Nevis: Day 2 (Part 1)

April 17, 2014

Seeing Nevis for the first time in daylight is an experience you never forget.  Imagine your favorite things from different Caribbean nations all in one island — I promise you it is that good.

Mornings at Nisbet Plantation Beach Club begin at Coconuts, an open-air dining room on the oceanfront where you are treated to a picturesque view.  A light breeze carries the sweet scent of both the tropics and the food.  Choose from an extensive menu of traditional breakfast dishes and island favorites, as well as from a buffet of fresh fruits and pastries.  We made sure to fuel up, because we were going to be spending the entire day on the Heritage Trail; seeing as much as we possibly could without rushing through anything.  The Nevis Heritage Trail leads you to twenty-five of the island’s premier historical sites.  By following the trail, it is possible to understand the history of the country and its many aspects.  It is amazing that such a tiny island can have so many things to do and see!

I seem to have the best luck when it comes to tour guides and Nevis was no exception.  Nevis Tourism Authority paired my husband and I with the incomparable Tracy Frazer.  I knew from the second we shook hands with her that we were going to have an unforgettable day.  The passion she exudes for her country is infectious.  As we began our drive around the island she said to us, “Nevis is like no other place you have been to before.  We have gorgeous beaches, wild monkeys, and old men riding around on donkeys while talking on their cell phones.”

Our first stop was at Cottle Church.  John Cottle, once the President of Nevis, built this tiny church in 1824 as a place for his family and his slaves to worship together (something unheard of at that time, since it was considered illegal).  The ruins are hidden in the woods off the main road.  The structure was severely damaged during an earthquake in 1974 and again in 1989 during Hurricane Hugo.  It is presently undergoing restoration to ensure its historical significance for the future.  Both locals and tourists are allowed to hold wedding ceremonies there today.

Back on the road we spotted our first Monkey Crossing sign, yet still no sign of monkeys, which we were told outnumbered the humans on the island.

We continued on to Mt. Nevis Hotel and Restaurant for a sweeping view of Saint Kitts.

And then over to Oualie Beach, a great spot for families and water sport enthusiasts.  This is also the beach where you take the ferryboat to and from Saint Kitts if staying at Nisbet Plantation Beach Club.

The next beach we visited was Cades Bay.  This quiet cove is nestled amongst sun-drenched beaches and sapphire waters.  From there you can enjoy even more stunning views of the rugged Saint Kitts peninsula and rainforest clad Nevis peak.  Looking for the ultimate in pampered service?  This is your spot on the island!

We briefly stopped at St. James Anglican Church, as it houses the only black crucifix in the entire Caribbean.

This was all even before lunchtime. . .

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Andi Perullo de Ledesma

I am Andi Perullo de Ledesma, a Chinese Medicine Doctor and Travel Photojournalist in Charlotte, NC. I am also wife to Lucas and mother to Joaquín. Follow us as we explore life and the world one beautiful adventure at a time.

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37 thoughts on “Nevis: Day 2 (Part 1)

  1. Jessica (Coco/Mingo)

    This post makes me miss home even more!! I’ve actually never heard of Nevis! But it looks so much like Hawaii…and I’m dying to visit the Caribbean one day soon. Beautiful photos!! And have a great Easter weekend, darling!

    Reply
  2. Alyx

    Oh my gosh, this place looks amazing! Seriously so beautiful, and I’m sure the pictures (as amazing as they are) don’t do it justice!

    Reply
  3. Pingback: Nevis: Day 2 (Part 2) | My Beautiful Adventures

  4. Emily in Chile

    This looks like the perfect day for Rodolfo and me – plenty of chilled out beach time but with some interesting history and culture thrown in. I’m jealous of your Caribbean adventures!

    Reply

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