Saint John Capisterre Parish: A Hidden Gem in Saint Kitts

Saint John Capisterre Parish, nestled on the northern coast of Saint Kitts and Nevis, is a captivating blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and vibrant community life. As the second-largest parish on Saint Kitts, it offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors and locals alike.

A Land of Dramatic Landscapes

• Coastal Wonders:
  • The parish boasts a stunning 5-mile coastline, featuring black volcanic sand beaches that are both impressive and varied.
  • Dieppe Bay Beach, protected by offshore reefs, provides a safe natural harbor and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
  • Parson’s Beach and Sandy Bay, exposed to the Atlantic, offer a more rugged and adventurous experience, with Sandy Bay growing in popularity with surfers.
  • Black Rocks: The southern coast is home to the iconic Black Rocks, metamorphic rock formations resulting from Mount Liamuiga’s last volcanic eruption. These unique formations, sculpted by waves over centuries, create grottoes, pools, and dramatic projections.
• Mount Liamuiga’s Majesty:
  • The parish’s interior is dominated by Mount Liamuiga, the tallest peak in the Leeward Islands.
  • The mountain’s slopes are covered with lush tropical forests, transitioning to farmland and former sugar cane estates below 1,000 feet.
  • The fertile land makes this parish a main producer of tropical fruits.

Towns and Villages: A Glimpse into Local Life

• Dieppe Bay Town:
  • The parish capital and the first French settlement on the island, Dieppe Bay Town, is a historic port town.
• Saddler’s:
  • The largest town in the parish, Saddler’s, with a population of approximately 2,000, functions as a secondary parish capital.
• Tabernacle:
  • The second-largest settlement, Tabernacle, was founded by emancipated slaves in the late 19th century.
• Other Settlements:
  • Parson’s Ground Village, Pogson Village, Lynch’s Village, Harris’ Village, and Belle Vue add to the parish’s diverse community landscape.

Economy and Tourism: A Blend of Tradition and Growth

• Agriculture:
  • Agriculture remains the primary employer, with the fertile slopes of Mount Liamuiga supporting the cultivation of tropical fruits like mango, banana, and avocado.
• Tourism:
  • The Golden Lemon Hotel in Dieppe Bay is a significant employer and a popular destination for luxury travelers.
  • Dieppe Bay’s reefs attract snorkelers, while Sandy Bay draws surfers.
  • Black rocks is an adventurous attraction.
  • Beaumont Park Race Track offers horse and greyhound racing, and gambling.
• Port of Dieppe Bay:
  • Historically a bustling international port, Dieppe Bay now serves as a base for the coast guard and local fishing vessels.

Community Festivals: Celebrating Local Culture

• Festival de Capisterre:
  • Held in mid-September, this festival celebrates the region’s French heritage and includes the villages of Newton Ground, Saint Paul Capisterre, Dieppe, and Parson’s.
• Saddlefest:
  • A vibrant community festival in Saddler’s, featuring calypso shows, beauty pageants, and street jam sessions.
• Festab:
  • Tabernacle’s community festival, offering similar activities to Saddlefest with its own unique local charm.

Future Developments: Embracing Progress

• Beaumont Heights Villas:
  • A high-end housing development surrounding Beaumont Park.
• Saddle Hill Adventure Park:
  • A planned attraction designed to enhance tourism and recreational activities.

Conclusion

Saint John Capisterre Parish offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from its stunning natural landscapes and historical landmarks to its vibrant community festivals and promising future developments. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this parish is a must-visit destination in Saint Kitts and Nevis.