Welchman Hall Gully is a thickly wooded ravine with a walking track and nearly 200 species of lush tropical plants. Gullies like this were virtually the only places planters were unable to cultivate, and thus represent an important remnant of the forest that covered Barbados before the arrival of English settlers.
northeast of Bridgetown
tel (info) 246438 6671
Modes of transport: Sturdges minibus from the Cheapside station in Bridgetown
Barbados Wildlife Reserve is a walk-through zoo opposite Farley Hill, with short paths that meander through a mahogany forest of scurrying green monkeys, sluggish red-footed turtles and a caiman pond. Other creatures that may be spotted include brocket deer, iguanas and agoutis. The monkeys are most lively during their afternoon feed.
There's also a small aviary with macaws and cockatoos, as well as some caged parrots, and uncaged peacocks and pelicans. To top it off, there's an orchid display and an iguana sanctuary.
opposite Farley Hill National Pk
tel (info) 246422 8826
Modes of transport: from either Speightstown or Bathsheba
Tyrol Cot is a traditional Bajan village built on the former home of Sir Grantley Adams, first premier of Barbados. This National Trust-listed site includes examples of chattel houses, a unique Barbadian style of portable dwelling dating from the brutal slavery era. There are also local artists working and selling their crafts and a working blacksmith.
The stables have been converted into a restaurant, and sandwiches are available in a replica rum shop.
tel (info) 246424 2074