myTobago – your questions, review and comment about Tobago

what do you do?

We are going out to Tobago in December and this will be trip 8 or 9 (I think!) - I've lost count!

So, as a relatively experienced Tobago-phile, I wanted to see what the even more experienced Tobago-philes would recommend we do!

I think we've done most of the 'obvious' stuff like Rainforest, Little Tobago, round the Island, birding, snorkelling, No-man's Land and the beach BBQ, boat trips, Argyle Falls, etc etc....but are there gems out there that we haven't experienced or are there any suggestions of things that you have enjoyed that we might too?

To be honest, just being there is good enough for me (and yes, I am counting down!) but I would be fascinated to see what you would all recommend!

Thanks in advance!

Helen,how about an off the road trip?You get to experience some magnificent views and it gives some concept of what the early settlers and slaves achieved in cutting tracks and roads.
David.(10 weeks and 2days )
Ps have a look at some photos of off the road with Ali-Baba at the link below

Here are a few things to consider.

Pirate's Bay is a definite "must go". Just go.

You're not a Tobago expert until you've spent some time pulling in one of those long fishing nets (seine) from shore. Try some of the smaller fishing villages up the north coast (Parlatuvier, Bloody Bay etc), preferrably in the morning. It's a real team effort and the camaraderie with the locals is priceless! Oh, you had better be in reasonable physical condition for this one.

There are some really good beachcombing beaches on the Atlantic side of the island, if beachcombing appeals to you. If not then bring a few cold Caribs along and watch someone else do it (-: The breezes on the Atlantic side are always refreshing.

There's a high spot on a road in the Patience Hill / Signal Hill area that allows you to see the entire southern tip of the island. My neighbor and I came across it by chance last year. The view is breathtaking! Unfortunately I can't remember the name of the road or the exact location of the lookout, but if you spend a few minutes driving around that area I'm sure you will find it. Bring your camera!

Hi Bryan

You are so right about Pirate's Bay. As a matter of interest, this site exists because of Pirate's Bay. That's where I fell in love with Tobago. 50 years ago, we used to spend our summer holidays on one of two cottages on Charlotteville beach. Pirate's Bay effectively belonged to the local plantation owners which totally surround the bay and all of Charlotteville. The only way to get there in those days was by boat. I used to row over there with my sister and spend the days snorkelling and swimming. Needless to say, there were no other visitors in those days.

The lookout you are talking about is almost certainly the Dunvegan Road which runs between Carnbee and Patience Hill. The best views of south-west Tobago (and Trinidad) by far. Its a little difficult to explain to readers how to find it. Possibly the easiest way is to start on the main road through Carnbee. From the Buccoo Road (that would take your to Moorshead Gourmet Foods and the Me-Shells junction with Shirvan Road) junction with the main Auchenskeoch-Buccoo-Bay Road (Buccoo to Lambeau) turn right towards Scarborough (as if heading for Penny Savers, Carbee). Then, with 25m take the first turning left. Continue up this road through a residential area, following it through a right-left S-bend. After that it keeps climbing uphill. You can't miss the views behind you. As a matter of interest, you can get to the Dunvegan Road from most of the left turning in Carnbee, right down to just before the gas station. Just keep heading up hill.

Hi all,

I know the view(s!) you're talking about Steve, but I think Bryan's 'take' is far more simple... I think he's talking about taking the left turn at the traffic lights on the main road (Claude Noel Highway / Wilson Road) that goes up towards Signal Hill (where the new library is!). When you get to the top of the hill... just turn the car 'round, and don't forget to breathe!!! You're looking out towards Tobago Plantations and as far down as the airport. It really is quite spectacular. There's another view on a par with that, from the top of Montgomery Road towards Bethel. From the Auchenskeoch Road (the one you mentioned!), turn left at the basketball courts, follow the road up to the top of the hill (which joins the road you're talking about through Grange, if I follow you correctly!). When you get to the crossroads (Church on one side, TT Post / minimart on right on opposite side!), just turn the car 'round again! The entire south end of the island is visible, from Buccoo Reef to Cove, with Trinidad in the background (on a clear day, anyway!). Pretty breathtaking!

Lisa.

Hi Helena,

have you ever visited the art museum of Luise Kimme?
Her wooden sculptures portraying Tobagonian people are really nice:

http://www.luisekimme.com/

Greetings,

Roland

I wonder if I'm starting to see something developping with this very interesting and informative thread. I'm thinking it could be the start of a new section for the site. A section dedicated to attractions that are off the beaten path, or that don't fit into the normal descriptions of tourist attractions.......what about it Steve?

Hi Bryan

Good idea - but lets see how this thread develops.

Hi all and thanks for the responses thus far!

Roland, I like your idea - it is one of those things that I meant to do...but never got around to because I think the opening times were pretty restricted. I will see if I can get over there in December.

Those view points sound good too, so I will be sure to get exploring off some of the beaten paths we're used to.

I used to love going to the Fort behind the hospital in Scarborough, but after Hurricane Ivan the tree got a bit hacked and when we were last there, there was a lot of 'restoration' work going on in the buildings which left a lot to be desired. It somehow seems to have taken the soul out of the place.

Does anyone happen to know if the Hillsborough dam/reservoir is still closed to birders? I always fancied that too, but think we missed the chance before permits etc were required.

Thanks!

Helena

Hello Tobago Lovers,

Ten years ago my dream came true. I came to to live in Tobago and started to operate my goatfarm on the Orange Hill Estate. Orange Hill Nature Ranch is an former Sugar Estate. You can see the old sugar factory, the tower in the bush and of course my lovely goats.

Visitors are most welcome.


Josefa Patience
Orange Hill Nature Ranch

Hello Helena

Yes, Hillsborough is still closed to the public. Somebody said it was for fear of a terrorist attack - the fear of someone poisoning the water. This is somewhat ludicrous so I can't believe it true - particularly as many local guides will take you along trails in the surrounding territory that bring you out to the dam anyway.

Hello Josefa

Welcome aboard.

I am going to email you to get more info - I'll add you goat farm to our interactive map markers as a sightseeing attraction so people can see where you are. My compliments on your goat cheese - it is fabulous!

I don't know why I forgot this one...the Mot Mot trail. Starts near the Arnos Vale resort and winds its way to Culloden, near the Footprints eco resort. There's a nice beach and refreshments at both end.

Hired a car today - one of my aims was to visit Pirate's Bay. I got to Charlotteville but my (written) guide stated a half mile walk on an unmade road and 140 steps. Unfortunately there's no way my OH would attempt this so Ihad to leave it. Found the views over the bottom end of the island, though. Breathtaking!