Since 1995, an increase in seismic activity on Montserrat has caused most of the southern portion of this Caribbean island to be evacuated. The island’s capital, Plymouth, was buried under volcanic ash and rock following an eruption of the Soufriere Hills volcano in 1997. The Northern Zone, however, remains open and visitors often hear residents say the phrase, "Montserrat, still home, still nice."
After a trip to Rendezvous Bay, with its lush green landscape and black-sand beaches, travelers will understand why Montserrat is called the "Emerald Island of the Caribbean." Hikers can take advantage of a number of trails throughout the Northern Zone. The Silver Hills Trail begins at Drummonds and loops through dry forest and open fields before returning. The Silver Hills area is the site of an extinct volcano and is now home to many types of birds, including the mangrove Cuckoo, the Pearly-eyed Thrasher, and the Red-billed Tropicbird. Hikers on the Centre Hills Trail will pass through a rain forest and may see other unique birds such as the rare Forest Thrush, the endangered Montserrat Oriole, and the rare Bridled Quail Dove as well as regional amphibians and reptiles.
To explore some of Montserrat’s heritage, hike "The Cot." This trail leads hikers through dense vegetation to an old banana plantation. Trekking further, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding villages, including some located within the Exclusion Zone. For a relaxing afternoon amidst a riparian rainforest, visit Runaway Ghaut. With picnic tables, a mini-trail, and small waterfalls, this is a wonderful location to visit over and over. In fact, legend holds that those who drink from the fountain at Runaway Ghaut will be destined to return to Montserrat. For more information about the island’s trails, contact the Montserrat Forest Rangers who can help travelers organize a variety of exciting treks.
Visitors who are interested in learning more about the island’s volcanoes should stop at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory. This facility, which monitors the volcano on a 24-hour basis, offers educational talks to its guests. The staff at the Observatory is also willing to organize two-day field trips in order to allow students and amateur geologists the opportunity to examine volcanic landforms and observe the latest volcanic monitoring techniques. The Observatory is located within sight of both the volcano and the remains of the abandoned city of Plymouth.
A good way to explore the villages and landmarks of Montserrat is by arranging a sightseeing tour. A number of operators provide custom island tours by car or bus. Two exciting sights to see while visiting the island are Galway's Soufriere and Chances Peak. A volcanic crater that spouts gasses and steam, Galway's Soufriere has many colorful mineral deposits on its walls. At an elevation of 1,700 feet, this is also a challenging destination for mountain bikers. Even higher, however is Chances Peak. Montserrat’s highest peak is over 3,000 feet high. The view from its peak offers visitors spectacular views of several nearby Caribbean islands.
Island residents celebrate several holidays each year. In honor of Montserrat’s Irish heritage, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated by the wearing of the green and the singing of Irish songs. On June 14, a parade of the island’s uniformed troops marks the observance of Queen Elizabeth’s official birthday. One of the most festive celebrations, however, is held on the first Monday in August. Emancipation Day, commemorating the freeing of the island’s slaves, is celebrated with barbecues and sports competitions.
