Hiking in Barbados

Hilly but not mountainous, the northern interior and the east coast are ideal for hiking. The Arbib Heritage & Nature Trail (Speightstown, St. Peter. 246/426-2421), maintained by the Barbados National Trust, is actually two trails—one offers a rigorous hike through gullies and plantations to old ruins and remote north-country areas; the other is a shorter, easier walk through Speightstown's side streets and past an ancient church and chattel houses. Guided hikes take place on Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 9 AM (book by 3 PM the day before) and cost $7.50.

The Barbados National Trust (Wildey House, Wildey, St. Michael. 246/426-2421. www.hikebarbados.com) sponsors free walks, called Hike Barbados, year-round on Sunday from 6 AM to about 9 AM and from 3:30 PM to 6 PM; once a month, a moonlight hike substitutes for the afternoon hike and begins at 5:30 PM (bring a flashlight). Experienced guides group you with others of similar levels of ability. Stop & Stare hikes go 5 to 6 mi (8 to 10 km); Here & There, 8 to 10 mi (13 to 16 km); and Grin & Bear, 12 to 14 mi (19 to 23 km). Wear loose clothes, sensible shoes, sunscreen, and a hat, and bring your camera and a bottle of water. Routes and locations change, but each hike is a loop, finishing in the same spot where it began. Check local newspapers, call the Trust, or check online for the scheduled meeting place on a particular Sunday.