DHTA HIKEFEST
May 2009, is the month to be in Dominica, for both HikeFest and EcoFest
Beginning on Saturday May 2nd, 2009, The DHTA have partnered with Rosalie Forest Eco Lodge for HikeFest and EcoFest.
The hike will take in the breathtaking ancient Chemin de letang Trail, passing through the Morne Trois Pitons National Park world heritage site, via the freshwater Lake and finishing in the afternoon at The International EcoFest at Rosalie Forest Eco Lodge.
This hike is mainly downhill to Rosalie Forest Eco-Lodge from Freshwater Lake (interior to east coast). It will take most participants about 2 1/2 - 3 hours to complete. It passes through part of Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The views to the east coast are beautiful - you can see the Atlantic surf in the distance but the route is mainly in the forest. You can view the surrounding mountains too. People used to take this route from the east coast via Grand Fond to Laudat and then on to Roseau for the market. Rosalie Forest Eco-Lodge is about a half hour further below Grand Fond. The property is tranquil and harmonious with nature in all respects. It is surrounded by 3 rivers. There are numerous river pools for a revitalizing dip after the hike. Refreshments are available for an additional cost on the premises.
Hikers will get to experience the oldest traditional trade trail in dominica, taking in stunning vistas. There is even a point where you can see both the dramatic Atlantic Ocean and the cool calm Caribbean waters, at the same moment; just turn your head.
The destination for the day is the Dominica International EcoFest 2009, this year being held here in Dominica at the award winning Rosaluie Forest Eco Lodge.
EcoFest is an event for all the family with an action packed programme of exciting actvities.
Click here to visit the EcoFest 2009 website.
The following Saturday,Please contact the DHTA office for more information.
May 9th
The Morne Vert Loop from Soufriere. Finish at Soufriere Sulphur Springs. See historic Bois Cotellete. A pleasant four hour outing.
This hike, called the Morne Vert loop is located near the south coast of the island and the Soufriere Sulphur Springs. There is an abundance of geological, as well as cultural history in this area. It is also near the location where officials are examining geo-thermal energy possibilities. The nearby Bois Cotellete plantation is one of the oldest estates on the island. It dates back to 1700's.The ruins are still there. Also, part of this trail by the Palmiste Estate is part of an ancient track which was used by Kalinago Indians. Tete Morne has lovely views down to Soufriere village. From the opposite side, you can see much of the south coast of Dominica - Grand Bay, etc. The loop is completed upon reaching the Soufriere Sulphur Springs Eco- Site. There are a number of natural and man-made hot pools/mini-waterfalls in this eco- site. Indulge in a hot natural mineral bath after the hike of about 4 hours. There is an interpretive centre at the site which has informative panels that provide very good geological, historical and cultural explanations of the area.
Note: This hike has been designated an intermediate level of difficulty. The terrain is varied and can be quite steep in spots. Climate can be very hot and dry in this location. The smell of sulphur can be strong at times in some areas on the route.
Refreshments will be available at the Soufriere Sulphur Springs after the hike for an additional cost.
May 23rd:
Morne Anglais near Giraudel. Take in spectacular panoramic views at the peak. A four hour loop for most.
The hike to the peak of Morne Anglais is above the village of Giraudel. It is a little distance inland and south of Roseau. There are lovely views of the Roseau Valley up to Laudat to the north and Bellevue Chopin to the south and Roseau at certain points along the way. The ultimate reward is the spectacular view at the top! You can see practically all of Dominica and beyond from there (if it is a clear day!) - including Les Saintes, Guadeloupe, Martinique. Its elevation is 3,683 ft. at the top. It is one of the higher mountains in Dominica. The upper part of the mountain is part of Morne Trois Pitons National Park
Note: It is very steep in parts, especially closer to the peak. There are some narrow sections near precipices too. The rocks can be slippery. There may be recent landslides to traverse. It is suggested as a hike with an intermediate level of difficulty.
Refreshments will be available for an additional charge upon completion of the hike at Giraudel.
Special offer:
Do 1 hike for $40EC
Do 2 hikes for $70EC
or
Do all three and pay only $100EC!
Includes: water; transportation to/from site; cap or visor.
Emergency trained personnel on each hike.
Pre-registration at least one day prior is required at the DHTA OFFICE:
440-3430;dhta@cwdom.dm
Meet at the DHTA Office, 17 Castle Street, Roseau (opposite DOMLEC) at 6:30 a.m. on hike days.