Hike to Douglas Bay Battery in Cabrits National Park

From Portsmouth, Cabrits National Park is about a 10 minute drive north. You can get there easily by taxi or you can rent a car if you want to drive there (but know that driving in Dominica is on the left).

Cabrits National Park is home to Fort Shirley an old military outpost built by the British in the 18th century. It also contains tropical forests and beautiful coral reefs.

Once you get to the park there is a $5 (US) entry fee or  $13 EC. Turn right at the main entrance and you'll take a path up to the trailhead. To the left and up the hill is Fort Shirley and the West Cabrit Trail. To the right is a trail that leads to the Commandant's Quarters and the Douglas Bay Battery. You will be taking the path on the right, however, feel free to explore Fort Shirley! The hike you'll be doing is a 2 mile out-and-back hike (1 mile each way) where you'll have lizards and snakes all around you, so be warned! The creatures I saw weren't poisonous so that's good news! You'll follow the East Cabrit Trail which includes a moderate incline and you'll first come upon Commandant's Quarters. These are cool ruins designed by one of America's first architects! After you're done with the ruins, continue upward for awhile and towards the top you'll reach some old steps which make for an artistic photo. Continue down the trail and you'll eventually reach the Douglas Bay Battery! From here you have an amazing view of Douglas Bay and can overlook the city of Portsmouth! In order to get back just retrace your steps.