Hamilton Princess & Beach Club

This historic property, which dates to 1885, recently completed a $100 million renovation that modernized all 43 guestrooms and suites with contemporary Bermudian art and sleek dark-wood furniture and added a new infinity pool and jacuzzi. Marcus’, the new fine-dining restaurant from New York City-based chef Marcus Samuelsson, offers a menu that celebrates Caribbean ingredients and preparations. The resort, which will host the 35th America’s Cup in 2017, is also offering sailing classes to guests at Hamilton Harbour, the site of the race.

Dating to 1885, the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club overlooks the harbor in the city of Hamilton. Happily wearing the moniker “Grande Dame of Bermuda,” the hotel enjoys a celebrated history including being named after the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria, Princess Louise, and was also a favorite of Mark Twain (who often recited poetry on the veranda). An $100-million restoration, completed in mid-2016, adds new gloss to the rooms, which come in a wide array of styles and sizes.

As part of the renovation, the hotel has introduced an art program in the lobby and public spaces. Contemporary works are juxtaposed against the historic architectural details. Look for works by such artists as Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst, Nelson Mandela, and Ai Weiwei.

The Fairmont Hamilton Princess takes its name from Princess Louise, daughter of Queen Victoria, who called Bermuda “the land of eternal spring” after a winter visit in 1883. This inspired the developer to open a posh and stylish hotel in the tradition of those in Palm Beach and the Berkshires. The Hamilton Princess opened in 1885 as The Princess and quickly became known as the “Pink Palace.” Spacious rooms and suites with private balconies, marble bathrooms, and hardwood floors are fit for a king while soaker tubs, rainfall showers, and designer décor will thrill any princess. While popular with business and corporate travelers because of its city location, leisure travelers can enjoy a long weekend among the shops, restaurants, and nightlife of Front Street in downtown Hamilton. There is no beach in the city of Hamilton, but you can hop aboard the ferry to the Fairmont’s private beach in Southampton. Or, enjoy views of sailboats and luxury yachts in the harbour from the saltwater or freshwater pool. The Day Spa at the Fairmont Hamilton offers deep tissue massage, facials, specialty body treatments, and a full service salon. Koi ponds, a flattering coat of pink, and afternoon tea served with silver teapots and fine china are just an example of how the Fairmont has blended British hospitality and royal ancestry with island ambience to create the ultimate in pampering and supreme accommodations.

The 1609 Bar and Restaurant at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess was named to commemorate the year the Sea Venture wrecked on the island. The ordeal of the passengers is believed to be the inspiration of William Shakespeare’s Tempest, though if you start with cocktails at 1609, you should have smooth sailing on your evening out. “It’s the best place for a drink at the end of the day,” says Rebecca. “Get a Bermuda themed cocktail to help you unwind while watching the sunset. My favorite is the Island Storm, with Gosling’s rum and peach ginger beer. It’s the perfect drink to share—or not.”