Devonshire Parish Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and explore in Devonshire Parish, Bermuda. Read our detailed guide now.


Introduction to Devonshire Parish

Devonshire Parish is a quaint little gem located in the heart of Bermuda’s capital city, Hamilton. It is a popular spot for travelers who want to experience the authentic Bermudian culture and lifestyle. Devonshire Parish has a lot to offer – from scenic views and outdoor adventures to historical attractions and cultural experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about Devonshire Parish, including the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Devonshire Parish

Devonshire Parish is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Here, we will highlight some of the top-rated tourist attractions that are worth visiting in Devonshire Parish.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Devonshire Parish Post Office: An excellent example of colonial architecture and one of the oldest post offices in Bermuda.
  • Devonshire Parish Cemetery: A historic cemetery that dates back to the early 1700s, located in the heart of Devonshire Parish.
  • Fort Langton: A restored fort that offers beautiful views of the ocean.
  • Devonshire Marsh: A picturesque wetland that is home to many species of flora and fauna.

Natural Attractions of Devonshire Parish: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bermuda Botanical Gardens: A sprawling garden that spans over 36 acres. Here, you can enjoy the beauty of Bermuda’s floral diversity.
  • South Shore Park: A coastal nature reserve that offers scenic views of the Atlantic ocean.
  • Par-la-Ville Park: A serene park located in the heart of Hamilton that is perfect for picnics and relaxing strolls.
  • Devonshire Bay: A secluded beach that is perfect for swimming and lounging.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Devonshire Parish

Devonshire Parish is a great place for hikers and bikers. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • South Shore Park Trail: A scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Devonshire Bay to Collectors Hill: A moderately challenging trail that offers beautiful views of the island.
  • Fort Langton Trail: A short but enjoyable trail that offers panoramic views of the ocean.

Best Things to Do in Devonshire Parish: Activities and Tours

Devonshire Parish has a lot to offer when it comes to activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Devonshire Parish is home to some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving sites on the island.
  • Golfing: Bermuda is famous for its world-class golf courses, and Devonshire Parish has some of the best courses in the region.
  • Horseback Riding: You can explore the stunning landscapes of Bermuda by horseback with guided tours available.

Week-Long Itinerary for Devonshire Parish

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Devonshire Parish, here is a sample itinerary that you can follow:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Devonshire Parish Post Office and Devonshire Parish Cemetery
Day 2 Explore Bermuda Botanical Gardens and venture on South Shore Park Trail
Day 3 Go for a Sandy Spit Boat Tour or try paddleboarding
Day 4 Play golf at Mid Ocean Club
Day 5 Take a guided horseback ride through the Parish
Day 6 Visit Fort Langton and Devonshire Marsh
Day 7 Head to the beautiful Devonshire Bay for swimming and sunbathing.

Food and Drink Scene of Devonshire Parish

Bermuda is famous for its seafood, and Devonshire Parish has a lot to offer when it comes to food and drink. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish Chowder: A delicious soup made with local fish, vegetables, and spices that is a staple in Bermuda’s cuisine.
  • Bermuda Fish Sandwich: A sandwich made with fried fish, coleslaw, and a brioche bun that is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
  • Rum Cake: A boozy dessert made with Bermuda’s famous Gosling’s Black Seal Rum.

Local Beverages

  • Dark n’ Stormy: A cocktail made with Bermuda’s own Gosling’s Black Seal Rum and ginger beer.
  • Rum Swizzle: A sweet and citrusy rum cocktail that is a must-try when visiting Bermuda.
  • Bermuda Coffee: A hot beverage made with rum, coffee, and whipped cream.

Where to Stay in Devonshire Parish: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Devonshire Parish has a variety of accommodation options to suit every kind of traveler’s needs. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • Rosewood Bermuda: A luxurious resort that overlooks the ocean and offers world-class amenities.
  • Grape Bay Beach Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel that is located near some of the best beaches in Devonshire Parish.
  • Greenbank Guesthouse and Cottages: A charming guesthouse that provides a relaxing home base to explore the Parish.

What to Buy in Devonshire Parish: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Bermuda Shorts: A colorful and comfortable short that is perfect for Bermuda’s warm climate.
  • Handmade Pottery: Bermuda’s local artisans create beautiful pottery that is perfect to take home as a souvenir.
  • Rum: Bermuda is famous for its rum, and you can find local brands like Gosling’s Black Seal and Bacardi at duty-free shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Devonshire Parish

Bermuda has a unique cultural identity that is worth exploring. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and it’s essential to be respectful of their traditions and customs during your visit. Here are some of the things to keep in mind:

  • Politeness: Bermudians place a high value on politeness and are known for their welcoming attitude towards visitors.
  • Sundays and Public Holidays: Sundays and Public holidays are taken seriously in Bermuda, and many businesses will be closed on these days.
  • Etiquette: Bermudians are known for their formal etiquette, and you should dress appropriately when visiting churches and other formal places.

Best Time to Visit Devonshire Parish

The best time to visit Devonshire Parish is from April to November when the weather is warm and dry. January and February are the coldest months in Bermuda, and many hotels and attractions may be closed during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Devonshire Parish

Here are some of the things you should and shouldn’t do while visiting Devonshire Parish:

Do:

  • Respect the Environment: Bermuda has strict environmental laws that are in place to protect the island’s natural beauty, and it’s essential to respect them.
  • Tip Appropriately: Tipping is customary in Bermuda, and you should tip 15% to 20% in restaurants and to service providers.
  • Learn about the Local Culture: Bermuda has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring, and you should take the time to learn about it during your visit.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Bermuda takes its environmental laws seriously, and littering is a considerable offense.
  • Be Impolite: Bermudians are known for their politeness and friendliness, and it’s important to reciprocate their behavior.
  • Bring Your Vehicle: Visitors are not allowed to bring their vehicles to Bermuda, and you should use public transportation or rent a vehicle on the island.

Safety and Health

Safety in Devonshire Parish

Bermuda is known for its low crime rate and is considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s important to take the necessary precautions and avoid carrying valuable items when moving around.

Health in Devonshire Parish

Bermuda has a reliable healthcare system, and tourists can access medical services at the Island’s hospitals and clinics. It’s essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies during your visit.

Getting to Devonshire Parish: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Devonshire Parish

Bermuda has one airport, the L.F. Wade International Airport, which is located in St. George’s Parish. It’s approximately 20 minutes drive from Devonshire Parish.

Bus Stations Near Devonshire Parish

The Bermuda Public transportation system offers reliable bus services to Devonshire Parish from Hamilton City and other areas in the island.

Other Options

  • Taxi: Taxis are available in Bermuda and are metered. It’s essential to agree on a fare before starting any journey.
  • Scooter: Scooters are available for rent on the island, and it’s an excellent way to explore Devonshire Parish at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Devonshire Parish

The best way to explore Devonshire Parish is by using public transportation services like buses and ferries, where you can get a Bermudian Transportation pass which allows unlimited travel around the island.

Where to Go Next from Devonshire Parish: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions that you can visit from Devonshire Parish:

  • Crystal Caves: Located in St. George’s Parish, the Crystal Caves is an underground cave that is home to crystal-clear water.
  • Horseshoe Bay: A world-renowned pink-sand beach that is a must-visit for any visitor to Bermuda.
  • St. George’s Parish: One of the oldest parishes in Bermuda, St. George’s is a UNESCO world heritage site that has a rich history worth exploring.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Devonshire Parish is a beautiful gem in Bermuda that is worth visiting for any traveler seeking a fun-filled and authentic experience. In this comprehensive guide, we have highlighted some of the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and much more, which will help you plan a memorable trip to this picturesque parish.