Castle Luxe on the Caribbean Coast: Inside Wyndham Grand Barbados, Sam Lord’s Castle

Barbados is no stranger to captivating stories—but few are as alluring as that of Sam Lord, the 19th-century pirate whose deceptive lanterns once lured ships to their demise. Today, those very lanterns glow at the entrance of Wyndham Grand Barbados, Sam Lord’s Castle, casting a more welcoming light on what is now one of the island’s most exciting new luxury escapes.

Just 15 minutes from the Grantley Adams International Airport—and easily accessible via direct flights from Miami, New York City, Boston, and Atlanta—the 422-room oceanfront resort is designed with the discerning traveler in mind. Equal parts sanctuary and launchpad, Wyndham Grand Barbados is a striking addition to the southeastern coast, combining storied heritage with all-inclusive ease, contemporary Caribbean design, and an elevated service philosophy.

At first glance, the setting is pure paradise: swaying palms, panoramic sea views, and a lineup of ocean-view pools. But what sets Wyndham Grand Barbados apart is its commitment to storytelling—woven through architecture, service, and experience.

The resort is built beside the original Sam Lord’s Castle ruins, preserving the site’s historic identity while embracing its next chapter. This isn’t just beachfront luxury—it’s a narrative-driven destination where guests are invited to live the legend while indulging in modern-day pleasures.

At the Island Essence Spa, the experience is designed for true restoration. Signature treatments and massage rituals are delivered in an atmosphere of understated elegance, blending local botanicals with global techniques. It’s the type of wellness destination where silence speaks volumes and every detail feels intentional.

And for those staying in suites, the resort’s Elite Butler Program adds a refined layer of personalization. Services range from private resort orientations and unpacking to spa coordination, dinner reservations, and departure planning—each moment orchestrated with a thoughtful, anticipatory approach.

This summer, the resort’s culinary scene is expanding—with new dining experiences debuting to complement its already diverse, all-inclusive menu.

But the most memorable meals may come courtesy of The Oistins Experience, a weekly cultural celebration hosted on-property. Expect fire breathers, stilt walkers, artisan vendors, and authentic Bajan dishes prepared with flair. Guests can also take advantage of a complimentary shuttle to the iconic Oistins Fish Fry every Friday for an off-property immersion into local flavor and nightlife.

Barbados offers more than beautiful beaches. Through the resort’s Complimentary Island Excursions, guests can explore the island’s cultural, historic, and ecological treasures without lifting a finger.

Highlights include:

• Carlisle Bay: Famous for its shipwreck diving and turquoise waters

• Historic Bridgetown: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with 17th-century architecture and vibrant markets

• Garrison Savannah: Where horse racing, colonial history, and local culture intersect

• Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park: A subterranean wonder of stalactites, waterfalls, and tram tours

• Rascals Waterpark: A family-friendly option packed with slides and splash zones

With its prime location and luxe comforts, the resort is also the perfect home base for Barbados’ renowned annual festivals:

• Crop Over (July 5 – August 5): A carnival-like celebration of music, dance, and masquerade

• Dive Fest Barbados (July 2 – 7): A week of marine conservation, diving, and underwater exploration

• Barbados Food & Rum Festival (November): A gourmet showcase of Bajan flavors and international chefs

• Run Barbados (December): A scenic, sea-breezed weekend of races and wellness