When Christopher Columbus sighted Nevis in 1493 he called it Las Nieves, Spanish for “snow,” because of the cloud forest shrouding Nevis’ peak. Today that same volcanic mountain dominates the tiny island and all its treasures. Mineral hot springs made it famous as a spa in the 18th century and the sugar-cane estates that grew up at the same time now mingle with gingerbread cottages making up most of the island’s architecture. The Arawak and Carib Indians left more than two dozen archaeological sites marked with piles of shells, pottery and old tools to prove their existence.

Swimming, horseback riding, windsurfing, snorkeling, diving, or kicking back with a good book under a palm tree are favored pastimes. Nevis is for relaxing, no rushing allowed. Farmers ride donkeys along the narrow coastal road and friendly games of cricket convene in the capital of Charlestown.. A sleepy island that has remained relatively unspoiled through the years, Nevis and its year round average temperature of 79 degrees is the Shangri-la of the Caribbean.

For more information go to: www.nevisisland.com or www.nevis1.com.