Top 10 Things to Do in Montserrat
We are insanely biased, but we believe that Montserrat has something for everyone. Whether you want to take it slow and not venture far from your villa or stay busy every moment of your trip, these are the top 10 things you must do on your next visit.
1. Visit the Montserrat Volcano Observatory
Nestled in the hills over Salem, the Montserrat Volcano Observatory has decades of geology, geography, volcanology and history on full view even before you enter. The unobstructed view of the Soufriere Hills Volcano (cloud cover permitting) is a photographer’s and a scientist’s dream. Visitors can watch an engaging and dramatic video of the island’s journey from rediscovering activity at the volcano to understanding how our scientists monitor it today.
2. Take a Buried City Tour
No two tours of the Buried City Tour into the abandoned former capital of Plymouth, Montserrat are ever the same. That is because our guides each have different stories of what life was like when Plymouth was the gem of the Caribbean, and deeply emotional and riveting experiences of the volcanic eruptions through the years. You can find a list of certified guides here.
3. Tour of breathtaking Vistas Garibaldi/Jack boy Hill
We get to live in Montserrat every day and we confess to being mesmerized and blown away at every turn. One of the best things to do is visit Garibaldi Hill in the South and Jack Boy Hill in the North East to take in two of the most breathtaking views of Montserrat and the ocean. Garibaldi Hill provides an unobstructed view of the island’s coastline looking North West and it is an incredible vantage point from which to look across at St. George’s Hill, the Soufriere Hills Volcano, and the abandoned capital of Plymouth below. On clear days, Jack Boy Hill offers an enviable view from which to gaze at Antigua and Guadeloupe. Cloudless days provide Instagram-worthy images of the volcano’s North-Easterly flank. A visit to Jack Boy Hill is a lesson in how islands are made, as you will see how the eruptions have increased our size.
4. A Botanical Garden Tour
Prior to the eruptions, Montserrat’s botanic garden was nestled inside the old Agricultural Department in Plymouth. Since 2005, the Botanic Garden was created as part of the Montserrat National Trust campus in Salem. Over the years, many of the island’s endemic flora and fauna have been planted and serve as a living lab for scientists, students and visitors who want to enjoy a pleasant day in nature. Staff are extremely knowledgeable about the plants and their herbal and medicinal properties. The gift shop also provides lovely mementos of your visit.
5. A drink from Runaway Ghaut
Locals stop for a drink on hot days or after a hike on one of the nearby trails. You are welcome to have a drink too from Runaway Ghaut, but beware. The legend says that if you drink from this bern, you will return. This is probably the reason residents agree there is nowhere else on earth they would rather be and why some visitors turn this paradise into their home.
6. Hike to the Petroglyphs
Montserrat is still revealing her secrets to us. In 2016, hikers uncovered a rare find
in Soldier Ghaut (pronounced “gut”). A series of petroglyphs were discovered hidden behind vines and other vegetation, which had come loose. Petroglyphs are a drawing or carving on rock, made by a member of a prehistoric people. The Montserrat National Trust have said the markings most probably were made by Amerindians, the first known people of Montserrat, some 2000 to 1500 years ago. Visit our hiking page to learn more about booking a guide.
7. Enjoy the National Dish at The People’s Place at Hilltop
Sampling a hearty bowl of our national dish, goat water must be in your top five things to do while in Montserrat. There is no better place to enjoy it than at The People’s Place at Hilltop. Goat water is a rich, flavorful stew made with mutton and often served with a roll. Owner and chef, John Fergus’ generous smile and gregarious laugh are the first things you will see when you arrive. There is also another spectacular view of S Corner (the amazing, winding mountain road below) and Northern Montserrat from the wooden deck, while you enjoy an ice-cold beer or local drink.
8. Memories and mementos at Hilltop Coffee House
Right above The People’s Place is Hilltop Coffee House. Don’t be fooled by the name. There is much more to enjoy than coffee. David Lea and his family have curated the largest local collection of 80s music memorabilia, which was produced at Air Studios – owned by the late Sir George Martin, Manager of The Beatles. Come prepared to check out stunning photos and artwork of the early volcanic eruptions. The tribute wall to the late soca king of the world, Arrow is an added treat that would leave you feeling Hot! Hot! Hot!
9. Kayak to Lovers Beach/Rendezvous
Grab a friend and a double kayak from one of our local water sports’ companies and head out for a day at Lover’s Beach or Rendezvous Bay. Both are located on the Western side of the island and provide privacy as the only way to get to them are by either hiking or from the ocean. Be sure to let others know where you are headed and carry all the necessary safety gear. You will need to tote water and food, as neither location provides these services due to their seclusion.
10. Rejuvenate your senses with Yoga/Spa therapy
Visitors have often commented that they feel a sense of relaxation, the minute the Montserrat coastline comes into view and even more so once they touch the ground. Take this feeling even further with a rejuvenating spa experience or a yoga class. There are several local day spas for you to choose from. We also have certified yoga instructors who offer both group and private classes. They will come to your villa or you can join a class on a local beach. Click here for a list of operators and instructors.
Whatever you choose to do on your visit to Montserrat, we hope you leave relaxed, with share-worthy photos and wonderful memories. See you soon.