Nevis, Caribbean

From its beginnings as Dulcina, or 'Sweet Island' during the time of the island's first inhabitants, to Oualie, or 'land of beautiful waters' as named by the Carib Indians, Nevis has always been a paradise to those who lived there, and is like finding a pearl hidden in the Caribbean oyster for those who visit today. Christopher Columbus derived the present-day name of Nevis from his sighting of the island in 1493: the island's cloud-capped volcanic peak reminded him of snow, or 'nieves' in Spanish. Small and round, Nevis is about seven miles (11km) long and five miles (8km) wide, an unspoilt and serene island that is a delight for nature-lovers and for those seeking an escape from the stresses of the modern-day world. Its single volcanic peak rises 3,232ft (985m) above verdant rainforest filled with tropical flowers and animals, and the beaches and clear waters that surround the island provide the ideal holiday environment for swimming, sunbathing and underwater exploration. During the 18th century Nevis gained undreamt-of wealth from its sugar industry and became known as the Queen of the Caribbean sugar islands, with a social life that became as decadent as it was extravagant. Today, grand estate houses and once lavish hotels lie in ruins, and sugar plantations remain untouched as they have been since the decline of the most coveted trade in the Caribbean towards the end of the 18th century. A sad decline it might have been then, but the charm of its small towns, the genuine hospitality and friendliness of the people, and the laws controlling over-development and natural conservation, are attractions far more endearing to visitors today. Lavish manors have been preserved and rank among the best plantation inns in the Caribbean, and architectural gems and historical relics hold hours of exploration amid the natural splendour that covers the island. Today, Nevis has a reputation of elegant living, with one of the world's most exlusive resorts and spas, golf courses, a variety of restaurants and bars, and beautiful gardens and beaches. A vacation in Nevis is sure to recharge any traveller's batteries. Attractions Charlestown The unassuming capital of Nevis is one of the most charming towns in the Caribbean, with a small population and a tranquil atmosphere to match. Eighteenth and 19th century Georgian buildings remain from the colonial era, with ground floors of stone and wooden structures upstairs, a building custom that came about due to the destruction caused by the frequent earthquakes of the 1800s. Part of Charlestown's vivid history was the birth of Alexander Hamilton, the great American statesman, whose family estate home has been turned into a museum of Nevis history as well as Hamilton memorabilia. Charlestown is also the site of the Jewish cemetery, a reminder of the Sephardic Jews whose sought-after sugar processing techniques were responsible for the ultimate success and prosperity of the sugar industry on the island. Horatio Nelson Museum The museum contains the largest collection of Horatio Nelson memorabilia in the Americas, and is dedicated to the life of the Admiral, Britain's greatest naval hero who died in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Horatio Nelson visited Nevis in the late-18th century during his time based in nearby Antigua, and was where he courted and married Frances Nisbet in what is undoubtedly the island's most famous wedding yet. The displays offer a fascinating introduction to the life and times of Nelson, including photos of Nevis, his wedding, miniatures of his fleet, and other souvenirs of the island during his time. Pinney’s Beach One of the best beaches in the Caribbean, Pinney's Beach is the epitome of paradise with its fine white sands backed by palm trees and lapped by calm Caribbean waters. Lying within convenient distance of Charlestown, Pinney's Beach has a few casual restaurants and beach bars. The four-mile (6km) stretch of sand is never crowded and is backed by a beautiful lagoon; however, the water is not ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling as it can be murky. Oualie Beach Oualie (pronounced wah-lee), meaning 'beautiful waters', was the original name of the island of Nevis, and the pretty stretch of sand known as Oualie Beach lives up to this name very well. Located on the northern shore of the island, Oualie Beach boasts fine yellow sand and sheltered waters that are ideal for swimming. The area also makes a good base for a holiday on the island of Nevis, with the excellent Oualie Beach Resort providing top-class accommodation in the picturesque bay. Oualie Beach is home to some fun activities, with water taxis, scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing, mountain biking and windsurfing easily organised from its pleasant dock area. Events Culturama Culturama is a celebration of the African heritage of the inhabitants of St. Kitts and Nevis, and highlights of the festival include the Emancipation Day Rally, and a Freedom Concert featuring international artists.