Six Invigorating Outdoor Adventures for this Divali Holiday

Shark River is beautiful river destination that is ideal for a good ‘Trini’ river lime. With many shallow spots for wading complemented by deep crystal clear pools for swimming, it is a river that everyone can enjoy. The clarity of the water is astounding and in deep areas, the surrounding lush vegetation gives the water an amazing emerald green tinge. Shark River, is so named because at one time visitors would witness sharks swimming up the river from the nearby Caribbean Sea. But have no fear, this has not occurred for some time and it is safe to swim in the beautiful water. Located between the villages of Grand Riviere and Matelot, it is a lovely destination to spend a relaxing day. Unlike many other river lime destinations, the banks of Shark River are equipped with concrete seating and tables for those who wish to have a meal. The more adventurous can explore upstream where you will discover various pools, gorges and waterfalls.

The Asa Wright Nature Centre (AWNC) is a Not-for-Profit Trust established in 1967, it’s Mission: “To preserve a part of the Arima Valley in its natural state; to create a conservation and study area and to protect  the wildlife therein for the enjoyment and benefit  of all persons of this and succeeding generations”. The Centre was selected by the Ecotourism Society and listed in the October 1999 issue of Audubon Magazine as one of the finest eco-lodges in the world, it was also selected as the model for a case study on “Eco-tourism as a Strategy for Sustainable Development”. As you make your way along the Blanchisseuse road, the adventure has begun, vines hanging, blind  corners and precipitous  drops, lush Christophene farming and nature sounds, you are definitely getting nearer to your destination. The AWNC and Lodge is a must to experience, it is the best destination in Trinidad for unique birding and natural history experiences. Overnight guests wake up to the alarm of a variety of bird sounds, and as they gravitate toward the veranda they help themselves to our plantation grown robusta coffee, found only at Asa Wright. Breakfast is all local, with our very own whole wheat bread, local jams and jellies made from fruits harvested in our garden. Daily we welcome visitors as we are open to the public from 9am – 5pm,we offer daily natural history tours at 10.30 am and then at 1.30 pm. We serve creole food in our restaurant please call ahead with your dietary requirements so that we can cater to your needs. Families are encouraged, the allure of our small clear water pool, the connection with nature, the relaxed pace and peaceful environment brings a sense of contentment we all need to experience.

The majestic Columbus Bay lies on the South-West peninsula of Trinidad. It is considered “deep south” by locals, as reaching the destination can take over three hours from the capital, Port of Spain and one hour and a half from San Fernando. The extensive beach stretches over 4km in length. The waves that come to the shore from the Gulf of Paria are calm and ensure an enjoyable swim for all. The wide expanse of sand make it an ideal spot for a picnic or games on the beach. The adventurous can also explore various the land formations and natural features of the Bay. Columbus Bay is bordered by two points, Los Gallos Point and Corral Point. On a good and clear day, it is possible to see the Venezuelan coast from Corral Point. An eroded headland stands at Los Gallos Point which adds to the unique beauty of the bay. The remarkable sea caves and sandstone stacks were created by sea erosion caused by the continuous pounding action of the waves. There are three stacks standing in the midst of the bay known as the "three sisters". The upper beach is bordered by the Constance Coconut Estate, the largest coconut estate in Trinidad, and a small wetland is located in the central area of the shore on the bay. It is believed that this is where Christopher Columbus first landed on the already inhabited Trinidad and Tobago on July 31st, 1498 on his third voyage. It is said that on the first night his ship was anchored on the beach, a gaint wave crashed against the ship causing it to lose its anchor. Today, the anchor can be seen at the National Museum.

Galera Point is one of the most beautiful and dramatic ocean destinations in Trinidad. Literally the furthest eastern point of the island, Galera Point is the location of the Toco Lighthouse that overlooks the turbulent stretch of water known as the Fisherman's Graveyard, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea. The Toco lighthouse, a white stone tower built in 1897, shines a red light that warns vessels of the rocky waters below. Take a walk past the lighthouse down a narrow path through a small gate in the fence to the windblown rocky cliffs below where large waves crash against jagged black rocks. Here literally at Trinidad's easternmost point you will behold a dramatic watery struggle where the waters of the Atlantic intermingle with the Caribbean Sea giving you a feeling that you are actually at world's end. Outdoor furniture and carat sheds around the lighthouse make for a relaxing breezy picnic location.

On the leeward coast of Tobago, if you look carefully, you will find Englishman's Bay - a picturesque secluded beach which despite its lack of popularity among beach-goers is arguably Tobago's most beautiful beach destination. Counted among the top 10 beaches in the Caribbean by many travel magazines and websites, this beach is indeed a diamond in the rough. Located between Castara and Parletuvier about 1. 5 km past Castara, the beach is not visible from the Northside Road. Locating it requires a keen eye for a blue and white sign indicating a left turn. Follow the unpaved road to the end and there you will find the classic crescent shaped beach nestled between the thick tropical rainforest and the clear blue Caribbean Sea. The destination is ideal for swimming, snorkelling and camping. Chairs, umbrellas and snorkelling equipment can be rented. It is a nesting ground for the leatherback turtle and is a popular mooring spot for yachts. There is food on sale as well as local craft.

This historical destination which overlooks Scarborough is the best preserved colonial fort in Tobago. Recently refurbished to return it to its old colonial stature, Fort King George stands as a resilient monument of Tobago's turbulent military past. The cannons overlooking the coast are a testament to an era when many battle were waged over Tobago. Built by the British in the 1770s and named in honour of King George the Third, who ruled from 1760 to 1820, the fort is now home to the Tobago Museum which occupies what was once the Barrack Guard House. The Museum exhibits Amerindian artifacts, military relics, shells and documents from the colonial period. The prisoner's bell tank, barracks and officers’ mess are some of the highlights of a walk around the grounds. But for many it is the spectacular vistas that the fort’s high perch over Scarborough affords that makes this a must see destination.