10 Ways To Stay Active on Nevis
With its pristine natural landscapes and inspiring coastal views, Nevis is the ideal destination for an active island retreat. Boasting miles of unspoiled jungle and swatches of deserted coastline, solace and seclusion are the reward for those who venture off the well-trodden tourist trail to immerse themselves in the real Caribbean.
When staying at The Retreat the opportunity to embark on an adventure is never too far away. From hiking trails to cross channel swimming, there’s plenty to keep your mind and body in excellent shape during your time away.
As the sun’s rays break over the one acre of landscaped gardens bringing with them the dawn of a new day in paradise, the terrace at The Retreat offers an idyllic open-air yoga studio on which to hone your practise.
With experienced teachers like Janet Thrasher (Yoga Nevis) on hand to help you kick-start your morning, a daily private yoga class before breakfast is a simple way to re-energise during your stay.
Tailored Wellness Retreat
If disconnecting from the stresses of life back home and dedicating some time to personal improvement is your idea of rest and relaxation, Nevisian local and fitness enthusiast David Walwyn of Charlestown's F.I.T Wellness Centre is on hand to provide a holistic element to your vacation. His lifestyle consultations are ideal for those who are looking to improve their general health and fitness.
In addition to this, for guests who prefer to stick to their regular fitness regime The Retreat’s gym and exterior space provides the opportunity to exercise on-site with or without a personal trainer.
Dumbbells and medicine and slam balls ensure optimum results for weighted workouts; a heavy duty punch bag, rowing machine, spin bike, and a long inclined driveway offer cardio options to suit all levels and preferences. Make use of the property's Sonos system during your workouts and listen to your own personal playlists!
With such a wide range of opportunities to keep active on Nevis you’re sure to find adventure when you visit the island known as the Queen of the Caribees.
Yoga By The Pool
If cardio and sensational views are more akin to your idea of an active adventure then a hike to the top of the indomitable Nevis Peak is sure to both challenge and delight. Accompanied by a local guide whose knowledge of the trail and understanding of the local flora and fauna enhance the experience, those who scale the 3200 ft summit always return enthused by their achievement.
Allow four to six hours for the return trip to The Retreat.
Climb Nevis Peak
One of the most highly regarded open water swims in the Caribbean, the Nevis to St Kitts Cross Channel Swim is a 4km dash between Oualie Beach on Nevis, and Cockleshell Bay on St Kitts.
To swim this route competitively visit Nevis in March when the world’s best open water swimmers descend on the Federation in order to pitch themselves against each other as they battle to cross from one island to the next. Alternatively swim the narrows at your leisure with assistance from a dedicated team; enquire at the time of booking to schedule this activity during your stay.
Please note that this activity is dependant on the weather and ocean conditions.
Conquer the Narrows
Volleyball on the Beach
Although the tiny island of Nevis isn’t the most obvious holiday destination for cyclists, the single-lane asphalt roads that weave their way around its volcanic peak endear those who take to them on two wheels.
Cycle rental is available from Wheel World at Oualie Beach where passionate triathlete Winston Crooke is on hand to assist with kit rental and local ride knowledge. Keen cyclists will enjoy the challenging 20 mile (30 km) circular ride which follows the main island road and offers a snapshot of true island life.
Read more about where to cycle on Nevis in this article from British cyclist Ray Moore.
Circumnavigate Nevis by Bike
One of the easiest ways to add a little cardio fitness to your day without really noticing is to hit the beach volleyball court at either Yachtsman Grill or the Chrishi Beach Club, and challenge your friends and family to a tournament.
Set aside the sand in the picturesque Cades Bay, the Yachtsman Grill is known for its ice-cold Caribs and fresh stone baked pizzas; both of which are a well deserved treat regardless of whether you win or lose on the court.
Quite possibly the most romantic of all Nevis’ activities, horse riding along the undulating sands of Cades Bay and galloping through the ocean spray makes for a picture-perfect memory of your time on the island.
From their base at Nevis Equestrian Centre a team ride out daily on both the beach and surrounding trails, however their sunset ride has always been my favourite.
Horseback through the Surf
The flagship sporting event on Nevis is their annual Triathlon. With both Sprint and Olympic distance options, competitors swim in the azure Caribbean Sea, circumnavigate the island on a bike and run a course which takes them along jungle trails, swatches of beach, and picturesque stretches of road.
Sound like your idea of heaven? Register now and book your stay at The Retreat in November when this annual event takes place.
To view an up-to-date availability calendar, contact us, or make a booking at The Retreat, please click here.
Compete in a Triathlon
Hike the Source Trail
Nevis is blessed with miles of spectacular rain forested hiking trails that are peppered with the ruins of historic plantations and bursting with life. One of the most notable hikes on Nevis, the trail to the Source can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate level of fitness and a zest for adventure.
Maintained by the water department of Nevis this route leads to the island’s main freshwater source and takes in panoramic views over the north coast, as well as some fabulous ruins that illustrate island life long ago.
Hit Some Balls
The sports facilities of the Four Seasons are accessible via the buggy tracks that lead from outside The Retreat directly down to the main resort. Alternatively it’s a 3 minute hop in the car. Managed by world-renowned Peter Burwash International, the site is comprised of four red clay courts (two lit for night play), four hard courts (one lit for night play) and two AstroTurf courts (both lit for night play). Book in for private tuition with the resident tennis pro or join the weekly open group classes and round robin tournaments, (note that reservations for group classes are confirmed 24 hours before).
See further information from the Tennis Pro here.
There are two tennis rackets at The Retreat available for guest use, and additional equipment, apparel and accessories are available from the pro shop, located in the sports pavilion.
A premium golfing experience which offers dramatic island views at every hole, as you tee off on the Four Seasons Nevis Robert Trent Jones II Golf Course you’ll find yourself transported into an alternate dimension. One where the colours of the world appear almost too vibrant to be real.
With its exceptional design, affording golfers the opportunity to enjoy playing a wide variety of shots, this is one round of golf you won’t soon forget.
