Cabrits National Park: Where History Embraces Nature

Cabrits National Park, established in 1986, spans 1,313 acres on the northern tip of Dominica. The park's name comes from the French, Spanish, and Portuguese word for "goat," referencing the animals that once roamed the area. The landscape is dominated by the remnants of an extinct volcano, forming East and West Cabrit peaks, and is framed by the coastal stretches of Douglas Bay and Prince Rupert Bay. The park was created to protect both the cultural heritage of Fort Shirley and the surrounding environment. Fort Shirley, constructed in 1765 by the British, served as a crucial military outpost. Expanded by the French between 1778 and 1784, it once housed over 600 soldiers. The fort is known for the revolt of the 8th West India Regiment in 1802, where African soldiers rebelled against British colonial rule, leading to the emancipation of slave soldiers in the British Empire in 1807. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of Fort Shirley, including the officers' quarters, barracks, and ramparts. The park also offers hiking trails through lush forests, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs. The park's diverse landscapes include tropical dry forests, home to unique plant species, and important wetland areas that provide habitats for various plants and animals.