Barbados Offers Car Lovers A Special Winter Getaway

An island getaway conjures images of lolling under sunny blue skies and palm trees, enjoying rum drinks by the beach.

But if you’re automotive gearhead who prefers the smell of gasoline to suntan oil, Barbados is a destination that will keep your motor running.

Settled in the early 1600’s by the British, and a colony until 1966, the island nation has built an industrious economy, and an intense native car culture and motorsports scene.

Barbados boasts the FIA approved 2.5-mile Bushy Park Circuit, which has hosted top drivers including Formula 1 Champion Lewis Hamilton.

Motorsports events are scheduled throughout the year including the annual island wide Sol Barbados Rally, one of the largest European WRC style rallies on this side of the Atlantic.

Off the track Barbados is also home to the world renowned Mallalieu Motor Collection, housed in a historic colonial army barracks, featuring 24 historic Bentleys, Rolls Royces, Triumphs, Worselys, Austins and other rare British marques. The collection is curated by Bill Mallalieu, Barbados Rally Club founder back in the 50’s driving a tough old Volvo that is part of the collection.

Formula 1 World Champion and controversial British TV show host Jeremy Clarkson get plenty of sun during a weekend of events for the Top Gear Festival.

American rally, drifting and trick driving star Ken Block has competed in Barbados.