Discover the Historic Bushiribana Gold Smelter
Explore the historic Bushiribana Gold Smelter, a testament to Aruba's gold mining history, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
A brief summary to Bushiribana Gold Smelter
- H23F+CHV, Noord, AW
The Bushiribana Gold Smelter is a captivating historical site located on the rugged north coast of Aruba. Built in the 19th century, this smelter was vital to the island's gold mining industry during its peak. Today, the crumbling ruins speak to a bygone era, inviting visitors to explore the remnants of the stone structure amidst the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The site is marked by striking contrasts—between the dark, weathered stone of the smelter and the vibrant blue of the Caribbean Sea beyond. As you walk through the ruins, you can almost hear the echoes of the past—the sounds of miners at work and the hustle of the gold rush. The smelter's historical significance is enhanced by informative signage that details its operations and the role it played in Aruba's economy. This makes it not only a picturesque stop for photography but also an educational experience for those interested in the local history. The area surrounding the Bushiribana Gold Smelter is equally enchanting. The rugged coastline, dotted with rocky outcrops and lush vegetation, provides a stunning backdrop. Many visitors take the opportunity to hike nearby trails, leading to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the sea. Whether you are an avid historian, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique adventure, the Bushiribana Gold Smelter is an essential stop on your Aruba itinerary.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Bring sturdy shoes for hiking the nearby trails.
- Pack water and snacks, as facilities are limited in the area.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Noord, head east on L.G. Smith Boulevard (also known as Route 1). Continue straight for about 2.5 kilometers until you reach the junction with Route 3. You will pass several shops and local attractions along the way, so feel free to stop and explore. At the junction, turn left onto Route 3 and continue for about 1 kilometer. Look for the signs directing you to the Bushiribana Gold Smelter. After approximately 1 kilometer, you will see a dirt road on your right; take this road and follow it for about 500 meters until you reach the smelter ruins. This route is easy to navigate on foot, and you will enjoy the natural landscape along the way.
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Bicycle
If you have a bicycle, start in central Noord and ride east along L.G. Smith Boulevard (Route 1). Continue for about 2.5 kilometers until you reach the intersection with Route 3. Turn left onto Route 3 and ride for approximately 1 kilometer. Keep an eye out for the signposts for Bushiribana Gold Smelter. After about 1 kilometer, take the dirt road on your right and follow it for about 500 meters to arrive at the smelter. Riding a bicycle is a great way to explore the area, and you can stop at various scenic spots along the route.
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Public Transport
Although there's no direct public transport to the Bushiribana Gold Smelter, you can take a local bus from central Noord heading towards Oranjestad. Get off at the bus stop at the intersection of Route 1 and Route 3. From there, you can walk east on Route 3 for about 1 kilometer until you find the dirt road leading to the smelter on your right. Follow this road for about 500 meters to reach your destination. Be sure to check the local bus schedule for times and routes.
