Fairmont Royal Pavilion

Wow what a fantastic location. The view from every room is sea facing and the beach to view or walk is simply wonderful. Idyllic! BUT….. the hotel is tired and needs a serious refresh to make it 5 star! From a people perspective most staff are very attentive to guests needs although it was clearly evident that ‘extra’ attention was made to the ‘club’ members! By club I mean the clique that existed during the week of our stay. Not every guest wishes to be in the clique but it felt uncomfortable on occasions. This was particularly evident at the pool and bar area where the familiarity of guests in the clique and staff was astonishing. We also noted a couple in the clique pouring their own alcohol at the pool area (unknowingly to staff!) albeit they had wonderful attention from the motel staff including managers.

An honest review from returning guests – loyalty earned, investment now required This review comes from a couple who have stayed at Fairmont Royal Pavilion for the past three years. First and foremost: the staff. They are, quite simply, exemplary. From the gardeners through to management, (special mention, the new guy in food and beverage) the team here is exceptional. I hesitate to name individuals because doing so risks missing others who deserve equal recognition, but special mention must go to St Claire, Nicolas, Kyle, Jalisa, Antoine, Dario, Ashlee and Sabrina. Their warmth, professionalism and genuine care elevate the entire experience and are the true reason we return. The hotel itself enjoys a sensational coastal position. The stretch of beach is extensive, pristine and effectively inaccessible to non-guests due to the way the sea meets private property at both ends. This creates a sense of exclusivity that is increasingly rare — and deeply valued. And now, the dilemma. The Royal Pavilion is made special by its location and, above all, by its people — but the physical fabric of the hotel is in need of attention. The rooms face unrivalled, breathtaking views and are generously proportioned. However, they would benefit enormously from a comprehensive refresh. A deep clean, upholstery steaming and routine maintenance in each room would make a noticeable and immediate difference. As one example, our room fridge has never had a functioning cold drawer across all three of our stays. At breakfast, some chairs are plump and comfortable, while others are sunken or showing torn fabric — small details, but details that matter at this level. We were not alone in these observations. Many guests we spoke with expressed similar views. Accor should consider itself exceptionally fortunate to have such a loyal, long-standing team — many of whom remember us from previous visits. With so many familiar faces year after year, the hotel feels more like a private club than a bland, faceless chain. But this is a five-star property, marketed as luxury — and Accor should be taking note. Would we stay again? Without hesitation. Would we write the same review again if nothing changes? Regrettably, yes — just as quickly. Accor: this hotel deserves investment. Not only for the guest experience, but for the remarkable staff who carry the brand every single day.

We ended our three week trip to Barbados here in a Beachfront king room for eight nights and were pleased. Twice daily housekeeping is terrific supplying plenty of towels and waters. The pool and beach staff are attentive too though it would be better if the jacuzzi was actually hot. The included buffet breakfast is good with many options and helpful service. We dined many times at Taboras and were very happy they revised the prior menu. The TV now included our favorite FOX News channel which most Americans watch, and just enough others for NFL games. Sadly the beach walk can no longer easily reach to Holetown given the conditions at neighboring villas. We enjoyed our stay though we do agree that the rooms need an update.

Well done! Special thanks to the chef and the restaurant staff at Fairmont Royal Pavillion. This is my second time eating there and the food and service was top notch. Best Buttermilk chicken in Barbados! :) Highly recommended.

Some things excellent, a few things not. The location is outstanding, the beach is flat, the waves slight and ideal for swimming. The beach can be reached with a short walk from any room. The hotel is small, it has a village or club feel and a nice ambiance. The greeting on arrival was pleasant, professional, quick, and despite an early arrival (1:30pm - arrival time is 4pm) our room was ready immediately. The concierge service is excellent and cars are always available (at a price). The only negatives were the restaurant and breakfast. There was a wait for seating every morning at breakfast, despite tables being free. Tables could have been cleared, and all guests seated immediately, the number of guests arriving was not high. The greeter was often absent, and very focused on sitting some guests at the tables next to the sea. One can only speculate why. Similar story at night in the Taboreais restaurant in the evening. Seating was a problem, some visitors seem to have a fast track. Better managed at lunchtime. On one occasion in the afternoon the food was very slow, on another prompt. Seating was better managed. The good news is that there are a large number of great restaurants near by, often walking distance, and the concierge will book them for you. All had superior food to the hotel. Check out time is mean at 11am. The BA flight to London needs a 2:30pm hotel departure. We were refused a 2pm extension but given 12;30. Meaning a ‘package holiday’ end to our vacation with cases packed, sitting in the heat. I would stay here again, the location is world class, service very good, except for my frustration with breakfast, and seating at restaurants. Maybe I caught them on a bad day. Accor can certainly run good hotels, so maybe they will fix the seating problems. By the way. Dont book directly. Good deals are probably available through your travel agent.