Surrounded by 50 acres of elegantly landscaped gardens and set on half a mile of Bermuda’s pink sands, the Elbow Beach Bermuda Hotel resembles a tropical paradise. The resort embodies old-world Bermuda hotels and delivers a caliber of service and amenities that reflect its Mandarin Oriental pedigree. Stately white columns line the entrance to the historic main building, which is painted in soft yellows and crowned by the island’s signature white roofs. Elbow Beach is a place for discerning travelers to find leisurely diversions and relaxation, whether at the world-class holistic day spa, on the tennis courts or in a swaying hammock curled up with a novel.

Entering the vast lobby is like stepping into a historic estate; every detail from the glittering crystal chandeliers to the rich Oriental carpets to the traditional wainscoting exudes traditional luxury. Likewise, guest rooms and suites recall old-world plantation charm with woven wicker furnishings, polished wooden floors, wood-beamed eaved ceilings and louvered shutters that let through the ocean breeze. Freestanding storybook cottages and seaside bungalows are nestled throughout the property, providing more spacious accommodations for groups or honeymooners looking for a bit more privacy. With fanciful names like the Rose Cottage or Bird of Paradise, the cottages run between 1,000 and 3,300 square feet. Despite the timeless ambience of the resort, many of the rooms have up-to-the-minute amenities, like flat-screen TVs and Bose sound systems.

In keeping with Elbow Beach’s upscale vibe, dining options will live up to the expectations of even the most sophisticated gourmand. The Seahorse Grill is one of Bermuda’s most celebrated fine-dining restaurants, even more so with the recent recruit of acclaimed head chef Tamasz Tabor, who has expanded the Bermudian menu to include global influences and Asian touches. Mikey’s Bistro, serving simple casual cuisine; Blue Point, with a menu of fresh seafood; and the Mediterranean inspired Lido all take advantage of the sweeping ocean views and offer alfresco dining. Sea Breeze serves aperitifs, cocktails and wine accompanied by a light selection of tapas and sushi. The Veranda Bar serves an extensive selection of island rums and fine cigars in the tradition of intimate social clubs.

Leisurely diversions are the order of the day at Elbow Beach, from the five soft-top tennis courts, with lessons given by a resident pro, to an on-site putting green to the sprawling freeform swimming pool. The turquoise waters of Bermuda are ideal for swimming and sport, including snorkeling and scuba diving at the nearby historic shipwreck site. It is easy for adults to relax knowing that youngsters are attended to at the Elbow Beach Kids Club. Open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, the club has a comprehensive roster of activities for children ages 5 through 12, from kite building, to nature walks and sand sculpting to board games. The Spa at Elbow Beach has a holistic philosophy centered on individual needs and personalized service. The extensive menu of health and wellness treatments include Signature Therapies, like the Oriental Harmony scrub and four-hand massage; Journeys, like the Ocean Wave Ritual, which uses native sand and enriched-marine mud; as well as body treatments, facials, manicures and pedicures. The Spa also offers six private Spa Suites with rain showers, Jacuzzis and ocean-view terraces for an unparalleled experience of restoration and renewal. Resort staff members are available to help you take advantage of all the things to do in Bermuda, from golf outings to historical tours to horseback riding excursions.