Don't freeze, chill

DON’T FREEZE…

IT’S COLD, it’s wet and, frankly, winter is all pretty miserable – so, who hasn’t dreamed of escaping to a beautiful Caribbean island? Welcome to Tobago, the sun-drenched paradise that has personality and rustic charm in spades. As you’d expect, Tobago is awash with Insta-perfect powdery beaches and swaying palms, but there’s so much more to the story of this wild and authentic idyll. It may only be 25 miles long and 7 miles wide, but Tobago punches well above its weight in terms of visitor appeal. This is an island that boasts ancient rainforest, beautiful reefs and impressive wildlife encounters – it’s full of incredible birdlife, for example.

Find your perfect escape. British Airways flies to Tobago twice weekly from Gatwick.

The Caribbean gem that’s an ideal escape from the winter blues

Take to the waves

Just throw your towel and you’ll hit a beautiful beach in Tobago. It’s a sun lover’s dream. But if you can peel yourself off your lounger, getting into the water is just as much fun. The diving is excellent, with world-class sites like Kelleston Drain, London Bridge and Japanese Gardens. Buccoo Reef is a great place for snorkelling – and visiting here is a must-do for any Tobago trip. You could also glide across the water on a stand-up paddleboarding tour to Bon Accord Lagoon, to see the captivating glow of bioluminescent plankton. Or maybe catch a ride in a glass-bottomed boat? You’ll enjoy a kaleidoscope of corals and colourful sea creatures – everything from angelfish and parrotfish to spiny lobsters, eagle rays and even nurse sharks, appearing right under your feet.

Tuck in

The island offers a real eating adventure for all ages. Your taste buds will delight at the fresh produce, from just-caught seafood to exotic fruits like rambutan and tamarind. Treat yourself to some refined dining in restaurants such as Fish Pot in Black Rock or the Seahorse Inn above Grafton Beach, or just graze on the delicious fare at one of the excellent street stalls dotted around the island. Try coo-coo (like polenta), callaloo (a tropical spinach soup), chicken stew and classic curry crab and dumpling. The village of Castara is known for its dirt ovens, a traditional African design cooking up pumpkin loaves and traditional coconut tarts. Don’t rush away either – the weekly bonfire is a banging beach party with local music.

What’s SUP … explore Tobago’s crystal waters by paddleboard

Small but mighty, it offers an immense variety of experiences, not least the opportunity for weary families to relax, recharge and get back to nature. Add in warm and friendly locals who go out of their way to make kids feel welcome, and you have everything you need for a great family winter break. It also helps that Tobago is well priced, with a great range of accommodation, from hotels to eco lodges and self-catering villas. And it couldn’t be easier to get there, thanks to British Airways’ twice-weekly year-round flights. Even the airport transfers are a breeze – you’ll be unpacked and on the beach before you know it. So what can visitors look forward to? The only answer can be, “So much…”

Small wonder ... the island is home to six species of tiny hummingbird

Get back to nature

The natural world is everything in Tobago – and with an astonishing 260 recorded species, it’s bird-watching heaven. There are also hiking trails that all the family can enjoy. A highlight is the Unesco-listed Main Ridge Forest Reserve, the oldest forest conservation area in the western hemisphere. Walk the Gilpin Trace, marvelling at the giant cacao trees and colourful birds before stopping off at the 54m-high Argyle Waterfall.

Watch leatherback turtles on Turtle Beach: Tobago is home to the world’s third-largest nesting population of this endangered species. The kids can even try being rangers for the day, working with conservation volunteers from Save Our Sea Turtles. To see other species up close, head for Corbin Wildlife Park and meet shy agoutis (rodents related to guinea pigs), as well as armadillos, iguanas and caimans – similar to alligators.

Get back to nature

Take a relaxing boat trip to the shallow Nylon Pool – named by Princess Margaret on her honeymoon because the water was as clear as her nylon stockings. Feeling more energetic? Try mountain biking – there are dirt trails for all abilities. If you’re brave, ride the ridge-hugging Elvis Goats trail for fantastic views. In Tobago, experiences are as important as attractions. Head for the ocean when the fishermen come in and you’ll soon find yourself helping to haul the nets up the beach.

Then you can enjoy traditional cook-outs, boisterous crab racing, or just a spot of shopping at the brightly painted beach huts in Store Bay. And don’t miss liming, a joyous Tobagonian pastime that involves simply hanging and enjoying each other’s company. You won’t have to walk far to find a group just chilling, and they’ll be delighted if you join in. It’s the perfect way to embrace island life – and the ultimate holiday escape.

You’ll be hooked ... check out the catch of the day

Book now

To find out more, go to tobagobeyond.com

Head for the hills ... Main Ridge Forest Reserve

Pleased as punch ... try a local cocktail

CHILL

Captivating ... beautiful Bon Accord Lagoon

Close encounters ... watch turtles or cool off at the Argyle Waterfall

British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 3-star Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort from £889pp, travelling on selected dates between 1 September and 30 September 2024 inclusive. Includes economy (World Traveller) return flights from London Gatwick Airport, 1 checked bag at 23kg per person and accommodation on an All Inclusive board basis. Book by 30 January 2024. For reservations visit ba.com/tobago or call 0344 493 0120.