The Salt Raker Inn

Duke Street, Cockburn Town, Grand Turk, TKCA 1ZZ, Turks and Caicos Islands, Cockburn Town, Grand Turk TKCA 1ZZ, Turks and Caicos Islands

Why We Like It

The Salt Raker Inn transports one back in time to days long forgotten. Although having endured many hurricanes over the course of its existence, this inn still maintains most of its original structure and character, with minimal change to its design.

Fodor's Expert Review

An unpretentious inn filled with island character and charm, this 19th-century house was built by shipwright Jonathan Glass in the 1850s, complete with its quirky nautical features. A large anchor on the sun-dappled pathway marks the entrance, while a large, breezy balcony with commanding views over the sea gives one the sense of what living on Grand Turk must have been like for those during the salt raking era, keeping watch over the comings and goings on land and at sea. Although ground floor rooms are shaded havens, they have no sea views. The two rooms upstairs share a balcony–-a fabulous spot to watch the sunset. One of the inn’s best features is its hidden garden of tall tamarind and neem trees, climbing vines, and potted plants, home to the hotel's Secret Garden Restaurant.

Tip The Secret Garden Restaurant incorporates live music into evening dining a couple of nights per week. Be sure to ask ahead and book accordingly so as not to miss out.

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Room

As the Salt Raker Inn is located across the street from the ocean, upstairs rooms and suites have the best views out to sea, offering balconies with seating and hammocks to while away the lazier afternoon hours on. Lower rooms may have a partial ocean view, as foliage and architectural details of the inn may obstruct the view. The garden room is tucked away into the lush garden backdrop. Suites are more spacious, offering a comfortable couch and small table in the room, whereby "rooms" are smaller with bed and chair.

You Should Know This is a historic property that has maintained its historical - albeit quirky - character. Do not expect any luxuries!

Bathroom

Bathrooms are clean yet basic in all rooms. Single sinks and small showers can be expected.

Lobby

Enter in off the street through The Salt Raker's narrow, ancient lobby. It is here that you are first transported back in time, with its weather-worn boards and creaking floors. Pass through to the other side and into the hidden garden and restaurant found to the back of the Inn.

Pool

No pool on-site, however, The Salt Raker is right across the street from a nice little beach with fine swimming.

Dining

The Secret Garden Restaurant and Bar is set behind the inn, sheltered from the ocean's trade winds amidst a mature garden. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner here, in a very relaxed atmosphere - and often in the company of an islander, as this is a favourite haunt for those that live on Grand Turk. Local fare includes grits for breakfast, conch and lobster dishes at lunch and dinner, while a selection of North American favourites are also offered: scrambled eggs and toast, burgers, fish and chips. Leave the table and belly up to the bar if you wish a bit of a chat.

You Should Know The Secret Garden Restaurant incorporates live music into evening dining a couple of nights per week. Be sure to ask ahead and book accordingly so as not to miss out.

Drinking

There is a bar within The Secret Garden Restaurant and Bar.

You Should Know There are a number of other little establishments along the waterfront where one can enjoy a drink and a chat with the locals.

What's Nearby

Getting Around

Grand Turk is a fairly small island, therefore getting around is relatively easy and inexpensive. Car and scooter rentals are available, while cycling the entire island is also a possibility for the active visitor. The whole of Cockburn Town is easy to explore on foot, with rest stops along the waterfront. ATV and Segway tours are another way to get to see the main sights.

Restaurants

The Secret Garden Restaurant is located on site, however there are a number of other restaurants within walking distance right along the waterfront.

Bars

The Secret Garden Bar is located alongside the restaurant. There's live music played by one of the local musicians several nights a week, making this spot a lively one; it's a favorite amongst the residents.

Quick Facts

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 649-946–2260