Essential Hotel Collection

Antigua (meaning ‘ancient’ in Spanish) was named by Christopher Columbus after an icon in Seville Cathedral, Santa Maria de la Antigua. It was known as the ‘gateway to the Caribbean’ due to its position in the Leeward Islands. It offered control over the major sailing routes to and from the region’s rich island colonies. Most of the island’s historical sites are now a reminder of the colonial efforts to ensure its safety and invasion back in the late 16^thcentury.

Having become one of the most prosperous islands supporting a large-scale sugar cultivation that already flourished in the Caribbean, Antigua is now left with beautiful remains of over one hundred 18^th century sugar mills which are now used as homes, rustic bars, restaurants and shops.

The island is famous for its stunning white sandy beaches - 365 of them to be exact (one for every day of the year). It is well known for its passion with cricket. The sport is played any place and at any time, though matches tend to be held on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays between January through to July - something certainly worth experiencing whilst on the island.

As well as a whole array of activities available to do, the coasts of Antigua are ideal for yacht cruising and racing, with constant trade winds, and many harbours for exploration.

Our ideal choice of hotel in Antigua is the fully inclusive world-class resort Curtain Bluff.