Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Father Jerome's
Mt Alvernia Hermitage
is a tiny blanched-stone church with a Gothic-
style bell tower, small chapel, tiny cloister, and guest cell on Como Hill. Reached by a rock
staircase on the hillside, the views from here are wonderful. A rough track to the hermitage
begins immediately south of the Government Administrative Complex on Queen's Hwy,
north of the ruins of the old Armbrister Plantation - it's clearly signed off the road.
The biggest event of the year is the
Cat Island Regatta
, in August. Cat Islanders from
far and wide head back to the island for the homemade-sailboat races, domino tournaments
and land-based fun of Emancipation Day (the first Monday in August). Bands congregate
for the four-day
Annual Rake 'n' Scrape Music Festival
, held over the Labor Day week-
end in June, which is organized by Sidney Poitier's daughter, Pamela.
Sleeping & Eating
Gilbert's Inn & Car Rentals
INN $
( 242-342-3011; New Bight; r $93; ) This budget two-story motel opposite the New
Bight Food Market is very popular, so book ahead. Each room has a bed with a mirrored
headboard, good bathroom, fridge and cable TV. Car rentals are also possible and the store
across the road is well equipped.
Bridge Inn
INN $$
( 242-342-3013;
www.bridgeinncatisland.com
;
New Bight; r $120; ) This attract-
ive complex has native-stone walls and lofty wooden ceilings to keep the 12 rooms cool,
though they are quite dark and worn. A restaurant and bar serves Bahamian food and has
a rocking jukebox, and there are some good beaches within walking distance. The venue
sometimes hosts a local rake 'n' scrape band.
Fernandez Bay Village
RESORT $$$
( 242-342-3043, 242-342-2088;
www.fernandezbayvillage.com
;
Fernandez Bay; cot-
tage $280-315 villa $370-425; ) Set on an absolutely superb crescent moon white-sand
beach, this quiet and attractive resort has fabulous beachside stone and timber rooms, with
private open-air bathrooms. The open-air bar and restaurant have a wonderful ocean back-
drop and the offshore reefs are perfect for easy snorkeling. It offers free use of kayaks, ca-
noes and bikes. There are also decent restaurants here.
Blue Bird Restaurant & Bar
BAHAMIAN $$
( 242-342-3095; New Bight; mains $10-15; lunch & dinner Mon-Sat) Right on the
beach, this friendly place is run by a team of three sisters who serve up very tasty but simple
