Montserrat – The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean

Our reason for buying our winter home in Montserrat is a story in itself. Our visit to the Emerald Isle was peaceful and secure. From the moment we landed, the island was inviting and by the time we left, three weeks later, we felt like family. We always felt safe no matter what side of the island we visited. The water from the tap is clean and drinkable and there’s plenty of it. The weather is perfect and the ocean waters are warm. Best of all, you won’t find corporate chains or stop lights anywhere. Each day was a new experience and adventure all its own. Although we did not get to experience everything Montserrat has to offer, we want to share with you our favorites to date:

MVO – Spectacular views of the volcano can be seen at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory in nearby Salem. Inside the observatory you’ll find information and films about the eruptions. This is a must see while on the island.

Boat Tours of Plymouth – The only way to see the devastation caused by the volcano in Plymouth is by boat. Troy and Mel at the Green Monkey Dive Shop afford you this opportunity. Tours are available daily. Contact them directly to make arrangements to see this modern day Pompeii right here in Montserrat.

Our favorite Eating Places (call for hours of operation):

• Gourmet Gardens is a short walk from the Villa. Mariet will treat you like family with a Dutch flair to her dinner specials.
• Danny Sweeney of Jumping Jack’s always has his fresh catch of the day and his wife’s pastries are the best we’ve tasted.
• John Ponte’s Beach View is the place to be on Sunday afternoons for the best in BBQ chicken or ribs.
• Tina’s Restaurant not only has great local food, but great pizzas as well.
• The Attic is a 10-minute walk from the Villa. For breakfast or lunch, it’s worth the walk.
• Ziggy’s on Mahogany Drive in Woodlands is worth the drive up into the hillsides. Ziggy’s makes for a romantic evening at its finest! (reservations required)

Our favorite shopping spots:

• Ram’s Market in Salem is a 3-minute drive from the villa, where you can find everything you need from fruit & vegetables to wine, beer and spirits all at reasonable prices.
• Ashock’s Market and Angelo’s Market are two favorites in the village of Brades on the north end of the island.
• Local farmers sell their fresh picked produce on Thursdays & Fridays across from Ram’s Market and at Dessert Storm in Salem.
• Luv’s Cotton Store in Salem has hand woven clothing that is worth the price!
• The Airport houses two souvenir shops that will supply everything you need for gifts back home.

Our favorite Watering Holes:

• Poolside at Barefoot Villa
• The Green Monkey Dive Shop Bar –Our favorite island drinks – Rum Punch and Horny Monkey can be sipped on the outdoor deck overlooking Little Bay.
• The Royal Palm – high atop the hillsides in the town of woodlands off Mahogany Drive you’ll find an upscale bar and restaurant that serves great wine and drinks with a beautiful view.

Our favorite Swimming Places:

• The pool at Barefoot Villa
• Rendezvous Bay – The only white sand beach on the island is accessible only by boat, kayak or hiking. Pack your picnic lunch and enjoy an afternoon of snorkeling and swimming.
• Woodland’s Beach offers sunshine and privacy and is a short 7-minute ride from the villa.
• Morning sun can be found at Little Bay Beach on the north side of the island near the Green Monkey.
• Most beaches have access to a changing room and showers. Oftentimes you’ll be the only one on the beach!

Hiking Trails:

• A great hike to a great beach - from the north side of Little Bay hike over the hillsides to Rendezvous Bay Beach. Any of the locals at Little Bay can direct you to the trail’s entrance.
• The Montserrat National Trust will help you find all the hiking trails on the island as well contacts to the hiking club that meets weekly.
• Pack a bag if you hike along many of the trails throughout the island. Often times you’ll come across abandoned fruit trees ready to harvest.

Water Activities on Montserrat: Contact our good friends, Troy and Mel at The Green Monkey Dive Shop. They can accommodate all your water needs for diving, snorkeling, kayaking and boat tours of Plymouth. You’ll find they are a wealth of information and entertainment.

Contact information: info@barefoot-villa.com