Standford House is located at Polo Ridge in St James, opposite the Barbados Polo Club, on the glittering west coast of Barbados. Set majestically on a ridge, this special enclave sits on the renowned west coast, also known as the “platinum coast.” In the days when property owners wanted to be on a cool ridge, this was one of the most prestigious places to live in Barbados, known for its spectacular views.
Within just ten minutes drive, guests will be in the historic town of Holetown. The first English settlers landed at Holetown in 1627; today this bustling haven offers duty-free shopping centres, green spaces, a huge array of international cuisine and mellow reefs ideal for snorkelling.
Holetown also offers a slice of local Bajan life. The Chattel village is a melting pot of artisans, offering local crafts, art and jewellery. The Chattel houses provide a striking contrast to the colonial residences with their dazzling white coral facades and open verandas; the former are vividly coloured with fancy gables and gingerbread fretwork. The Chattel houses date back to plantation days; the small wooden shacks were designed to be movable, yet this didn’t limit their decorative charm; finished in candy pinks and pistachio greens with pretty shutters and sloping roofs.
The exclusive West Coast of Barbados is known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Despite this region being developed with high-end hotels and stately private residences to an international jet-set, its coast remains one of the most beautiful Barbados has to offer. With the recent development of extensive boardwalks, visitors can enjoy spectacular sunset strolls with the glittering sea as their companion.
The west coast offers everything from rum cocktails at the bar to Thai cuisine or local Bajan fare. A culinary experience here takes influences from African, Caribbean, West Indian and European gastronomy for something a little unique. Known for its rum tradition, started circa 370 years ago, the island is brimming with tours of the world’s oldest rum.
Water sports enthusiasts will be in their element, from sailing to snorkelling, jet-skiing to kite-surfing, Barbados has it all. One of the greatest delights of this island is boarding the sparkling waters for a catamaran cruise, along with a decadent buffet meal and drinks.