Home | Travel | Top Attractions in Saint Helena
Saint Helena, a remote island in the South Atlantic Ocean, is one of the most isolated inhabited places in the world. Part of the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha, Saint Helena is a true hidden gem, offering stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and a peaceful atmosphere. Although the island is small, its natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture make it an unforgettable destination for adventurous travelers. Here are some of the top attractions to explore when visiting Saint Helena.
1. Napoleon's Tomb and Longwood House
Saint Helena is most famously associated with the exile of Napoleon Bonaparte, who was sent to the island after his defeat in 1815. His time on the island, which ended with his death in 1821, has left a lasting historical legacy.
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Napoleon’s Tomb: Located in Sane Valley, Napoleon’s tomb is one of the island's most iconic landmarks. The tomb is surrounded by a peaceful garden and is an important historical site, where visitors can pay tribute to the former French emperor. The site is beautifully maintained and offers a reflective, quiet atmosphere.
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Longwood House: This was Napoleon’s residence during his years of exile, and it is one of the best-preserved historical sites on the island. The house has been turned into a museum, where visitors can see Napoleonic memorabilia, including furniture, portraits, and letters. Longwood House provides insight into Napoleon's life on the island and the difficult conditions he faced during his time in exile.
2. Saint Helena's Capital: Jamestown
Jamestown, the capital of Saint Helena, is a charming colonial town built within a narrow valley surrounded by steep hills. It’s a picturesque and historically rich area, offering a glimpse into the island's past.
Key highlights of Jamestown include:
- The Market Square: The heart of the town, where local markets take place. Here, visitors can enjoy local crafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce while experiencing the friendly island community.
- The Saints’ Rest: A historic colonial building that serves as a reminder of the island's British roots, located near the town's center.
- The Jacob’s Ladder: One of the most recognizable features of Jamestown, Jacob's Ladder is a steep set of 699 steps that climb up the cliffs surrounding the town. It offers stunning views of Jamestown and the surrounding landscape and is a rewarding challenge for hikers.
3. The Saint Helena Distillery
Saint Helena is home to the Saint Helena Distillery, which produces some of the island's most well-known products, including Saint Helena Rum. The distillery offers tours where visitors can learn about the rum-making process, the history of the island's distillation industry, and taste the local rum. The distillery is an excellent place to enjoy some local flavors and learn about the island's unique agricultural and production methods.
4. Diana's Peak National Park
For nature lovers and hikers, Diana’s Peak National Park is an absolute must-see. It is the highest point on the island, standing at 818 meters above sea level, and offers incredible panoramic views of the island’s rugged landscape. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including endemic species like the Saint Helena Plover and the Saint Helena Cabbage.
Visitors can enjoy several hiking trails through the park, which lead to Diana’s Peak itself and other scenic viewpoints. The trails pass through lush, dense forests and volcanic terrain, providing opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and immersion in the island’s untouched nature.
5. The Briars Pavilion and Plantation House
Another important historical site is The Briars Pavilion, a historic property that once served as Napoleon’s temporary residence before he moved to Longwood House. The Briars is also the birthplace of Napoleon’s son, Napoleon II (also known as the King of Rome), born during Napoleon’s exile.
The nearby Plantation House is the official residence of the Governor of Saint Helena and is another example of the island’s colonial-era architecture. Visitors can learn about the governance of Saint Helena, explore the gardens, and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape. The house and its grounds are not generally open to the public but can be visited by appointment.
6. Lava Tubes and the Island’s Volcanic Landscape
Saint Helena is a volcanic island with dramatic cliffs, craters, and lava formations that make for stunning natural scenery. Among the most fascinating geological features are the lava tubes—underground tunnels created by flowing lava that cooled and solidified, leaving hollow chambers.
One of the most popular places to explore these natural formations is Blue Hill, where visitors can take guided tours to walk through the lava tubes and marvel at their unique shapes and textures. This area offers insight into the island’s volcanic history and provides a glimpse into the raw natural beauty of Saint Helena.
7. Saint Helena's Beaches: Sandy Bay and Ruperts Bay
Saint Helena is not known for large sandy beaches, but it has a few quiet and secluded beaches where visitors can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the island’s coastline.
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Sandy Bay: Located on the eastern coast of the island, Sandy Bay is a quiet, unspoiled stretch of sand ideal for relaxing. The bay is surrounded by rocky cliffs and offers beautiful views of the ocean, making it perfect for a peaceful retreat.
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Ruperts Bay: Situated near Jamestown, Ruperts Bay is a picturesque beach popular with both locals and visitors. The bay is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky outcrops, offering opportunities for a peaceful day at the beach, fishing, or exploring the nearby coastline.
8. St. Helena's Wildlife and Birdwatching
Saint Helena is home to a range of unique wildlife and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching. The island’s isolation has allowed a number of endemic species to evolve, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Some of the most notable wildlife on the island includes:
- The Saint Helena Plover (or Saint Helena Darter), a critically endangered bird species that is native to the island. Conservation efforts have helped increase its population, and it can often be spotted in the island’s protected nature reserves.
- The Saint Helena Giant Earwig, one of the largest and rarest of its kind, and other endemic insects and plant species.
For birdwatchers, the island offers a chance to see a number of species unique to Saint Helena, including the Saint Helena Waxbill and the Saint Helena Cuckoo.
9. The Governor's Walk and Heart Shaped Waterfall
For those interested in taking in some of the island’s more scenic beauty, the Governor’s Walk is a popular hiking trail that offers beautiful views of Jamestown and the surrounding landscape. The walk takes you through lush greenery and along the coast, offering a glimpse into both the natural and historical sides of the island.
One of the most picturesque spots along the Governor’s Walk is the Heart Shaped Waterfall, a beautiful and serene location where water cascades over rocks in a way that forms a natural heart shape. This hidden gem is perfect for photography and a peaceful retreat in nature.
10. The St. Helena Museum
The St. Helena Museum, located in Jamestown, is an excellent place to learn about the island’s history, culture, and heritage. The museum features exhibits on the island’s discovery, Napoleon’s exile, local geology, and the flora and fauna of Saint Helena. It’s an informative stop that offers a deeper understanding of the island’s unique place in world history.
Conclusion
Saint Helena is a captivating destination, offering a blend of history, nature, and isolation that few other places in the world can match. From the historical sites linked to Napoleon’s exile to the rugged volcanic landscapes, the island provides a range of attractions that will appeal to history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. With its peaceful atmosphere and untouched beauty, Saint Helena is an unforgettable destination for those looking to explore one of the most unique corners of the world.