One of the best loved resorts in the Caribbean, Carlisle Bay is the picture postcard of chic luxury. Situated on a fabulous beach and complemented by its backdrop of tropical rainforest-covered hills, this really is one of 'the' places to be seen in Antigua.
Accommodation ranges from refined Ocean Suites, ideal for couples, to the larger three-bedroom Carlisle Suites and family-friendly Beach Suites. Throughout this property's interiors you'll immaculate, spacious rooms that ooze style and simplicity.
Carlisle Bay is also a great place for a luxury family holiday, with entertainment for young and old alike. They love children of all ages here; in fact, they're treated like royalty with mini-bathrobes and gifts on arrival, as well as toy boxes on the beach. Kids love the Cool Kids Club here, leaving parents free to sip cocktails by the pool, laze on the beach or indulge in a spa treatment at the 17,000 square foot zen-like Blue Spa.
Serious foodies must try East, famed for its pan-Asian flavours, or head down to Indigo on the Beach for fresh seafood and light and healthy fare. Don't miss Sunday night's beach barbecue, for some fabulous food under a brilliant canopy of stars.
Another 'must see' here is the resort's very own mangrove lagoon, historically known as 'The Old Road Fish Pond'. It is home to local wildlife, including some critically endangered species.
Add to all of this the resort's amazing staff, for whom nothing is too much trouble, and you'll have a luxury Antigua holiday made in heaven at Carlisle Bay.
Carlisle Bay comprises 82 luxurious, incredibly spacious suites, all with breathtaking views of the Caribbean.
Some suites and areas are more tailored towards families or groups, others are ideal for couples. Floor-to-ceiling windows open out onto private terraces, and many rooms lead directly onto the beach. The design is contemporary, with a palette including whites and greys; the decor consists of dark woods, silk cushions and drapes, and black-and-white photographs of Antigua. All suites include a variety of luxury amenities, such as day beds on every balcony and terrace, LCD televisions with satellite channels and docking stations, wifi and Gaggia espresso machines.
Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to activities at Carlisle Bay. Surrounded by the vibrant Antiguan rainforest, the spa is ideal for some indulgent ‘me time’ while the kids have a blast at the excellent kids club. The swimming pool is gorgeous and tranquil, with a shallow end for children and an Italian restaurant, Ottimo!, nearby for some delectable poolside dining. The beach at Carlisle bay embodies the quintessential Caribbean holiday experience – it comprises a 500m-long secluded crescent of the most pristine white sand, with calm, turquoise waters sheltered by the surrounding coconut grove and rainforest.
Antigua’s reputation for excellent sailing is very much evident at the resort, which offers sailing lessons and Royal Yachting Association courses. If you’d like to explore the colourful underwater world of Antigua, embark on a PADI Open-Water four-day certification course or a s Discover Scuba one-day course. Children aren’t left out here either, as they can take part in the PADI Bubblemaker programme if they are aged 8 or over – a perfect introduction to the world of scuba diving. Complimentary snorkelling equipment is also available, and there is a range of interesting excursions included in the resort’s weekly activities programme.
For a truly memorable Antiguan adventure, why not explore the island by air. Helicopters are available for private charters daily, and could include a tour of the endless clear water reef systems or a flight around the volcano on Montserrat. Alternatively, venture into the reef systems and mangroves of Antigua via an authentic eco tour – think snorkelling, picnics and bathing in natural Jacuzzis!
Carlisle Bay offers a truly bespoke dining experience. There is a restaurant to suit every mood – families will love the relaxed atmosphere and flexible menus at Indigo at the Beach, while sophisticated East, one of Antigua’s finest Asian restaurants, is perfect for a romantic dinner for two.
In fact, a desire to cater for all tastes embodies the whole resort – families and couples can enjoy different ends of the beach, for example. To keep your little ones entertained, take them to the Caribbean Cool Kids Club, which offers exciting activities such as arts and crafts, lizard hunting and treasure hunts. For children aged 7 to 12, there’s the Crew Blue programme, running a variety of complimentary activities, including five-a-side football, zip-wiring and raft building. And the resort even keeps teenagers entertained at Crush, a club offering a chill-out room, which features a Wii U, table tennis and table football, as well as a variety of outdoor activities, such as shopping trips to St John’s, wake-boarding and barbecue parties.
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