St. Kitts: History and Panoramas Meet At Brimstone Hill Fortress

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Perched on a steep hillside overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Brimstone Hill Fortress is one of those great places that can appeal to many sorts of travelers.

For history buffs and families, a visit to Brimstone Hill should not be missed; however, photographers should also take note of this national park. Because of its strategic location, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has some of the best and mostly easily accessible views on the island, making it a gold mine for photographers looking for landscape and panorama photos. Better yet, because the fort has steeped layers, there are a plethora of opportunities to get unique shots with a minimal amount of exploration.

Brimstone Hill Fortress’ tumultuous history dates back to 1690 when the first cannon was mounted on Brimstone Hill by the British. The colonial power saw the hill’s potential as a place of defense as well as a strategic point to help them recapture Fort Charles, which was then held by the French.

In 1782, everything came to a head as European and American powers fought for control of the Caribbean sugar islands. That year 8,000 French soldiers attacked the island and overtook the fort on Feb. 12 by conquering about 1,000 British defenders and slaves. A year later, however, the French returned the island to the British under the Treaty of Versailles; the fort was abandoned in 1825.

Brimstone Hill Fortress is well preserved and the national park provides a lot of information, including a detailed short film, about the fort’s background and role in the development of the island. Inside the echoing court, rooms are marked with there former use, while others are being restored. The spaces that are finished give a unique insight into each room, showcasing its purpose during the fort’s operation.

Know before you go:

-The Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is open everyday (except Christmas and Good Friday) from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

-Admission is $8 for adults and $4 for children.

-The fort is about 20 minutes by car from the St. Kitts Marriott Resort from which a tour or taxi can be set up for you. In fact, if you are planning a trip to the resort, you may want to check out this fantastic adventure package that includes a tour to Brimstone Hill Fortress among other places.

My trip to Brimstone Hill Fortress was sponsored by St. Kitts Marriott Resort; however, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.</>

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*Please remember all photos on this website, unless otherwise noted, are copyrighted and property of Beers and Beans Travel Website, Nariko’ s Nest Weddings & Bethany Salvon. Please do not use them without my permission. If you do want to use one of them please contact me first because I do love to share and I would be flattered. Thanks!