Merlin Bay - Secret Garden

Secret Garden is a three-bedroom villa at Merlin Bay in St James, Barbados, a private, gated enclave of just 7 villas on a palm-fringed, crescent-shaped shoreline. Merlin Bay sits on a low sea cliff, with steps down to the beach.

The villa is fully air-conditioned and set over two floors. The living and dining level has open views over the gardens and access to the gardens, the main pool and the sea. An indoor dining room opens onto a tropical atrium and has a solid pine table that seats up to 12. There are three en-suite bedrooms: the master has a king bed and the other two have twin beds. Maid service is included twice a week, and a chef can be arranged at extra charge.

Secret Garden has its own plunge pool, and guests share a large lagoon-style resort pool in the landscaped gardens of the enclave. The terraces are a place to relax, have a drink or dine with family and friends while watching the sunset over the sea.

Merlin Bay is one mile north of Holetown, with its local and designer shops and many seaside restaurants.