BRIDGETOWN — Canadians have a longstanding affinity for Barbados.

This year provides more flight options than ever, undoubtedly attracting more visitors. But for clients who prefer to steer clear of the crowds, there are still ample opportunities for a tranquil experience when escaping the winter chill.

Overlooking the sea in the quiet parish of Saint Philip, and just a 15-minute drive from the airport, the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle Resort welcomes Canadian travellers with its quintessential all-inclusive offerings.

Travelweek recently had the opportunity to explore the resort’s impressive features firsthand, as part of the recent Run Barbados & Wellness FAM, sponsored by Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) and Travelweek.

The Wyndham Grand Barbados is the largest resort on the island. Located steps from the beach and nestled next to the iconic 19th-century Sam Lord’s Castle, steeped in pirate legend, the resort boasts a wide variety of luxurious amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.

The resort has played host not just to the Run Barbados Marathon & Wellness FAM with BTMI and Travelweek, but also the 2025 Air Canada Race. The hotel also recently accommodated the King of Jordan and his entourage.

Travelweek caught up with Petra Roach, Director of Sales & Marketing for the resort, who sees great potential in the Canadian market, especially given the new flight options available. Roach is well-known in the Canadian travel industry thanks to her time with Caribbean tourism boards, including BTMI.

“We’re investing in the Canadian market because we know travellers are looking for safety, great value, and plenty to do,” Roach told Travelweek during last month’s stay at Wyndham Grand Barbados.

Indeed, the hotel offers a wide range of activities to suit all interests. Guests can indulge in rum-based cocktails from around the world at the Burnt Cask Rhum Bar, enjoy live upbeat music at Lucy’s Lounge, or grab a yoga mat for an early morning class.

The Wyndham Grand Barbados is the largest resort on the island

OVERSIZED ROOMS & SUITES

This expansive property features 422 luxurious oversized rooms and suites, spread across five buildings. Each accommodation boasts a modern, sustainable design, with scenic views and expansive balconies that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living.

The property features 422 oversized rooms and suites, spread across five buildings

Guests are spoiled for choice with six inviting pools, including an adults-only pool and a spa pool. For those who enjoy staying active, the resort offers tennis and pickleball courts.

The state-of-the-art spa and well-equipped fitness centre provide a calming oasis with a variety of treatments and classes, making health and wellness a key focus of the resort.

“We’re leaning into the wellness proposition,” says Roach. “We have an excellent gym, a personal trainer, and are closely collaborating with our culinary team to enhance our nutritional offerings.”

Additionally, travel advisors should note that the resort can accommodate both small and large groups, offering boardroom and convention facilities.

DINING EXPERIENCES

The Wyndham currently offers several dining options for guests. The Mediterranean Market is a casual buffet-style eatery that features a daily salad bar, vegan options, and local Bajan dishes.

Another casual option is Sam Lord’s Grill by the pool. According to Roach, it serves “the best burger ever,” along with delicious fresh fish tacos.

Stunning lobby views at Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle Resort

For a more formal dining experience, guests can visit Castleview, the property’s signature steakhouse and seafood restaurant, where reservations are required. Here, you can enjoy à la carte prime cuts of meat, Wagyu beef, lobster, and prawns, all prepared in a fully open kitchen.

The evening views of the castle, illuminated in various colours, are truly spectacular.

Roach also shared exciting news about the upcoming opening of two new restaurants and a café, expected to launch in late March, expanding the dining options.

One of the new restaurants will be a Japanese establishment that does not require reservations. During the day, it will serve a simple yet high-quality grab-and-go affair featuring sushi, sashimi, and poke bowls. In the evening, it will offer a more elevated and authentic dining experience.

Additionally, guests can look forward to a modern Indian restaurant called ‘Tattva,’ designed with a royal blue theme, the national colour of India. This restaurant will be managed by the hotel’s passionate young Indian chef. Tattva will offer a thali buffet for lunch, designed to showcase a full spectrum of Indian flavours.

For dinner, guests can expect an array of plated options featuring creative twists, all while maintaining the authenticity of the cuisine.

Roach emphasizes that the success of these initiatives is “really driven by the passion of the people behind them, which will make all the difference.”

Guests can indulge in rum-based cocktails from around the world at the Burnt Cask Rhum Bar

AUTHENTICITY & SUSTAINABILITY

To provide the authenticity travellers now seek in a destination, Wyndham is collaborating closely with the local community and artists to create murals and unique pieces of art that guests can take home.

“We really want visitors to get into the underbelly of life here, not only in Barbados, but specifically in this parish,” says Roach.

Given the size of the property, Wyndham is also mindful of its environmental impact, which is another key focus.

Guests are spoiled for choice with six pools, including an adults-only pool and a spa pool

Roach shared some of their current initiatives, including the use of low-flush toilets, reducing electricity consumption, growing herb gardens, and sourcing food from local farmers.

“We’re striving to do a little bit more every day, ” Roach remarked, adding with a smile, “After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day, but we’re making progress.”

Lead image caption: Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle Resort played host to the recent Run Barbados & Wellness FAM, sponsored by Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) and Travelweek