Antigua is world renowned for its luxury beach resorts but those looking for something a little more off the beaten track are also catered for. From rooms infused with history to rustic cottages and even beds on boats, Antigua offers 'rooms with a difference' for Caribbean lovers after something a little more unusual. 

For sailing enthusiasts
Boat accommodation
Antigua is known as a leading sailing destination, namely for the annual Antigua Sailing Week which will celebrate 50 years in 2017. Visiting yachties are in for a delight as it is now possible to book with 'Beds on Board' which has a range of boat accommodation options in Antigua. The three cabin Voilactus yacht sleeping six is docked in Jolly Beach Harbour, just off shore from one of Antigua's most stunning beaches.  On board there are three cabins, a kitchen, two bathrooms and a spacious main cabin. Boat guests can sip on cocktails, listen to the music and watch the sunset after a day of sailing, snorkelling and exploring the island.  Overnight stays are from £99 per person per night. For further details: www.bedsonboard.com

 
Copper and Lumber Yard Hotel
The historic Copper and Lumber Yard Hotel in Nelson's Dockyard has 14 suites and studios, each named after one of Nelson's ships. Unusually, the hotel isn't located on a beach but at the heart of the marina, just steps from some of the most luxurious and famous yachts in the sailing world, ideal for sailing enthusiasts or those visiting for Antigua Sailing Week. The hotel is in one of the original buildings constructed by Nelson in 1783, which was used to store copper and lumber for ship building and maintenance. The bedrooms exude the elegance of 18th century England as they are furnished in period furniture with authentic antiques such as old sailing prints, steamer trunks and faux gas lamps offering a laid back charm blended with colonial history. For further details: www.copperandlumberhotel.com

For history buffs
'Gunpowder Suite' in Admiral's Inn
Caribbean lovers looking for a room drenched in history can head to Admiral's Inn in the historic Nelson's Dockyard on the south coast of Antigua.  The 23 room inn is set in four historic buildings dating from the 18th century and the luxury 'Gunpowder Suite' is one of the most spectacular. This is attached to a beautifully restored 18th century gunpowder store and has a deluxe king size four poster bed, large infinity swimming pool and a balcony overlooking Nelson's Dockyard and the bay. The entire Admiral's Inn hotel is infused with this history. The main building was constructed in the late 1780's when Nelson was in Antigua and the ground floor was used to store pitch, turpentine and lead with the upper floors used as offices for the dockyard engineers. Overnight stays start from £333 in high season. For further details: http://admiralsantigua.com/

For eco-luxe
Barbuda Belle, Barbuda
The five star Barbuda Belle on Antigua's twin island of Barbuda sits within the Codrington Lagoon Park and has taken every care to minimalise its impact on the stunning pink sand island. The 'green' resort has solar energy, careful water conservation and sustainable cuisine, with each meal prepared using only the freshest and locally sourced ingredients on the island. Built next to the largest colony of frigate birds in the western hemisphere, both hotel and birds coexist peacefully with minimal disturbance to the environment. Each of the six beachside bungalows have their own private balcony with stunning views over the nearby mangroves. Barbuda is accessible by boat or plane from Antigua. For further details: www.barbudabelle.com

For romantics
Gauguin Cottages, Galley Bay
The four Gauguin Cottages at the Galley Bay Resort in a quiet area of north-west Antigua are an usual find on an island known for its all-inclusive resorts. The one and two bedroom cottages are tucked away behind thick lush greenery but are just steps from the beach. The rounded white walled cottages have thatched rooves, woven bamboo ceilings and bold splashes of colour that echo Gauguin's palette.  Each cottage has a private plunge pool and sunbathing area, perfect for honeymooners or couples looking for a romantic getaway. Overnight stays in the cottages start from £639 per night on an all-inclusive basis. For further details: www.galleybayresort.com  

ENDS

Notes to editors

For media enquiries, please contact Minty Woolgar, Amelia Astley Birtwistle or Laoise Collins at The Brighter Group on Antigua@brightergroup.com or telephone 020 7326 9880.

For further information on Antigua and Barbuda please visit: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com