The Crane Resort in Barbados is rightly known for its casual luxury and, in particular, amazing cliff-top views of one of the world’s top-rated beaches. But what is a great resort without a great bar?

Located in the sprawling resort’s central “village,” Bar 1887 is the signature cocktail bar of The Crane, featuring wraparound verandahs, ceiling fans and furniture suited to endlessly lounging in paradise with drink in hand.

It is also invariably the first stop for most arriving guests and subsequently a ritual meeting or lingering place before or after dinner in the evening, or during breaks from the resort’s multiple pools or Crane Beach 15 m. below.

While a variety of libations are on available, mixologists in the venue hail the namesake Crane Rum punch, an exquisite concoction comprised of rum, orange and lime juices, sugar, grenadine syrup and bitters.

There are also a dozen other signature drinks, most based on the marvellous local Mount Gay rum, plus a full range of traditional cocktails, wines, beers, and spirits.

Light tapas-style snacks are served in the evenings, and live Jazz entertainment is performed nightly.

Of course, any bar in the Caribbean is merely garnish to the resort itself – and The Crane doesn’t disappoint. Currently owned by Canadian Paul Doyle, the property has since its founding in 1887 (hence the name of the bar) been the oldest continuously operated hotel in the Caribbean.

Set on 16 hectares on the southeast coast, about 20 minutes from the airport, the 284-room resort blends old world charm with modern amenities, and features award-winning restaurants, spa, tennis courts, plus multiple swimming pools, including a classical cliff-top pool framed by Doric columns, and a .6-hectacre water complex with multi-level pools and cascading waterfall.

And, of course, those views – drink in hand, of course – to the pink sand and crashing surf on the famous beach below.

With glass purposefully in hand, we at Travel Industry Today continue our series on some of the planet’s best bars, patios and rooftop venues. For more articles in the series, click here:

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