Climbing Mt. Scenery -Saba

There are times we all find ourselves lost in dreams of beautiful sun-kissed days on a pristine stretch of sand.  But maybe you’re more of a participant than a spectator.  Perhaps you long for more of an Eco-adventure when you travel.  Or maybe, like us, you just long to see if you still have it in you.  Follow along as we share a short tale about our climb up Mt. Scenery, the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Saba, a quaint island retreat located a short 12 minute flight from St. Maarten, is aptly named The Unspoiled Queen of The Caribbean.  We landed at the world’s shortest commercial runway, and were quickly whisked through the shoebox size terminal.  As we exited towards our awaiting taxi, we saw our prey looming overhead.

 

Our affable driver dropped us off in the small village of Windwardside to get our bearings, and to pick up our rental “car”.  It was early and the shops were just opening, so we figured no time better than the present to get our climb underway.  With no clear direction as to where to begin, we headed off down the street, seeking adventure.  We suspected we may have stumbled upon the trail head, as we rounded the bend in the road, and encountered this small sign in a clearing amidst the overgrowth.

With the phrase “No Time Like the Present” fresh on our lips, we boldly marched off and began our ascent of the 1,064 steps.  “One… Two… Three…”  With a terse backward glance from my wife and climbing partner, I knew I should probably just close my mouth and keep climbing.  The views even from the lower elevations were quite serene and breathtaking.  We marched on with great anticipation.

The fauna and overgrowth teemed with life.  Climbing upward we pierced the cloud bank and an eerie fog enveloped us.  At times you even went through periods of descent, while still on your way upward!

 

At one point I was quite sure we passed Frodo, and Bilbo Baggins!  Bilbo’s words rang loudly in my ears “Also I should like to know about risks… What am I going to get out of it, and am I going to come back alive?”

 

The views from the summit were stunning and surreal.  Clearly this was something we would not soon see in our flatland mid-western existence

 

 

In the final analysis, the descent was far and away the most treacherous part of the climb.  Heavy dew, and a mossy covering made the hand-hewn treads a true test for your footing.

We concluded our trip with a stop in Scout’s Place for a quick lunch and some cool drinks.  The rewards at the end make the toil all worthwhile.  Having conquered our stated goals, we now even have the certificate to prove it.  So for a truly unique Caribbean adventure, we highly recommend a climb up Mt. Scenery.  It really is deserving of it’s name!

Live the Life,
JVbytheSea

 

 

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