Background

Monk's Hill: Antigua's Historic Overlook

Hike to Antigua's Monk's Hill for panoramic views, explore historic Fort George ruins, and immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty.

4.7

Monk's Hill, a mountain peak overlooking Falmouth Harbour in Antigua, offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Historically significant as a strategic lookout point and site of Great Fort George, it provided refuge against invasions. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic vistas of the coastline and Caribbean Sea.

A brief summary to Monk's Hill

  • AG

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the summit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven in some areas.
  • Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views of Falmouth Harbour.
  • Respect the natural environment by not leaving litter and staying on the marked paths.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Falmouth or English Harbour, taxis are readily available. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A typical fare to the base of Monk's Hill ranges from $6 to $31 USD, depending on the distance. The driver will drop you off at the base of Monk's Hill, from where you can walk up the path to the peak. Tipping your driver around 10-15% is expected.

  • Walking

    If you are near the base of Monk's Hill, you can hike up. The trail is well-marked but can be steep in parts, so wear appropriate footwear. Starting from the dirt path leading from the main road, it takes about 30-45 minutes to reach the summit, depending on your pace. Ensure you bring water and sun protection, as it can get hot during the day.

Unlock the Best of Monk's Hill

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Monk's Hill

Perched above Falmouth Harbour, Monk's Hill is a captivating mountain peak with stunning vistas and a serene atmosphere. This natural gem reveals the beauty of Antigua's coastline and the Caribbean Sea, offering tranquility and sweeping views. The gentle breeze and rustling leaves create an inviting ambiance, ideal for relaxation and photography. Historically, Monk's Hill, also known as Fort George, was a strategic lookout point. Construction of Great Fort George began in 1689, serving as a refuge for the island's inhabitants in case of French or Carib invasions. The fort was continuously occupied until the 1920s. Although military engineers considered it poorly constructed, it functioned as a key signal station connecting English and Falmouth Harbours. A timekeeper stationed there dropped a black ball at noon daily, signaling the time for the island. The hike to the summit is relatively easy, taking about 30-45 minutes. The trail is well-marked but can be steep in parts, so wear appropriate footwear. The landscape combines tropical forest and dry scrub desert, with cacti dotting the terrain. The trail leads past the remains of a stone gatehouse to the peak. Today, the ruins of Great Fort George provide some of the best views of the entire island.

Popular Experiences near Monk's Hill

Popular Hotels near Monk's Hill

Select Currency