Fort Rodney and Signal Peak

Pigeon Island National Park, St Lucia

This rugged 40 acre national park offers the hiker a pleasant walk through woodlands and military ruins, and a chance to climb to the island’s highest point—330 foot Signal Peak. Fort Rodney and Signal Peak are the two most noticeable features of Pigeon Island National Park—the two peaks rise hundreds of feet above sea level, affording spectacular panoramic views of the island. Conveniently, Fort Rodney and Signal Peak are joined by a saddle allowing the hiker to climb both hills with little effort. A marked trail leads right to the top of 225 foot Fort Rodney, where you can see remains of the military installation, including a powder hold and two cannons. The tour begins amid the stone ruins, which include the old Officer’s Kitchen and soldiers’ barracks. The main path, as it winds upward to the southern peak, leads to Fort Rodney, which was constructed in 1778. The broad path is easily accessible, except for the last hundred feet, where some moderate climbing is required. Once on top, take a moment to savor the incredible views. For those willing to endure hiking a little further, Signal Peak offers more of a challenge—this trek is more strenuous as it climbs up the steep rocks, but the amazing views from the top are worth the effort. It’s easy to understand why the peak was designated as Admiral Rodney’s main lookout post—the perspective affords excellent views of the inland mountains, the turquoise waters and sandy bays, and the island of Martinique to the north.