Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
That's why many prefer inland courts, such as those at this government-owned
stadium. It offers three clay and five shock-absorbing Plexicushion courts (three
illuminated for night play). The facility, which is north of the City of Hamilton,
requires players to wear proper tennis attire. A pro shop, a ball machine, and a pro
offering private lessons are on-site. See p. 139.
THE
best
DAY HIKES
W
The Bermuda Railway Trail
(Sandys Parish): Stretching for about 34km (21
miles), this unique trail was created along the course of the old Bermuda Railway,
which served the island from 1931 to 1948 (automobiles weren't allowed on the
island until the late 1940s). Armed with a copy of the
Bermuda Railway Trail
Guide,
available at visitor centers, you can follow the route of the train known as
“Rattle and Shake.” Most of the trail still winds along a car-free route, and you can
travel as much of it as your stamina allows. See p. 57 and 138.
W
From the Royal Naval Dockyard to Somerset
(Sandys Parish): A 6.5km (4-mile)
walk leads from the dockyard, the former headquarters of the British navy on Ber-
muda, to Somerset Island. Along the way you'll cross a beautiful nature reserve;
explore an old cemetery; view the Royal Naval Hospital, where thousands of yel-
low-fever victims died in the 19th century; and be rewarded with a sweeping
panoramic view of Great Sound. Sandy beaches along the route are perfect for
pausing from your hike to stretch out on the sand or take a dip in the ocean. See
“The Best of Bermuda in 3 Days,” in chapter 3.
W
Spittal Pond Nature Reserve
(Smith's Parish): This 24-hectare (59-acre) sanctu-
ary is the island's largest nature reserve, home to both resident and migratory
waterfowl. You can spot some 25 species of waterfowl from November to May.
Scenic trails and footpaths cut through the property. Explore on your own or take
a guided hike offered by the Department of Agriculture. See p. 157.
THE
best
VIEWS
W
Warwick Long Bay:
This stretch of pristine pink sand is a dream beach of the
picture-postcard variety. It backs up to towering cliffs and hills studded with Span-
ish bayonet and oleander. A 6m-high (20-ft.) coral outcrop, rising some 60m (200
ft.) offshore and resembling a sculpted boulder, adds variety to the stunning beach-
scape. See p. 126.
W
Scaur Hill Fort Park:
From Somerset Bridge in Sandys Parish, head for this fort
atop the parish's highest hill. Walk the fort's ramparts, enjoying the vistas across
Great Sound to Spanish Point. You can also gaze north to the dockyard and take in
the fine views of Somerset Island. On a clear day, a look through the telescope
reveals St. David's Lighthouse, 23km (14 miles) away on the northeastern tip of
the island. After enjoying the fantastic views from the fort, you can stroll through
the fort's 9 hectares (22 acres) of beautiful gardens. See p. 143.
W
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse:
For an even better view than the one enjoyed by Queen
Elizabeth II when she visited but did not climb the lighthouse in 1953, hike the 185
spiral steps to the top. Built in 1846, it's the oldest cast-iron lighthouse in the world.
From the top, you can relish what islanders consider the single finest view in all of
Bermuda—a panorama of the island and its shorelines. In heavy winds, the tower
actually sways, so be sure to hang on to the railing when you're up there. See p. 150.
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