Gardens & Abbey

Discover the captivating blend of natural beauty and rich history on Barbados’ Gardens & Abbey tour. Explore the stunning Flower Forest Botanical Gardens, a verdant oasis teeming with tropical plants and hidden waterfalls. Then, venture to the historic St. Nicholas Abbey, where you’ll enjoy exclusive rum sampling and learn about the distillation process amidst the abbey’s striking architecture. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into Barbados’ cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or history buff, the Gardens & Abbey tour promises to leave you intrigued and yearning to uncover more.

About Your Stay

• The tour includes a visit to the Flower Forest Botanical Gardens, which showcases diverse tropical plant life and vibrant blooms across 53 acres.
• Travelers can explore the well-preserved St. Nicholas Abbey, a historic sugar plantation that offers exclusive rum sampling experiences.
• The Flower Forest provides serene walking trails with panoramic vistas of Barbados’ rolling hills and coastline.
• St. Nicholas Abbey features an informative display on the history and distilling process of Barbadian spirits.
• The tour offers a chance to immerse in Barbados’ rich heritage, from the sugar production at Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill to the natural beauty of the Flower Forest.

Tour Overview

On this half-day sightseeing tour of Barbados, guests will experience the island’s rich history and natural beauty.

They’ll visit St. Nicholas Abbey Great House and Distillery, where they can sample 12- and 18-year rums.

The tour also includes a stop at the Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill and the Flower Forest Botanical Gardens, offering a scenic drive along Barbados’ east coast.

The tour operates from September 2021 to June 2025, with pickup times between 8:30 AM and 9:15 AM.

An air-conditioned vehicle accommodates up to 32 travelers, and all entrance fees, lunch, and gratuities are included in the tour price starting from $80.

Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with pickup at your hotel or designated meeting point between 8:30 AM and 9:15 AM.

You’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey.

The tour has a maximum of 32 travelers, allowing for an intimate experience.

The pickup and transportation are included in the tour price, along with all entrance fees, lunch, and gratuities, providing a hassle-free experience.

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Pickup between 8:30 AM and 9:15 AM
• Maximum of 32 travelers
• All transportation and fees included

Rum Sampling at St. Nicholas Abbey

After boarding the air-conditioned vehicle, travelers arrive at the historic St. Nicholas Abbey Great House and Distillery.

Here, they experience an exclusive rum sampling, tasting both the 12-year and 18-year aged rums. The knowledgeable guides share the fascinating history and distilling process of these renowned Barbadian spirits.

Visitors learn about the unique terroir and traditions that contribute to the rums’ distinctive flavors. This hands-on tasting allows travelers to appreciate the craftsmanship and complexity of these premium offerings.

The rum sampling is a highlight of the tour, providing an immersive cultural experience and a chance to savor the island’s renowned spirits.

Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill

Travelers then journey to the Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill, a well-preserved example of Barbados’ rich sugar production heritage.

The tour provides a glimpse into the island’s storied past, as visitors explore the:

• Towering, 18th-century windmill that once powered the sugar refining process
• Expansive grounds where sugar cane was cultivated and processed
• Original machinery and equipment used in the milling and boiling of sugar
• Informative displays that chronicle the history and evolution of the sugar industry

This stop offers a fascinating look into Barbados’ economic and cultural roots, complementing the earlier rum tasting experience at St. Nicholas Abbey.

Flower Forest Botanical Gardens

Next, the tour visits the Flower Forest Botanical Gardens, a serene oasis teeming with lush tropical foliage and vibrant blooms.

Nestled in the heart of Barbados, this 53-acre garden showcases a diverse array of plant life, from towering palms to delicate orchids.

Visitors can stroll along winding paths, discover hidden waterfalls, and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.

The gardens also boast stunning panoramic vistas of the island’s rolling hills and distant coastline.

With its well-maintained trails and informative signage, the Flower Forest offers a delightful respite from the bustling city and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of Barbados.

Scenic East Coast Drive

The scenic drive along the east coast of Barbados offers travelers a breathtaking glimpse into the island’s natural wonders.

As the air-conditioned vehicle winds its way along the rugged coastline, passengers are treated to stunning vistas of crashing waves, towering cliffs, and lush, verdant hills.

Along the way, they may spot:

• Dramatic rock formations and sea caves carved by the relentless ocean
• Quaint fishing villages nestled between the coast and rolling hills
• Lush, tropical foliage that cascades down the hillsides to the turquoise waters below
• Sweeping panoramic views of the island’s rugged eastern shore

This scenic drive provides a tranquil and picturesque interlude amidst the day’s other activities.

Pricing and Cancellation

The tour price starts from $80.00, offering a Lowest Price Guarantee.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility. A Reserve now and pay later option is also available, making it easier to secure their spot.

The tour includes all entrance fees, lunch, and gratuities, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

With these attractive pricing and cancellation policies, the Gardens & Abbey tour offers excellent value for money, catering to a range of budgets and preferences.

Accessibility and Requirements

One notable aspect of the Gardens & Abbey tour is its accessibility and requirements. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible, making it suitable for families with young children.

Infant seats are available for those traveling with babies. While most travelers can participate, it’s important to note these accessibility considerations.

The tour experience includes:

• Walking through the lush Flower Forest Botanical Gardens
• Exploring the historic St. Nicholas Abbey Great House and Distillery
• Scenic drives along Barbados’ picturesque east coast
• Sampling the famous 12- and 18-year rums produced on-site

Questions About Your Stay

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no specific dress code for the tour, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. The tour involves some outdoor activities, so dressing for the weather is advised.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?

The tour does not provide luggage storage. However, the tour operator recommends arranging luggage storage with your hotel or accommodation prior to the tour start time to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?

The tour includes lunch, but there’s no information provided about any dietary restrictions. Participants should contact the tour provider if they have any specific dietary needs that need to be accommodated.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Abbey?

Yes, visitors are generally permitted to take photographs inside the St. Nicholas Abbey Great House and Distillery during the tour. However, visitors should check with the tour guide for any specific restrictions or guidelines before taking photos within the abbey.

How Often Do the Tour Buses Run Throughout the Day?

The tour buses run once per day, with a pickup time between 8:30 AM and 9:15 AM. The exact schedule may vary, so travelers should confirm the pickup time with the service provider before their tour.

Booking Your Stay

The Gardens & Abbey tour offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical exploration in Barbados. Visitors enjoy the lush Flower Forest Botanical Gardens, then savor exclusive rum tastings at the historic St. Nicholas Abbey. This comprehensive experience provides an unforgettable glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. Whether seeking natural wonders or delving into the past, this tour delivers an enriching and memorable adventure.