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L. Cox
Historic, Cultural and Natural Bermuda Sites ~ not to be missed

Bermuda offers an array of exquisite beaches of pink sand and turquoise water. Why are the beaches pink? The sand contains pink flecks that are the remains of a tiny organism known as the red foam. This combined with tiny particles of broken shells and bits of coral create the pink hue of Bermuda’s beautiful beaches.

Bermuda has a number of parks & trails spread across the island with the Railway Trail running from St. George's to Somerset, the thread connecting many of the parks. The Railway Trail is used by locals and visitors for walking, cycling, and various tours. Every May a major event, the Bermuda End to End, is held utilising the Trail as a community fundraiser for local charities. Development of the Trail and Parks system is ongoing. A fabulous guide book for the self-guided tour of the back roads of Bermuda is 'Hiking Bermuda' by Cecile and Stephen Davidson.

No matter where you travel in Bermuda you are never too far from a museum featuring the art, history and culture of Bermuda. The island’s rich history is recorded in museums from St. George’s through the City of Hamilton and on to Somerset and Dockyard, highlighting everything from art, china, maps, paintings, carriages, stamps, maritime and underwater objects that highlight Bermuda’s turbulent seafaring days.

Click here for Bermuda's Public Holidays.

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Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute ~ BUEI

Discover the mysteries of the ocean frontier. BUEI offers many underwater exhibits and interactive educational computer games. See Bermuda's oceans come to life! The Jack Lightbourne Shell collection is one of the world's most spectacular display of ocean mollusks. The Deep & Bioluminescence exhibit takes you on a 12,000 foot dive in a simulated submersible and the Treasure Room & Shipwreck Galley are facinating displays of Teddy Tucker's artifacts from his numerous dives around Bermuda. Underwater Bermuda allows you to try diving yourself!

Crystal and Fantasy Caves ~ Nature's Jewellery Box


Crystal Cave was found in 1884 by the Wilkinson’s, owners of the property where the caves are located. The magnificent crystal stalactites and stalagmites surrounding a clear blue azure lake were formed over 30 million years ago. Proper illumination has been installed and even the formations on the bottom of the lake are clearly visible. Fantasy Cave has been linked to Crystal Caves so both can be seen in one tour. Rare chandelier soda straw formations hang from the ceiling. Underground water passageways connect the cave “lakes” with the ocean. These caves are truly spectacular and not to be missed.

Open from 9am-5pm daily, with the last tour at 4.30pm. We are located in Bailey’s Bay, near the Swizzle Inn, accessible by bus from Hamilton or St. George’s. ‘Fiddlestix’ gift shop has just that unique item for special someone or yourself! Enjoy drinks, coffee or light snack at the Café Olé.

Devil's Hole Aquarium

Devil’s Hole was Bermuda’s first and oldest natural tourist attraction. It has retained many of its original features that brought it into prominence, like "fishing without a hook". It has expanded however, into a multi-functional complex including Angel Wings Cafe, a gift shop and even a boat tour of Harrington Sound aboard a Triman, the Argo II. Head to John Smith's Bay for a swim afterwards! See you when you get here. Phone: (441) 293-2072

Dolphin Quest Bermuda

Dolphin Quest offers exclusive group programs for small and large groups, from 8 to 200+ guests. Your group can get in the water and meet dolphins up-close or enjoy a high-energy dolphin show. Now available is Lessons from Dolphins, our newest corporate teambuilding program in which dolphins help to demonstrate lessons in strategy, communication, motivation and more. Our programs are extremely popular so make your reservation ahead of the crowds. Call Toll-free 800.248.3316 or visit us at dolphinquest.org to book your reservation for dol-Fun today!

The Bermuda Craft Market

At The Bermuda Craft Market in Dockyard. you will find a diverse selection of original Bermuda Crafts ideal for that special present or simply for your own pleasure or collection. Established in 1987 by the Chamber of Commerce and the Department of Tourism as a unique outlet for Arts and Crafts in Bermuda, it now enjoys charity status and functions as the only successful cooperative in Bermuda. In the rustic setting of the old Cooperage Building, crafters display and demonstrate their artistry. There are handcrafted candles, cedar, ceramics, Christmas ornaments, decorative painting, decoupage, dolls, gems, glass jewelry and more.

Achilles Bay Beach

Achilles Bay gets its name from its heel-like shape. These calm blue waters match perfectly with its secluded location and tranquil setting. Right next to Fort St Catherine, the location of this beach makes is it easy to explore not only the town of St. George, but all the other sights of the east end of the island.

Alexandra Battery and Observation Station (Northern Command)

Located on the eastern coast of St. George's Island, it was the centre of a line of coastal defenses, with Fort St. Catherine and St. David's Battery at either side. Initially built in the 1840s, it was completely rebuilt in the 1870s for five Rifled Muzzle Loaders, then revised for two 6-inch Breech Loaders in the 1890s. The Gibraltar Shield is the only one known in Bermuda and is a very rare feature of such fortifications worldwide.

Astwood Cove & Park

More famous for being a site of romantic island weddings than swimming, nevertheless this cove is a delight to experienced swimmers. Its rocky shore line and strong waters are not for amateur swimmers. For observers there’s a magnificent park maintained by Bermuda’s Parks department ideal for picnics and nature walks. It is also a photographers dream and understandably why a popular wedding vista.

Barr's Bay Park

Barr's Bay Park is right on the Hamilton Harbour next to the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club along Pitts Bay Road. It is a fabulous place for a picnic lunch and to watch the boats go by. Named for a Bermudian family dating back to 1727. The park is wheelchair accessible and often used for outdoor events in Bermuda, such as the Bermuda Boat Parade and the Bermuda Big Game Classic.

Bermuda Historical Society Museum

“Par-La-Ville”, a Georgian style house built by William Perot in 1814, is located on the fringes of Par-La-Ville Park, which used to be their private garden. The immense rubber tree in front was planted in 1847. There are varied displays of artifacts from an era gone by – Bermuda cedar furniture, silver flatware, ceramics and glassware, as well as portraits and paintings. William’s son, William Bennet Perot lived on this property all his life and was the Postmaster of Hamilton for many years. The old Perot Post Office still is in existence today as an operating Post Office. Find out about how the first "Postmaster" stamp originated in 1848.

Bermuda Maritime Museum & Commissioner's House

The Bermuda Maritime Museum comprises of many buildings with displays of information on navigation, whaling, treasures from the sea, coins and much more. The Ordinance Buildings are unique in design and fabrication. The COMMISSIONER'S HOUSE which is one of these buildings is believed to be the first building in the Dockyard, and the first cast-iron building of this size in the world. It was designed by Edward Hull, the Chief Architect of the Royal Navy, and the mansion gained international attention because of its prefabricated design. It stands on the highest point on the northeast end of Ireland Island offering magnificent views. In it's many rooms you will see exhibits of paintings, history of immigration of different nationalities and luxurios banquet rooms that may be hired out for special events. For more information call the Bermuda Maritime Museum 441-234-1333.

Blue Hole Park

This 12-acre nature reserve is located just opposite of Grotto Bay Beach Resort with parking and restrooms. There is a well groomed trail featuring wetland habitat, an observation post for bird watching and the fairytale setting of the Blue Grotto. Stand on the wooden platform and lose yourself staring into the deep blue waters that fill this sunken cave. There is also a limestone cavern hidden among the vegetation.

Botanical Gardens

No matter where you travel in Bermuda it is hard to miss the profuse array of flowers and trees that line the roadsides. Many trees native to the island produce scented flowers that fill the air with perfume. The Botanical Gardens in Paget is one of Bermuda’s major attractions. The 35-acre landscaped park contains hundreds of clearly identified flowers, shrubs and trees, including a vast collection of subtropical fruit, hibiscus, an aviary, banyan trees and a garden for the blind. A good way to see the expanse of gardens is to take the walking tour, which lasts for 90 minutes and stretches from the Point Finger Road, to Berry Hill and the South Shore Road.

"Camden House" is located in the Botanical Gardens and is the official residence of the Premier used only for offical functions, not a living quarters. It is an historic example of typical Bermudian architecture, it was first built in the early 1700's and houses wonderful antiques and art. Free tours are given on Tuesdays and Fridays from 12noon to 2pm, unless official functions are scheduled. Plan to see this beautiful old Bermuda home after the Botanical Gardens tour!

The Bermuda Botanical Society operates the Visitor Centre open from 9:30am to 3:30pm (except Holidays) and holds a walking tour of the Gardens on Tuesdays & Fridays 10:30 am year-round, weather permitting, beginning at the Visitors Centre. The Visitor Centre also has a wonderful Craft Shop with lots of unique gift items, and a place to have sandwich, coffee, tea or cool drink.

Burnt Point Fort

Located on the small peninsula at the end of Ferry Reach. This structure was built of soft Bermuda stone in the early 17th century (mid- 1600s) to defend the mouth of Ferry Reach Channel. It is open to the public and in close proximity to Martello Tower and Ferry Point Magazine. Access by foot only.

Cabinet Building

Initially it was the Colonial Secretariat being completed in 1841 and remodeled in 1938. In 1968 it became the office of the Premier of Bermuda and the government of the day. It houses the Senate of Bermuda,which meets here every Wednesday while the House of Assembly is in session at Sessions House. The Senate Chamber is open to the public 9am - 5pm on weekdays except Tuesdays and public holidays. Interior walls have portraits of past Premiers and Senate presidents. There are many other important paintings you can see. There is a guided tour on Monday's from November to March.Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Nixon and Bush; British Prime Ministers Macmillan, Heath and Thatcher; and Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip and Prince Charles sat at the circular table.

Cathedral of the Most Holy

The structure we know today as 'The Cathedral' is in fact not the original building. The first building was destroyed by an arsonist in 1884. Built of native stone and imported Caen stone, the Cathedral of The Most Holy Trinity was designed by William Hay of Edinburgh in Restoration Gothic-style in the shape of a Roman Cross. Some of the stonework around the windows, doors and arches came from Normandy, France. The Cathedral that stands today was built in 1886 and the finally finished in 1905. Those energetic persons can climb 155 stairs leading to the top of the tower with fabulous panoramic views overlooking the City of Hamilton.

Centotaph at the Cabinet Building

The Cenotaph in front of the Cabinet Building is a replica of the famous war memorial Cenotaph at Whitehall, London. The flags presented are of the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and British Army, memorializing Bermudians were in those British military services, died in World Wars I & II and whose names are on the Cenotaph. Every Remembrance Day, November 11, there is a parade and wreath presentation around the Cenotaph.

 

Church Bay in Southampton Parish

After a makeover from 2003’s Hurricane Fabian, this popular snorkeling spot has revived not only for wonderful snorkeling, but other water sports too. Catch glimpses of the colorful array of fish, coral reef and sandy beach to experience the full tranquil experience of Church Bay. You can rent snorkeling equipment from May 1 - October 30 from Church Bay Beach Rentals.

Clearwater Beach & Park

Clearwater Beach and Park off of St. David’s Island is actually two man-made beaches created when the airport land was reclaimed around 1946 as a US military base and joined to smaller islands. It has been a public recreation area since 1996 with playground, beaches, hardscape for cycling, rollerblading and other activities. Many Bermudians enjoy this area, as it is a great location for a church picnic, company party or music festivals. There is ample parking and during the summer months a lifeguard is on duty.

Stretches of turtle grass create dark patches offshore and at the same time provide a feeding station for turtles and fish. Overhead, one may observe arriving and departing aircraft from the adjacent Bermuda International Airport which, by the way does nothing to disturb the tranquility of the area.

Coney Island Lime Kiln

Located on the southeastern coast of Coney Island, the kiln was constructed by the British military to supply lime to the many fortifications erected at the eastern end of Bermdua in the 19th Century, and probably built in the 1820s. Some off-road parking available.

Corporation of Hamilton ~ City Hall

It wasn't until 1815 that it became the governmental as well as business captial of the island. The City of Hamilton generates more than $3 billion a year towards the Bermudian gross domestic product. It is the biggest captive insurance centre in the world as well as competing in reinsurance with New York and London. There are Fortune 500 companies, the Taipans of Hong Kong, the major accountants, some of the best legal talent anywhere and all types of insurance. The city is fully wired underground, including a fibre-optic circuit with reliable power.

The Corporation of Hamilton manages the city under the elected Mayor and council members. They are responsible for the streets, the docks, sewerage, garbage, parking, open spaces and more on an annual budget of approximately $20 million. Hamilton is a a very clean city with several parks making them a favourite lunchtime spot - Par-La-Ville Park, Victoria Park and Barr's Park.

Devonshire Redoubt

Located on the northern side of Castle Island and constructed in 1621 to defend the entrance and anchorage of Castle Harbour and replace Moore's Fort, which burned to the ground in 1619. It has a central tower, a rampart for cannon and serveral magazines, as well as a watercatch. Accessible by boat to Castle Island National Park.

Dockyard

Built by Royal decree to defend British superiority on the seas, the Royal Naval Dockyard is today a resplendent place of discovery. Within the walls of this nineteenth century fortress where troops once marched, there are now lawns, flower lined lanes, fine dining and a quaint Clocktower shopping mall. Where once all was war readiness, now exists an invitation to adventure. Swim with dolphins, snorkel at the Snorkel Park, or explore the historic Maritime Museum. By daylight or moonlight, there is so much to discover. Take the entire family on an outing to the West End...Discover the Dockyard...Bermuda’s Royal Outing! (441) 234-1709

Dockyard: The Keep

Located at the northern end of Dockyard and constructed in 1820s, there are eight buildings - the Commissioner's House, the cannon ramparts, six magazines and seven bastions. The Keep and Dockyard defenses were built to hold the naval base and to give some coverage to Royal Navy ships at anchor in Grassy Bay. The Keep is now the home of the Bermuda Maritime Museum. Good parking in Dockyard.

Dockyard: The Land Front

What is now the road entrance to Dockyard is the southern boundary of Dockyard constructed in the 1820s and served to protect against attack by a land force. There are a number of buildings - the Right Advance, the Ramparts and magazines at Casemate Barracks. This area was used as a prison for 20 years, know as "Casemates". No public access.

Dockyard: The Western Rampart and Bastions H & I

It is the western boundary of the Dockyard, the center portion of the three-sided defense work, constructed in the 1820s to defend the seaward approaches from the west. The Western Rampart extends from the Casemate Barracks to the Keep, with extentions of Bastions, "H" & "I".Two bastions gaurded the flanks of the rampart. It served as the only road to the upper level of the Keep until 1920's, when the road entered at Casemates Barracks. No public access.

Ferry Island Fort & the Ferry

Located on the summit of the small Ferry Island at Ferry Reach Park, appropriately named because the ferry shuttled between St. George's and the Bermuda islands and was situated on the southern side of this small island and connected by a bridge to St. George's island. No buildings have survived, only a ferry dock which is badly damaged by the sea and years of neglect. The fort thought to be built in early the 19th Century, was intended to guard the passage known as Ferry Reach protecting the ferry landings on both sides of the channel. A footbridge links the island from Ferry Point.

Ferry Point Magazine

Located on the northern side of Ferry Reach Park, a few hundred feet from Martello Tower. The Magazine along with its courtyard wall was built of soft Bermuda stone in the 1820s and used for storing gunpowder for the forts at Ferry Point. It is the only structure built from soft Bermuda stone that has survived. Accessible by foot only.

Fort Albert

Located on a hill overlooking the east coast of St. George's Island, just east of Fort Victoria. Fort Albert was built in the 1840s to defend the entrance to the Narrows Channel, Bermuda's only ship channel to the dockyard. The fort is on the old Club Med site. Four 10-inch RML guns were here and moved to Fort St. Catherine in the 1960s. No public access.

Fort Cunningham

Located on the southern half of Paget Island, it is the only fort with straight wrought iron frontages for seven gunports. It was built to defend the entrance to the Narrows Channel in the 1820s, then rebuilt in the 1870s for nine Rifled Muzzle Loader cannons. In the 1890s it was rearmed with two Rifled Breech Loaders. Accessible by boat only.

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