Montserrat in a Day: Things to see & do + Interactive Map
- Truvhana
- Oct 19, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 16
Today, I’m sharing the ultimate one-day itinerary for Montserrat. Whether you’re hopping over from Nevis like I did or coming from farther away, this itinerary will help you squeeze the best out of a day on this island. I did this trip with a few friends, and we wanted to make the most of every second, so I’m giving you our exact playbook! From a little throwback adventure with a paper map (yep, you read that right) to stunning views and an unforgettable beach lunch, this is your perfect Montserrat day trip guide.
Table of Contents
Arrival & Getting Around
Once you arrive, rent a vehicle for the day. We rented ours for just XCD $160/ USD $60, gas included. Big thanks to Simon from Chambers Best Choice Services Ltd he was reliable, on time, and flexible (and trust me, after trying to reach a few other operators, he was a lifesaver). Renting a car is worth it for the freedom to explore this island at your own pace.
Start with a Hearty Breakfast
(Or at least try to)
We tried to kick off the morning at Grand Phoenix Restaurant and Bar for some chicken and waffles, but sadly, the boat from Nevis was running late, and we missed breakfast (it ends at 11:00 a.m., so don’t be us). Honestly, we were a bit disappointed, but we didn’t let it ruin our day, we had a lot more fun waiting for us!
Let the Adventure Begin: A Sightseeing Tour with a Twist!
Now, let me tell you how I made our sightseeing extra fun. We decided not to use our phones and tried to navigate the island old-school style, with a printed map and pencil! Each of us had a role: one person was on map duty, another had Google Maps as backup, and our driver stayed ready for any unexpected turns Montserrat had in store. To make it even more interesting, I threw in some homemade trivia questions at each stop, testing our knowledge of Montserrat's unique charm. Fun fact: Did you know the island has fewer than 5,000 residents? This treasure hunt-style adventure really set the tone for the day. Here’s how it went down:
First Stop: Montserrat National Trust
First on the list was the Montserrat National Trust. Unfortunately, it was closed since it was a Saturday, but we peeked through the gates to admire the beautiful flora. And, of course, we couldn’t resist snapping some photos with the iconic red phone booth, a classic!
Next Up: Runaway Ghaut
No Montserrat trip is complete without visiting Runaway Ghaut. Legend has it that if you drink from this natural spring, you’re destined to return to Montserrat. I took a sip here back in 2021 and, surprise, surprise, I came back in 2024! So, it works, take that sip!
Montserrat Volcano Observatory
You cannot leave Montserrat without seeing the Soufrière Hills Volcano. The Montserrat Volcano Observatory is the best spot to take in the breathtaking views of the volcano and learn about its history. The eruption in 1995 was devastating, but seeing the island’s recovery and resilience is truly inspiring. This was definitely one of the highlights of our day.
Garibaldi Hill Viewpoint
Next, we took on Garibaldi Hill, and let me tell you, it’s an adventure getting to the top, but so worth it! The panoramic views of the volcano and the abandoned city of Plymouth, buried under layers of ash, are hauntingly beautiful. It’s a reminder of the power of nature and the strength of the people who call Montserrat home.
Relax at Isle Bay Beach
After all that exploring, we were starving, so we headed straight to Isle Bay Beach for a late lunch. This place is all about those chilled vibes. The calm waters and the black sand beach were the perfect way to unwind after a busy day. We grabbed lunch at the beach bar; I had the most delicious burger, and let’s just say the only photo I took was of the empty plate!
Must-Have Explore Kit
Make sure you pack:
Bottled Water
Snacks
Sunglasses
Comfortable Shoes
Sunscreen
Cellphone (Portable) Charger
Hat
Make the Most of Montserrat in a Day!
Montserrat may be small, but it left a big impression on all of us. Sure, we got lost a few times, but every detour was worth it to explore this beautiful island. Whether you're in it for the history, the adventure, or just beach bliss, this one-day itinerary will cover all the bases.
And don’t forget to check out my full Montserrat Travel Guide for even more tips on what to see, do, and eat while you’re here.
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