Last month’s long weekend getaway to the Bahamas proved to a great experience. During our stay at the Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas, Robert and I could relax by the pool or we could take advantage of this resort’s various activities. These included nightly music, nature walks, and yoga classes by the harbor.

We’d also had the chance to visit nearby downtown Nassau to view the area’s art, culture, and pirate history. It would have been great to experience other attractions including the tour and tasting at John Watling’s Distillery and the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas, but that would have to wait for our next visit.

However, a highlight of our trip was yet to come because on the last night we were invited to have dinner at legendary Graycliff. Located next to Nassau’s Government House, this five-star restaurant was housed in a 260 year-old mansion that was originally built by the Caribbean pirate, Captain John Howard Graysmith.

Through the centuries this historic home had been owned by the rich and royal to be ultimately purchased in 1974 by Italian entrepreneur Enrico Garzaroli.

Once inside, we were guided to an elegant sitting area to wait until our table was ready. To the right of this room was a small place where Graycliff Cigars were being rolled.

The restaurant was filled with several beautiful dining rooms.

 

 

But we were seated in what I thought was the most beautiful one of all.

 

As a gentleman performed iconic songs from a piano in the sitting area, we were delighted to see that Graycliff lived up to its reputation in terms of service, ambiance and cuisine.

 

 

 

After our amazing dinner, we were treated to a tour of Graycliff’s famous multi-million dollar wine cellar.  Said to be the third largest in the world,  we were told that there were about 275,000 bottles stored there. The bottles were organized in separate areas and in different categories so that a diner could easily obtain a glass of his or her choice.

Then, after listening to more music by now a lady performer in the sitting area, we reluctantly asked if they could call us a cab. Instead, the Maitre D’ walked us out to a parked limo that we gladly hired for a little more than what the taxi would have cost.

The next afternoon we took off to fly over a breathtaking view of the Bahamas. Perfect ending.

 

Great trip!