was first discovered.

Welchman Hall Gully Stone Hiking Path

Related Barbados Attractions:

Atlantis Submarine Tour, Barbados
St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation, Barbados
Farley Hill National Park, Barbados
Harrison’s Cave Barbados
Barbados Wildlife Reserve
Mount Gay Rum Distillery, Barbados