Barbados is a relatively flat island rising west to east in a series of terraces to its highest point Mount Hillaby, which is 1100ft. On the western side of the island, the sea is relatively calm. However, on the eastern side where the waves roll in from the Atlantic the coast is much more rugged.Excursions.

At Richmond Plantation, an old sugar estate, Flower Forest of Barbados stands 850 feet above sea level near the western edge of the Scotland District, a mile from Harrison's Cave. Set in one of the most scenic parts of Barbados, it is more than just a botanical garden, for people and nature came together here to create something beautiful.

Located in the parish of St.Philip, Sam Lord's Castle is a beautiful Georgian mansion built in 1820 by the notorious buccaneer Samuel Hall Lord. Legend has it that Sam Lord acquired his wealth by plundering ships, which he lured onto the reefs off the coast, by hanging lanterns in the coconut trees. Captains mistook these lights for Bridgetown and wrecked their ships on the reefs. The Castle contains priceless antiques of furniture, paintings, silver and china - some the original possessions of Sam Lord himself.

Francia Plantation  This home stands on a wooded hillside overlooking the St. George Valley, and is still owned and occupied by descendants of its original occupants. Inside, you can explore several rooms, including the dining room with family silver and an 18th-century James McCabe bracket clock. On the walls are antique maps and prints, including a map of the West Indies printed in 1522.

Gun Hill Signal Station  One of two such stations owned and operated by the Barbados National Trust, Gun Hill Signal Station is strategically placed on the highland of St. George and commands a panoramic view from the east to the west. Built in 1818, it was the finest of a chain of signal stations and was also used as an outpost for the British army stationed there at the time.

Heritage Park & Rum Factory  The first rum distillery to be launched on the island since the 19th century, this factory is located in a former molasses and sugar plantation dating back 350 years. Produced on site is a white rum, ESA Field, praised by connoisseurs.