The Good Family Hotel Guide: Almond Beach Village, Barbados

Mood

Mood

A scattering of low-rise blocks among coconut and casuarina trees, landscaped gardens and seven swimming pools - the last resort northwards on the island's jet-setty west coast.

Accommodation

The smartest rooms are at the north end, peacefully remote from the family section.

Refuelling

The family restaurant stays open all day. Alternatively, you can have room-service meals on your balcony, or choose from a variety of restaurants serving seafood, Italian and Caribbean cuisine. The resort has reciprocal arrangements with other restaurants on the island.

Beach

Although the likes of Sandy Lane and Cobblers Cove get the best of the west coast's half-moon bays and powdery sand, Almond Beach has one small, fine-sanded spot where the water sports are based.

Activities

Qualified child minders run a "kids' club" where the emphasis is on broadening the "Caribbean experience" with lessons in Bajan culture, steel-pan music, calypso and reggae. There are also water sports, tennis, a nine-hole golf course, and an adventure playground.

Fellow guests

Plenty of British and American families, and lesser numbers of Italians and Germans.

Out and about

As part of the "all-inclusive" package, there are free shuttle buses to Bridgetown, the capital, excursions to other parts of the island, and packed picnics for exploring on your own.

Sample prices

Sovereign (0161-742 2224) offers a week's stay for £3,173 for a family of four in November, rising to £4,387 in February. Prices include flights on BWIA, transfers, accommodation, all food and drink, sports and excursions.

Address

Almond Beach Village, St Peter, Barbados, Windward Islands (00 1 246 422 4900). In the UK, book with any tour operator featuring Barbados.