A Weekend of Cocktail Culture in Bermuda

Sip your way through iconic Bermudian concoctions, each with its own story and blend of exotic flavours. From the classic Black and Coke and squally mix of the Dark ‘n Stormy®, to the tropical infusions of the Rum Swizzle and the enchanting YellowBird, you'll not only taste these delightful beverages but also uncover their origins and ingredients. 
 
Thanks to the island’s expert bartenders, you can delve into the secrets of these cherished drinks while soaking up Bermuda's vibrant cocktail bar scene. This long weekend adventure pairs perfectly with Bermuda's classic island experiences, promising a truly refreshing and spirited weekend getaway!

WHERE TO STAY

Book a stay at the iconic Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, a newly refurbished 400-room resort with stunning views of Hamilton Harbour. From here, it’s a five-minute walk to the vibrant downtown of Bermuda’s capital: the City of Hamilton. 
 
At the hotel, you can indulge in waterfront dining, unwind in the infinity pool, or get a lavish spa treatment at Exhale Spa. A resort shuttle whisks you away to a private crescent of pristine beach along Bermuda’s famous South Shore, complete with ocean hammocks for ultimate relaxation. 

The Hamilton Princess proudly partners with ecoSPIRITS, providing guests with sustainable cocktail options that are marked with a blue icon. These drinks will not only delight your palate but also contribute to reducing glass waste, minimizing your carbon footprint, and supporting ocean waste removal.

Day 1

FRIDAY

Kick off the day with a scenic walk through the charming streets of Hamilton, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere, pastel-coloured buildings, and bustling harbour views.
 
As you ease into the afternoon, head to The Birdcage on Front Street for happy hour. Open seasonally from April to October/November, The Birdcage is a tribute to Bermudian cocktail culture and fresh, local flavours. Their signature Yellow Bird drink is a delightful concoction of tropical fruit and rum.

Next head to The Cloud, a captivating rooftop restaurant in the heart of Hamilton. Known for its breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bar bites, The Cloud is a great place to sip and savour some truly delicious drinks while enjoying picturesque views of the city.

For dinner, choose between Port O' Call and The Terrace on Front Street. Located on Front Street, Port O' Call specialises in fine cuisine set in an intimate, yet comfortable casual setting. The menu comprises of fresh-caught fish, Certified Angus steaks and homemade pastas, complemented by Bermuda-grown produce. Don't miss out on their daily local catch and award-winning wine list.

The Terrace on Front Street is a contemporary bar and restaurant with a balcony overlooking Front Street and Hamilton Harbour. The bar features an excellent cocktail list and the food menu a wide variety of delicious local fresh fish, vegan, and vegetarian options, as well as daily specials. There is a daily Happy Hour from 4pm - 7pm and be sure to ask about their bubble gun for a unique cocktail experience!

End your day with some music at Hog Penny or Front Yard. Hog Penny is an old-fashioned pub and one of the island's oldest. They’re known for their live music and delicious British and Bermudian food. Alternately, you can savour a delightful array of cocktails at The Front Yard, where the energy is elevated by a DJ set, creating the perfect atmosphere for dancing the night away under a starlit sky.

Day 2

SATURDAY

Saturday begins with an ascent to the historic Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, built in 1846. Climb the 185-step spiral staircase of this 117-foot, cast-iron lighthouse and marvel at the bird’s-eye-view of this island archipelago. You’ll see some of the best views of the South Shore and Little Sound, as well as panoramic vistas of Hamilton and the Royal Naval Dockyard.

Next, indulge in a leisurely beach day at the exclusive Princess Beach Club of the Hamilton Princess. Relax on a comfortable lounger amidst the pink sands and turquoise waters of this private cove as you quench your thirst with selections from a curated cocktail menu. Try a Bermudian favourite like the Rum Swizzle and Dark ‘n Stormy®, or opt for a Passion Mojito or Tropical White Sangria.

As evening approaches, embark on a mini cruise with ÜberVida. Departing from Front Street in Hamilton, this 90-minute sunset cruise offers breathtaking views of Bermuda’s coastline where you can savour a drink with views of the island’s picturesque beauty.
 
Wrap your day with dinner and drinks at Intrepid at Hamilton Princess. This upscale steak and seafood restaurant and raw bar offers a refined dining experience with panoramic harbour views. Menu highlights include Lump Crab Cake with Cajun Remoulade or the Intrepid Maki Roll. Complement your meal with a cocktail from their new menu, featuring delights like the Princess 75 or the signature Intrepid Martini, served ‘Shaken Not Stirred’. Don’t miss their signature cocktail, the refreshing loquat daiquiri.

Day 3

SUNDAY

Start your final day with the natural wonders of Crystal Cave and Fantasy Cave, a captivating underground realm showcasing Bermuda's geological splendour. Begin in a lush garden lined with royal palms, then descend into a world of awe-inspiring formations and clear pools that connect to the ocean. Choose between Crystal Cave, with its floating pontoons over a crystal-clear underground lake, and Fantasy Cave, a jewel box of calcite mineral formations resembling frozen waterfalls. Both caves offer high-tech lighting systems and guided tours with knowledgeable guides to enhance the experience.

Next, visit the Swizzle Inn in Bailey’s Bay, the birthplace of Bermuda's national drink – the Rum Swizzle. Established in 1932 in a 17th-century roadhouse, this historic pub offers a taste of the original frothy mix of Gosling’s rum and fresh fruit juices. Pair your drink with a hearty meal like a classic burgers, fish sandwiches, or shepherd's pie. Don't forget to visit the Swagger Out gift shop for some unique Swizzle memorabilia.

As you head to the airport, you can reflect on the extraordinary experiences and flavours that made your trip unforgettable. And as you board your flight, raise a final toast (and one last Swizzle!) to the spirit of Bermuda – until you return for another round of island adventures.