The Rockley hotel makes its debut on Barbados

The Rockley hotel has opened on the South Coast of Barbados. Owned and operated by the Ocean Hotels Group, the property is the reincarnation of the old South Beach hotel close to Rockley Beach.

“We’ve reimagined The Rockley as an experiential, culture-rich hotel connecting our guests with the vibrant surrounding community,” said Ocean Hotels CEO Patricia Affonso Dass. “From the cuisine to art and music, we welcome guests and locals to join us as we showcase and celebrate the very best of Barbados’ eclectic South Coast.”

The 49-room boutique hotel was brought to life by Michelle Leotaud of Apple & Iron, a Barbados-based design firm that also designed the hotel’s nearby sister property, the O2 Beach Club & Spa. Rooms at The Rockley feature local touches including Bajan sayings on throw pillows, the island’s Bus Stop sign and locally crafted amenities that celebrate Bajan culture. Room types include junior suites with kitchenettes and 700-sq.-ft., one-bedroom suites with full kitchens and separate living areas.

The hotel has a new outdoor covered bar area and has also upgraded and repurposed its reception, pool deck and communal spaces including the fitness room, play space and guest hospitality suite.

Local artwork is displayed throughout The Rockley as part of its overall design. In the lobby, a new “Art for the People” gallery will spotlight rotating installations by local artists. A hand-painted black and white mural showcasing some of Barbados’ most iconic items and symbols can be seen in the restaurant. The lobby’s main column displays a local art collection representing each cardinal direction featuring the top Barbados attractions.