Nelson’s Dockyard National Park
Developed as a base for the British Navy during the great age of sail and expanded by Admiral Horatio Nelson, this is the only functioning Georgian dockyard in the world. Completely restored to its former glory, there’s a busy market place near the water to explore, hotels, bars, galleries and a museum.
Shirley Heights
Above English Harbour is Shirley Heights, a former colonial observation post. The view from here is breath-taking, extending across the Caribbean and out to Montserrat and Guadeloupe. On Sunday evenings, this is definitely the place to be with a barbecue, live music and plenty of rum punch!
Fig Tree Drive
This is Antigua’s most picturesque drive – stretching from the low central plain of the island up into the ancient volcanic hills of the Parish of Saint Mary in the southwest. Its bumpy road passes through lush vegetation and rainforest and rises to the steep farmlands around Fig Tree Hill before descending once again to the coastline. Along the way you’ll pass banana, mango and coconut groves, old sugar mills and quaint churches.
Devil’s Bridge
Devil’s Bridge – a large, natural limestone arch can be found on the shoreline of Indian Town Point and is one of Antigua’s most spectacular sights. At high tide, the Atlantic waves force enormous geysers of water through boreholes in the rocks near the bridge – so cameras at the ready for some great photos!
Museum of Antigua and Barbuda
Located in St John’s, this charming museum tells the story of Antigua and Barbuda (Antigua’s sister island) from its geological birth to its political independence and offers a cool mid-day respite from the sun. There’s a variety of fascinating objects and exhibits to enjoy including world-famous cricket player, Viv Richard’s bat and a life-size replica of an Arawak dwelling – the ancient people that inhabited the island until around 1100 AD.
St John’s
St John’s is Antigua’s capital city and is dominated bythe magnificent white baroque towers of St John’s Cathedral. A lively hub for shopping and dining, there is also a museum to explore, vibrant farmers markets on Fridays and Saturdays, Fort Barrington and Fort James– both built in the 17th century, the exotic Botanical Gardens and Harmony Hall displaying the work of Caribbean artists.
English Harbour
This graceful and evocative historic district is focused on the 15 square miles of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park. There are craft shops, restaurants, 2 restored 18th century hotels; the Admiral Inn and the Copper & Lumber Store Hotel for some much needed refreshment. The Admiral’s Museum is packed with ship models, a model of English Harbour and silver regatta trophies.
Falmouth Harbour
Surrounded by abandoned sugar mills, the small village of Falmouth sits in a large horse-shoe shaped bay and is just a short walk from English Harbour. This is where many of Antigua’s annual events are held including Antigua Sailing Week and Antigua’s Charter Yacht Meeting. Climb Monk’s Hill for stunning views, explore 17th century St Paul’s Church and relax at the marina.
All Saints
This is the largest village on Antigua and located almost in the centre of the island – great to visit if you fancy a break from the beach! It is world-famous for the production of handmade pottery from near-by Sea View Farm which makes excellent souvenirs or presents for folks back home. It is also close to Betty’s Hope, Antigua’s first sugar plantation, which is slowly being restored to its former glory.
Parham
Antigua’s oldest city and once the capital, Parham in the north-east is home to famous landmark, St Peter’s Church. First built in 1711 and restored several times since, this octagonal church is considered to be the finest in the West Indies and was the first building on the island to receive electricity! The views from Parham Harbour are also well worth admiring.
The best of the beaches
Half Moon Bay
A 5 minute drive from Freetown Village on the south-east coast of Antigua is beautiful Half Moon Bay with its fine white sands that stretch for almost a mile and wonderful cooling breezes. Atlantic surf is restrained by a coral reef which allows for excellent snorkelling close to shore and windsurfing further out. Although popular, you can always find your own private place to relax.
Dickenson Bay
In the main resort area of Antigua is Dickenson Bay, a stunning stretch of beach with white sands and calm turquoise waters that are generally safe for families. A long coral reef lies just off-shore plus several bars and restaurants. Water sport fans will be kept more than happy with every type of activity available from snorkelling and surfing to jet-skiing.
Long Bay
With its clear, calm waters, Long Bay is another great choice for families or timid swimmers. There is a wonderful barrier reef just yards from the sand waiting to be explored, in fact, when the tide is out, you can nearly walk out to the reef, an unforgettable experience, although be careful not to touch the delicate marine life!
Pigeon Point
This calm, beautiful cove is the epitome of paradise! Pigeon Point boasts clean, white sand and clear blue waters with gently graduating depths – perfect for families with small children. Located just 5 minutes from English Harbour on the south-east coast, it does get busy here, but with good reason! The views from the beach are gorgeous and there’s a restaurant for lunch and cocktails.
About the Author: Virgin Holidays has been arranging holidays since 1985 and are the largest, most successful transatlantic tour operator, and market leader for travel to the USA and the Caribbean. For a great Antigua deals on Jolly Beach Antigua and Galley Bay Antigua, visit www.virginholidays.co.uk
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