Montserrat develops new themed hiking and walking trails
Trails offer a mix of authentic wilderness recreational experiences
MTB, Brades, Montserrat (February 8, 2006) – The Montserrat Tourist Board, as part of the Montserrat Tourism Development Project, is in the process of developing and maintaining a Thematic National Trail System for the island. The initiative seeks to make a greater number of trails available to hikers, establish standards for future trail development, provide opportunities for local economic activity, and provide opportunities for increased nature-, heritage- and community-based tourism.
The trails will cover a mixture of themes, including ecology, culture/heritage and remote/extreme. They will promote interpretation, appreciation and understanding of Montserrat’s special landscape features and endemic and rare species of fauna and flora, which coexist in breathtaking vistas and communities.
In an effort to expand the level and variety of adventure and challenge available to hikers, and to enrich the recreational experience, the number of trails to be developed or enhanced has increased from six to nine. These include Runaway Ghaut, the Cot, Oriole Walkway, Rendezvous Circle, Blackwood Allen, Duberry/Cassava, Dyer Piece/Blackwood Circle, Jack Boy Hill/Upper Blakes/Katy Hill and Baker Hill/Katy Hill/Upper Blakes.
To date six of the nine trails have been enhanced. Extreme trails Blackwood Allen, Jack Boy Hill/Upper Blakes/Katy Hill and Baker Hill/Katy Hill/Upper Blakes will be completed by March 2006. Trail enhancement work to date includes clearing of vegetation and footpath improvement, soil conservation work and erection of safety structures such as handrails and stairways, tastefully done to blend in with the natural surroundings. Trail signage and interpretation materials are currently being designed and will be available shortly.
The Montserrat Tourist Board invites residents and visitors to enjoy the trails of Montserrat. They are spectacular, easy to access and safe. As they are not overly developed, one can have an authentic wilderness recreational experience. Experienced and knowledgeable tour guides are available for hire on request.
For details on scheduling guided tours please contact the Montserrat Tourist Board at tel (664) 491 2230/8730 or e-mail info@montserrattourism.ms.
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