The serene sister of St. Kitts, Nevis is one of the lesser-trod Caribbean islands. Here you’ll find unblemished shores and rainforest trails, where mango and papaya trees flourish and hibiscus flowers bloom. Kick off your sandals and discover paradise on a beach. Or lace up your hiking boots and go in search of hidden waterfalls. Sprinkled with boutique hotels and plantation houses, Nevis is an idyllic island escape.
NATURE
All roads lead to Nevis Peak. Set at the centre of the island, a network of both gentle and challenging trails run up its slopes. Depending on your route, you could see volcanic springs or waterfalls, rainforest vines or cocoa trees. They say there are more monkeys than people on Nevis. So look out for these shy creatures swinging above you as you walk, too.
HISTORY
Dubbed the ‘Sweet Island’ by explorers, you’ll spot reminders of Nevis’ sugar industry on your travels. Stationed here as a young seafarer, Horatio Nelson married the widow of a plantation-owner. In fact, you can visit the site of their nuptials – St. John’s Church. Nevis was also the birthplace of American statesman, Alexander Hamilton. See his 18th-century childhood home, now a museum, in Charlestown.
BEACHES
Popular Oualie Beach is the first port of call for most visitors to Nevis. Shallow waters make it a family (and local) favourite. Couples seeking out a spot of serenity will fall head over heels for Lovers Beach, however. Time it right and you could even share the sand with nesting turtles. For a lively day – or night – beside the sea, put west-coast Pinney’s Beach on your ‘must see’ list.
Pick up some decorative pottery as a memento of your time on Nevis. Islanders craft it from sunset-red clay and fire pieces on coconut shells.
