Battaleys Mews is on the west side of Barbados – the island’s Platinum Coast. There are miles of pristine beaches of fine white sand and the calm, clear waters are excellent for snorkelling and scuba diving. Mullins Beach is the most popular on this coast and only a short walk away but more tranquil alternatives are just as close.

Barbados is not all about the coast though. Inland, you’ll find a lush rolling countryside that’s great to explore on horseback, by bicycle or on foot. Golfers are spoiled for choice too with a great variety of world-class courses including Apes Hill, the Royal Westmoreland and Sandy Lane all conveniently close.

To get a feel of old Barbados, head for Speightstown. This historic town has a typically relaxed Caribbean atmosphere, a daily fish market and some great local restaurants, as well as shops, supermarket, pharmacy and medical centre. A short drive in the other direction is Holetown, another old settlement with a more contemporary style and home to the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, described by London’s Daily Telegraph as the ‘most stylish place to shop and dine in Barbados’ with designer stores, restaurants, theatres, cinemas and a lively nightlife.