Britain’s oldest Overseas Territory, laid-back Bermuda was settled by accident in 1609, and still has red post boxes, parishes named Devonshire and Southampton and cobbled streets lined with sugar almond-coloured buildings. The 21-square-mile isle in the midst of the Atlantic is fringed with pink-tinged beaches lapped by impossibly blue waves, giving way to a host of watersports, from wreck diving to windsurfing, snorkelling to sailing.

It’s also a paradise for golfers, with seven world-class courses, though if you just want to lounge by a palm-fringed pool, sip on a signature Dark ‘n’ Stormy and be pampered at a state-of-the-art spa, there’s plenty of that, too. The island’s buzzy hotel scene has something for everyone, from design-led beachfront resorts, to stylish adults-only boutique hotels and historic grand dames where you can spy on superyachts from an infinity pool.

Rosedon

Bermuda

9/10

This early 20th-century mansion is now a spoiling adults-only boutique hotel. It’s kept its original features and Bermudian charm, while adding contemporary comforts, a pool and three superb eating spots. You’ll find it enveloped in gorgeous tropical gardens, just a stone’s throw from Hamilton’s lively waterfront.

Expert pick

Best for the beach

Laid-back luxury is the order of the day at the Loren at Pink Beach, which channels Miami while remaining unmistakably Bermudian. With excellent service and a stunning location on the South Shore, its contemporary design, clean lines and acres of glass all come with a dazzling backdrop of pink-tinged sand and expanse of turquoise ocean.

Best for luxury

One of Bermuda’s most luxurious resorts sprawls over 240 beautifully manicured tropical acres. The hotel features one of the largest private pink-sand beaches on the island and a championship-level golf course. Add to this a spa, swimming pools and plenty of restaurants and you have a perfect spot to fly and flop.

Hamilton Princess & Beach Club

Hamilton

8/10

The iconic Hamilton Princess – dubbed the ‘pink palace’ – has been a waterfront landmark in Bermuda’s capital since 1885. Behind the imposing façade though, it’s been given a stylish, contemporary makeover, plus you can expect outdoor pools, a handful of buzzy restaurants, a spa and a museum-worthy art collection.

Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa

Somerset

8/10

This Bermuda icon, set on a 23-acre peninsula, has been welcoming guests to its 85 quaint pink cottages since 1923. The property is an enduring favourite for those looking for quiet luxury – as the names of the legion of repeat visitors etched onto the famous Cambridge Beaches’ wooden boards in the main building – attest.

Azura

Mt Pleasant, Bermuda

8/10

This new boutique hotel is set in a lovely South Shore location, surrounded by lush greenery with endless ocean views. Expect contemporary architecture, clean lines and acres of glass, with a showstopping seawater swimming pool. Easy access to the island’s most beautiful beaches as well as the capital, Hamilton, make it a convenient choice, too.

The Reefs Resort & Club

Southampton

8/10

This family-owned resort is perched on a limestone cliff, steps from a private pink-sand beach on the island’s stunning south shore. It’s overflowing with traditional island charm, with many guests returning again and again.

Best for families

Bermuda’s only resort offering an all-inclusive supplement is set among subtropical gardens looking down to the water and comes with a private beach and one-of-a-kind subterranean cave spa. It’s ideal for families, who’ll be spoilt for choice with the watersports and activities on offer for both adults and children.

Royal Palms Hotel

Bermuda

7/10

This family-owned boutique hotel, set on the capital’s outskirts, is quintessentially Bermudian, with two 19th-century manor houses decorated with island touches and surrounded by lush gardens with a pool to cool off in. It prides itself on its personal service enjoyed by its many repeat leisure and business guests.

Additional reviews by Kaye Holland.