An Adventure Awaits

You don't just visit Bermuda. You experience it.
It is an island nation that is utterly unique in both its natural setting and the culture of the people who call it home. Pastel homes with white roofs peek out from the lush, green foliage and add even more colour to a country known for the blues of its ocean and its pink-sand beaches

Bermudians love to share and preserve the islands of which they are so proud. They know what they have is rare and want visitors to appreciate it as much as they do.

Its rich colonial legacy means there are 90 different British-built forts to explore and quaint historical towns and churches to discover. But what will bombard your senses is the beauty of the natural setting. Bermuda is a pearl-like chain of islands peeking out from what is actually the rim of an extinct volcano. It literally juts out from the floor of the Atlantic.

The result is magical. The indescribable blue of the deepest waters gives way to the azure of the surf that laps against the beaches in the countless coves. As home to some of the northernmost coral reefs and mangroves in the Atlantic, Bermuda offers amazing snorkelling and diving experiences.

And speaking of what lies beneath, Bermuda's volcanic origins have created a series of spectacular limestone caves below its surface.

"Bermuda's a breathtaking setting," says Niamah Denbrook of the Department of Tourism. "We have heavenly beaches, turquoise waters, exciting nightlife but a sophisticated ambience. It seduces your senses."

Enjoy the seduction as we experience a place where, around every bend in its winding roads, there is something new to surprise and delight.

Experiencing and Understanding

To truly experience and appreciate the nature and history before you, Bermuda has several offerings that allow you to get an up-close perspective of the unique surroundings. These museums, gardens and centres are considered must-sees.

First on the list is the Bermuda Aquarium Museum & Zoo, or BAMZ. Occupying seven acres in Flatts Village right on Harrington Sound, it's Bermuda's most popular tourist attraction. BAMZ got its beginnings in 1926, as the Bermudian government began realising how important it was to educate its growing tourist population about its distinctive environment.

BAMZ has a well-earned reputation for allowing you to get up-close and personal with its animals. The massive 140,000-gallon North Rock Exhibit replicates the most northerly coral reef basin in the Atlantic and lets you see eye-to-eye with the fish as they swim by. There are also no wires between you and more than 300 species of animals and birds as you stroll through the winding paths of the zoo enclosure.

"Everything we do is to try and inspire people so they understand the natural beauty of our resources," says curator Dr. Ian Walker. "Our long-term goal is to educate children, adults and visitors about our ecology."

Open year-round (with the exception of Christmas Day) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last entry is at 4 p.m.). (293-2727, www.bamz.org)

Once the Aquarium has whetted your appetite for knowledge of oceans, turn your attention to the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) located on the water to the east of downtown Hamilton in Pembroke Parish. You'll be astounded by its sophisticated multimedia demonstrations and ability to teach you about creatures you may not have known existed.

A seven-minute simulated submarine dive takes you to depths you never thought possible. It incorporates actual footage from sea level down to 12,000 feet so you can see the creatures along your journey.

"The more information visitors have about the ocean environment, the more we are able to protect it," says Director Wendy Tucker of the centre's commitment to conservation. "There are so many people now on earth. We need to be very conscious about what we're doing to our environment."

Tucker's father is famed local undersea archaeologist Teddy Tucker, and it is evident that BUEI is an incredible resource for anyone interested in conservation. It is open weekdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends. (292-7219, www.buei.org)

Preserving aquatic habitats is also at the heart of Dolphin Quest Bermuda, which offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance for visitors to interact with dolphins in their natural habitat. Here, you can touch, feed and swim with the dolphins. Located at the Bermuda Maritime Museum at the Royal Naval Dockyard in Sandys Parish. Open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. (234-4464, www.dolphinquest.org)

The Royal Naval Dockyard is the former headquarters of the British Navy in Bermuda and now houses shops and cafés. While there, don't forget to visit the Bermuda Maritime Museum, which is found within the walls of Bermuda's largest fort — The Keep. The museum is home to the country's most extensive collection of artefacts. From 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. visitors can have almost full reign throughout the six-acre fortress.

If you really enjoy history, venture over to Smith Parish and take the time to go through the Verdmont Museum, located not far from BAMZ. The 18th-century Georgian-style mansion is the flagship of the Bermuda National Trust. There is a splendid collection of cedar and mahogany antiques inside, but don't forget to explore the gardens, which have panoramic views of the island. Verdmont is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

The best gardens by far are the Botanical Gardens in Paget's Parish. Species range from lush, subtropical foliage and ferns to cacti. Established in 1898, they are free to anyone who wants to roam the grounds from dawn to dusk. The large white house at its centre is the official residence of Bermuda's premier. It is open for tours Tuesday and Friday midday, unless there is an official function.

The Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art, which recently opened its new home at the Botanical Gardens, is a treat for arts lovers. The 16,000-square-foot facility has three gallery spaces, in which it features exhibitions by local artists and Masterworks' ongoing artists-in-residence programme. (236-2950, www.bermudamasterworks.com)

On Thursday evenings from April to October, watch Bermuda's rich culture come to life on Court Street at the Uptown Market Culture Fest. Gather the entire family and enjoy live street entertainment, performers, ethnic dishes and unique arts and crafts in North Hamilton. Also enjoy other unique street festivals like Destination Dockyard on Mondays; Market Nights on Tuesdays in St. George's; and Harbour Nights on Wednesdays in Front Street, Hamilton.

Explore on Foot

Even with its limited landmass, Bermuda has taken care to set aside several preserves to allow nature to stay untouched. The incredible terrain offers spectacular hiking opportunities.

Starting in the east, you'll find probably one of the best-known parks, Spittal Pond Preserve in Smith's Parish. Spittal has 34 acres of trails and footpaths through wetlands and along the South Shore. It is also the location of the oldest evidence of humans on the island. If you make your way along the coastal path, you'll find Spanish Rock and the Initials "RP" and "1543" carved in it.

Blue Hole Park in the Walsingham Reserve of Hamilton Parish (not to be confused with the town of Hamilton) is known for its palm groves and a veritable carpet of elephant ears. Explore Tom Moore's Jungle, which truly is a jungle in the midst of paradise. Or discover the many caves and even take a dip in one.

To see Bermuda's natural setting as the original settlers experienced, make a visit to Paget Marsh. The 25-acre preserve is largely a palmetto and cedar forest with distinctive mangroves. An elevated, wooden boardwalk forms a path to take you past the pond and its peat marsh. It also gives you an opportunity to see a wide array of wildlife and birds.

Orchid lovers should take time to explore Firefly Nature and Freer Cox Memorial Reserves in Devonshire Parish. The 10-acre preserve is also home to many endangered local species of fauna.

If hiking through history is more your interest, check out the four-mile trail from Dockyard to Somerset. The path takes you across the Gilbert Nature reserve and past the Royal Naval Cemetery, which dates back to the 19th century. The hike allows ample opportunities to take dips in the ocean along the way and offers fabulous views of the Great Sound.

Another popular hiking choice is the "Old Rattle and Shake" or the Bermuda Railway Trail. Winding throughout the island, it occupies the track lands of the short-lived Bermuda Railway. The train operated from 1931 to 1948 (the train was stripped by military troops during World War II because of the parts shortage), when cars were finally allowed on the island. It became a hiking and bridle path in 1984, and it quickly proved a popular way for visitors to explore at their own pace. You can pick up a copy of the Bermuda Railway Trailway Guide at any visitors information centre or at the Bermuda Department of Tourism to determine which section of the scenic trail best suits your desires.

For those who want to hike with the locals, fall in with the Walking Club of Bermuda. Six- or seven-mile jaunts take place each Sunday morning at 7 a.m. at a different location. The schedule is at www.walk.free.bm, and visitors are welcome.

Explore the Winged Wonders

You don't have to be a bonafide birdwatcher to appreciate Bermuda's celebrated status as a place to see birds of just about any species. By being just about the only landmass in the centre of the Atlantic Ocean, it is a convenient stopping off place for migratory birds that hail from the tropics to the arctic.

Local favourites like the black-bellied plover can delight — but there is always the chance of a real rarity, like a swallow-tailed kite. In fact, in autumn 2007, a snowy owl was spotted. Feathered tourists instinctively know that the island's numerous nature preserves provide them safe haven.

Among the favourite places to pull out your binoculars is Spittal Pond. The largest bird sanctuary on the island, its eight-acre pond and surrounding woodlands provide a perfect habitat for both resident and migratory birds. The great blue heron is just one of the rare birds that is actually a regular sighting here. Other birds include coots, ducks, egrets and warblers.

Paget's Marsh is also a favourite for birders, as are Warwick Pond and Seymour's Pond. But when it comes to the annual spring seabird migration, bird lovers will themselves flock to Astwood Cove and park in Warwick Parish to witness the event. Thousands of pelagic birds (those species that spend most of the year out on the open ocean) make their movement through the region in May and early June.

Bermuda's Audubon Society was created in 1954 and keeps careful track of all sightings as well as planning outings. Their annual Bird Count each December lists as many as 200 species, depending on migration patterns.

Explore What Lies Beneath

The limestone that capped off Bermuda's volcanic origins has left the atoll permeated with caves and caverns. Each of the 150 caves found throughout the country has its own impressive displays of stalactite and stalagmite formations. Unfortunately, many are accessible only through underwater exploration and are not available to the general public.

That said, the best place to explore while getting a real explanation of the cave phenomenon are Crystal Caves and Fantasy Caves in Hamilton Parish's Baileys Bay. The only show caves in Bermuda, Crystal Caves was first opened to the public in 1908 and is one of the largest cave systems on the island.

"The delicacy of the formations and the quantity of formations make them world-renowned," says Dave Summers, president of Crystal Caves and president of the International Show Caves Association.

The startling white crystal formations are viewed from a floating walkway above the lakes while in Fantasy Cave; the foremost decorations are huge clusters of stalagtites, which give the appearance of orange chandeliers. Tours of each cave will take only a half-hour, or one hour for both. They are open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with the exception of New Year's Day, Good Friday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Other caves accessible to the public are Prospero's Cave and Cathedral Cave beneath Hamilton Parish's Grotto Bay Beach Resort. The resort organises regular "cave crawls" for interested guests, and Prospero's beautiful underground lake is alone worth the visit.

For the best seawater-filled caves, explore the grottos of Walsingham Nature Reserve off Harrington Sound Road. The reserve is open from dawn to dusk and is a great place to get back to nature in general.

Another way to explore Bermuda's magnificent sea life is with Hartley's Under Sea Adventures, a fun activity for the entire family. Shallow water helmet diving is the safest undersea adventure anyone can do and yet everyone — even certified divers — finds exciting. The adventure takes place in 8 to 10 feet of water, where you can admire a variety of sea life in a personalised tour involving both tamed and trained fish. (234-3535, www.hartleybermuda.com)

Explore Your Ability to Preserve

It doesn't take much to recognise what Bermudians have known for centuries; what they have is special. As you explore the museums, experience nature reserves and comb the beaches, you will see ongoing efforts to make sure human impact on and offshore is minimal.

The best places to see the northernmost mangrove forests in the world are at Mangrove Lake (between Smith and Hamilton Parishes), Spittal Pond, Walsingham Pond, Paget Marsh and Lover's Lake in St. George's Parish. Mangroves are vital because they prevent erosion while providing breeding areas for fish. There are three species of these coastal trees: the red, black and buttonwood mangroves.

Bermuda's Turtle Project, sponsored by BAMZ and the Caribbean Conservation Corporation, is world-renowned. Having lost its own nesting green sea turtle population, the country is at the forefront of educating others as to how to prevent it from happening to them. You'll see many turtles in the waters of Bermuda, but they head back to where they were hatched to lay their own eggs.

"Once you lose a standing nesting population in your area, it's hard to get it back," points out BAMZ's Dr. Walker. He remains optimistic about their programme to try and reintroduce nesting turtles by 2017. Volunteering is generally not for the average tourist because of its intensity and time commitment. However, there are several ongoing conservation initiatives taking place in Bermuda, some of which you can help just by being aware of your surroundings or by reporting sightings. The Lionfish Project specifically has you report sightings of lionfish. The Seahorse Project targets preserving the delicate habitats of the species.

Above ground, do your part by protecting and reporting sightings of skinks (rock lizards) and longtails (white-tailed tropicbirds). You can formally join REEF (Reef Environmental Education Foundation), which trains you to keep track of fish you see in Bermudian waters.

Still, what you will find is that to conserve Bermuda, you need only learn to love it. And that occurs when you simply experience what Bermuda has to offer.

As you Experience Bermuda, don't miss these attractions:

Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo
40 North Shore Road, Flatts
Hamilton Parish
Tel: 441-293-2727
E-mail: marketing.bzs@gov.bm
Website: www.bamz.org

The Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo (BAMZ) is one of Bermuda's premier visitor attractions, dedicated to inspiring appreciation and care of island environments. A treasure trove of native fishes, exotic reptiles and birds, including pink flamingos, the facility offers education and entertainment in a beautiful setting. The North Rock Exhibit is a 140,000-gallon replica of a living local coral reef. A path guides visitors through the Caribbean Exhibit, a vast flight cage where animals roam at arm's length. The Australasia Exhibit includes lemurs, wallabies and tree kangaroos. Children love the touch pool in the Local Tails Exhibit, and the Discovery Cove is an interactive haven for children of all ages. Enjoy the spectacular view of Harrington Sound from the Coastal Walkway. Learn about Bermuda's geology and habitats in the Natural History Museum. Open daily except on Christmas Day, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (last admission: 4 p.m.). Adults: $10; children ages 5-12: $5.

Bermuda Department of Tourism
Global House
43 Church St., Hamilton
Tel: 441-292-0023
Website: www.bermudatourism.com

Bermuda is a chic island escape where rich history, diverse culture and exceptional beauty meet. Visitors "feel the love'' with Bermuda's 21 miles of pink-sand beaches, friendly people and sophisticated ambience. The island paradise is surrounded by a 200-square-mile coral reef, showing a myriad of vibrant, tropical fish. On island, visitors enjoy world-class dining, luxurious spas and boutique shopping. With more golf courses per square mile than any other island, dramatic ocean views and challenging fairways, Bermuda is a golfer's paradise. Enjoy and feel the love in Bermuda!

Culture Fest
Tel: 441-799-2077

Bermuda is another world, with spectacular Uptown Market sector experiences in Court Street and its surroundings. A day's walk offers your fancy of scenery and landscape from Fort Hamilton to Victoria Park. Streets abound with icons of local social history and regional diversity, while churches, great houses and civic buildings express classical local architecture. Eat a cavalcade of authentic ethnic foods from exotic to moderate. No boring experiences here. North Hamilton holds "the happening zone."

On Thursday nights during Culture Fest (April to October), stroll traffic-free streets in this vibrant and historic enclave. Savour spicy food and cool jazz, jump and prance with Bermuda's unique Gombeys, or just "chill" at a sidewalk café. Buy local and regional produce in street markets for a special dish. Wear a daring and darling outfit from any of several small and chic boutiques, or buy an unusual "take home gift."

Dolphin Quest Bermuda
Bermuda Maritime Museum
Royal Naval Dockyard
Tel: 441-234-4464
Fax: 441-234-4992
E-mail: dqbermuda@dolphinquest.org
Website: www.dolphinquest.org

Dolphin Quest Bermuda takes you on a journey into the intriguing world of the dolphin through face-to-face encounters both in-water and dockside. Discover an atmosphere of adventure mixed with education and a wide range of encounters for adults, children, families and groups. Dolphin Quest is open daily, all year-round from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Gombey's Restaurant & Bar
Clearwater Beach
Tel: 441-293-5092

Have a great experience in a spacious, open environment at one of Bermuda's largest beaches and best establishments — Clearwater Beach and Gombey's Restaurant & Bar. Gombey's has a variety of island foods, cocktails and music; a warm, cordial and friendly staff; and rents snorkel equipment, pedal boats, bikes, umbrellas and chairs. Play a game of volleyball, enjoy the nearby nature reserve walk and visit another beach just yards away — Turtle Beach.

Seven to 10 minutes away from the shipping ports and the Town of St. George, and a short drive by bus, minivan or taxi. Open daily seven days a week from 10 a.m. until late. Catering available to large and small parties for special celebrations.

Snorkel Park
Royal Naval Dockyard
Tel: 441-234-6989

Come and discover all of the exciting features of the Snorkel Park. Just minutes away from the bus and ferry stops, visitors will gasp in surprise as they emerge through a limestone tunnel onto a tropical beach setting, complete with an array of modern beach equipment and amenities.

Whether you're looking to just kick back and relax, or have some fun, the Snorkel Park is the place not to be missed. From snorkel gear, paddleboats and kayaks to inflatable toys and water slides for the kids, we have something for everyone. Our more adventurous visitors can try the fun new underwater scooters, take a Snuba tour or hop aboard our banana boat for a wet and wild ride over open water.

Beneath the waves, you can explore the wonders of our natural coral reef, showcasing beautiful tropical fish and a sunken sloop, appropriately named Seahorse. Back on shore, come join us at the Hammerheads Bar, Bermuda's newest hot spot for day and night enjoyment. Sample our local rum potions as you gaze over the turquoise seas. Feeling hungry? Just pop on downstairs to the grill for a variety of tasty dishes and snacks.

Open daily from 9 a.m. Admission is free and our friendly staff will do their best to make your visit with us a memorable one. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Tobacco Bay Concession
St. George's
Tel: 441-297-2756

Tobacco Bay is a beautiful, sheltered, secluded beach — a favourite with visitors and locals alike and especially popular with families. If you are looking for the perfect tan, a refreshing swim or a snorkelling adventure around the rocks, Tobacco Bay is the place to visit. The clear, shallow water ensures safety for kids. Tobacco Bay's facilities include a deck dining area (which specialises in local cuisine), a beer and wine bar, a gift shop and braiding services. Tobacco Bay also rents snorkel gear, umbrellas and loungers to make your day comfortable and fun. Tobacco Bay is the family fun place in St. George's!y

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