VISIT SABA!
Visiting Saba is like traveling to a land barely touched by time. It wasn’t until the mid-1930s, in fact, that residents built the island’s first road. This winding thoroughfare is an attraction in itself. Lined with spectacular stone walls, it twists and turns its way up the mountainside. Saba may be tiny, but this special municipality of The Netherlands offers much to ecotourists: rocky cliffs, lush green forests and mountains that seem to rise out of the ocean. At the top of Mount Scenery, a nonactive volcano, you can see for miles on a clear day. If it’s overcast, you’ll find yourself caught up in the vapor of the clouds.
The climb up Mount Scenery is something of a challenge. You must hike through a tropical rain forest and up hand-carved stone steps. But the welcome distraction of views, birds, plants and other wildlife makes this hike well worth the effort. Saba also boasts some of the best diving in the region. Strict regulations on fishing and diving mean that you’re able to encounter a wide variety of sea life. Turtles and lobsters are regular visitors to this spectacular underwater haven, and if you’re lucky, you may get to spot a whale or two.
If you are more into the history of the island, you’ll enjoy making your way through charming villages, past picturesque homes with red roofs and well-tended gardens. Along the way, you will meet up with a variety of friendly locals who will be happy to tell you all about their distinctive home.
In the era when European powers competed for the treasures of the Spanish main, Sabas steep shores worked as a deterrent for many to enter or conquer the island, making it keep a distinct identity. Amongst the botched attempts was that of pirate Pinel of Pinel island fame.
Journey to Saba aboard Edge, a high-speed ferry operated by Aqua Mania Adventures. You can book your 90-minute trip from Simpson Bay or online before you arrive. Packages include taxi tours around the island with lunch, hiking excursions with lunch and transfers, and guided adventures with local guides. With regularly scheduled service to Saba, the high-speed ferry offers competitive prices and a shuttle service.
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