Are you reading this behind your desk at the office? Are you looking to plan your weekend? Well, imagine this. This Sunday, you wake up bright and early. It is sunny outside. You wake your partner up, your children if you have any and if they are your little hike partners, or you decide that this day belongs to you and only to you. You head to the South West of the island to get an eyeful of the wonderful views that you have seen online so many times. You are going to hike Le Morne.
The starting point to this beautiful hike is on the way to the Le Morne Village. A road sign will indicate the way and you will have to drive or walk on a little off-road route for a few minutes. You do not need a guide to hike Le Morne as it is rather straight-forward, although you can download a GPX file online to be sure.
Up to the first plateau, the walk is a leisurely one and you can already start enjoying the views after a 30 minute walk. On a sunny day, the turquoise waters and the different shades of blue will leave you speechless. Take a break. Take in the sun and the view. Maybe even take a photo for the gram. At some point the path becomes lined with beautiful trees and bushes. Depending on the time of year you are going, the leaves could be turning to orange and red providing an extra energy boost. Just what you need as you go onto the next step.
Indeed, after the plateau, it gets harder. The terrain is different, the slopes are steeper and for about 20m you will even be required to climb. If you are not a frequent hiker, or if you are with friends, family members or children who are not used to climbing… maybe it is best to hold off. Besides, the plateau is perfect for a little picnic, for taking in the view, for a meditation session or just to sit and breathe. For those willing to continue, the rugged path is mostly not sheltered from the sun from here on so be sure to wear sunscreen and bring lots of water!
The climb from the plateau takes 45 minutes to an hour depending on your physical condition. Be sure to stop and look at the view because from here on, you are always privy to a special and beautiful show of blue hues, tones and shades, glistening waves and luxurious green from surrounding mountains.
On top of the mountain has been placed a cross in remembrance of the slaves who lived and died in and on Le Morne before the abolition of slavery. It is important to be respectful and not climb the cross. Photos, however, are welcome. Take in the mesmerizing views, sit and enjoy some water and a snack and take in the pure, clean air. You're alive!
Le Morne mountain history
The popular story is that maroons living on Le Morne committed suicide by jumping from the mountain when slave holders and colons found a way up and they thought they would be captured. It is also told that the holders were not coming to capture the slaves but to announce the abolition of slavery. However, this version of the story is being contested with historians talking about the presence of maroons on Le Morne way before 1835, when slavery was abolished.
