Saint Paul Capisterre: Where History and Nature Converge

Saint Kitts and Nevis, a dual-island nation in the Caribbean, boasts a rich tapestry of parishes, each with its unique charm. Among these, Saint Paul Capisterre stands out as a testament to the island’s agricultural heritage and natural beauty. As the second smallest parish on St. Kitts and the third smallest in the federation, it offers a tranquil escape for those seeking an authentic Caribbean experience.

A Landscape of Contrasts: Coastlines and Rainforests

The parish of Saint Paul Capisterre presents a striking contrast between its rugged coastline and lush interior.

• Coastal Beauty: The shoreline is characterized by small, secluded bays with dark, volcanic sand beaches. Sheer cliffs rise dramatically from the water’s edge, creating a dramatic backdrop. The powerful Atlantic waves crash against the shore, making the area visually stunning. Due to the rough conditions, settlements are nestled inland, offering a peaceful retreat.
• Inland Lushness: The interior of Saint Paul Capisterre is a blend of gently sloping terrain, once dominated by sugar estates, now dotted with small farms. As you venture further inland, the landscape ascends towards the slopes of Mount Liamuiga, transforming into dense, tropical rainforests. The panoramic views from these elevated areas, including glimpses of neighboring islands like Statia, Saba, St. Barths, and St. Martin, are truly breathtaking, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Villages of Saint Paul Capisterre: A Glimpse into Local Life

The parish is home to several charming villages, each with its own story to tell:

• Saint Paul Capisterre Village (St. Paul’s): The parish capital, St. Paul’s, is a vibrant hub of local life. It holds historical significance as the birthplace of former national leader, Dr. Denzil Llewellyn Douglas, and the hometown of the nation’s first premier, Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw.
• Newton Ground: Another major village in the parish, Newton Ground, contributes to the area’s strong sense of community.
• Belmont Estate and Cranston Estate: These smaller villages, subsidiary to St. Paul’s and Newton Ground respectively, add to the parish’s unique character.

The Agricultural Heart of Saint Kitts

Saint Paul Capisterre is renowned for its agricultural prowess. The fertile volcanic soil, gentle terrain, and abundant rainfall create ideal conditions for farming.

• A Shift in Economy: Historically, the parish’s economy revolved around sugar cane cultivation. However, the closure of the sugar industry in 2005 led to significant unemployment.
• Diversification and Resilience: To address this challenge, land has been repurposed for the production of diverse agricultural products, providing new opportunities for former sugar workers.
• Tourism’s Role: Tourism also plays a vital role in the local economy. The Rawlin’s Plantation Inn, nestled in the parish’s interior, offers employment and showcases the area’s natural beauty. The inn also houses the studio and shop of British artist Kate Spencer. Belmont Estate is also a tourist location, home to the legend of “The Bull”, and the starting point for hikes.

Looking to the Future: Development and Growth

The parish is poised for future growth, with plans for a large hotel and villa complex on the foothills of Mount Liamuiga near St. Paul’s. This development aims to boost tourism and create employment opportunities, further enhancing the prosperity of Saint Paul Capisterre.

Experience Saint Paul Capisterre:

Saint Paul Capisterre offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and agricultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat, an adventure in nature, or a glimpse into local culture, this parish has something to offer everyone. Plan your visit and discover the hidden gems of Saint Kitts.