Distance to Mount Alvernia, Cat Island, Bahamas
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Not technically a mountain but It is one of the natural wonders of The Bahamas. Reaching 206 feet (63 meters) above sea level. Mount Alvernia (Como Hill) is the highest point in the country, Located on Cat Island, Mount Alvernia is home to the hand-built stone monastery The Hermitage. It was created by Father Jerome, a local but famous priest and architect. Visitors can take a short but scenic hike, leading to jaw-dropping panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean.
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General Information
Attraction Name: Mount Alvernia (Como Hill)
Location: Cat Island, Bahamas
GPS Coordinates (DMS): 24°18′46″ N, 75°27′08″ W
GPS Coordinates (Decimal): 24.3129, -75.4524
Significance: The highest point in the Bahamas (206 feet/63 meters above sea level), home to **The Hermitage**, a historic monastery built by Father Jerome.
Closest Major City: New Bight, Cat Island
Currency: Bahamian Dollar (BSD) and United States Dollar (USD)
Local Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC−5)
Closest Airport: New Bight Airport (TBI)
Language Spoken: English (official language)
How to Get to Mount Alvernia, Cat Island
Travel by Air
Flying is the fastest way to reach Cat Island. There are two airlines that operate flights to New Bight Airport (TBI), the closest airport to Mount Alvernia.
Makers Air
Route: Ft. Lauderdale, Florida → New Bight, Cat Island
Flight Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Frequency: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday
Western Air
Route: Nassau, New Providence → New Bight, Cat Island
Flight Time: Approximately 30–40 minutes
Frequency: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday
Travel by Mail Boat
For a more scenic and budget-friendly option, the M/V Sea Hauler mail boat provides service to **South Cat Island**. While slower than flying, it’s a unique way to experience the Bahamas.
Route: Nassau → Cat Island
Travel Time: Approximately **12-14 hours**
Departure: Schedule varies—check with the mail boat office for updates.
Getting to Mount Alvernia from New Bight
Once you arrive in **New Bight, Cat Island**, you have a few options to reach Mount Alvernia:
- By Taxi: Taxis are available from the airport or dock and can take you to the base of Mount Alvernia in about **5-10 minutes**.
- By Walk: If you prefer to walk, it’s a **20-30 minute trek** from the main road in New Bight to the start of the trail.
- By Car: If you have a rental vehicle, you can drive to the closest point near the trailhead, where you’ll find a small parking area.
The final ascent to the top is a **steep but short hike** up a paved pathway that leads to The Hermitage, offering panoramic views of Cat Island.
Attractions Near Mount Alvernia, Cat Island
Attraction | Distance (km) | Distance (miles) |
---|---|---|
The Hermitage | 0.1 | 0.06 |
New Bight Beach | 2.5 | 1.6 |
Armbrister Plantation Ruins | 3.8 | 2.4 |
Old Bight Beach | 6.5 | 4.0 |
Port Howe Ruins | 19.0 | 11.8 |
Columbus Point | 35.0 | 21.7 |
Fernandez Bay | 10.5 | 6.5 |
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FAQs About Mount Alvernia and Cat Island, Bahamas
If you’re planning a trip to Cat Island and the highest point in the Bahamas, Mount Alvernia, you probably have a few questions about what to expect. From how to get there to local wildlife, this guide covers the most commonly asked questions to help you prepare for your visit.
What is the Highest Point in The Bahamas?
The highest point in The Bahamas is Mount Alvernia, also known as Como Hill, standing at 206 feet above sea level. Located on Cat Island, it is home to The Hermitage, a hand-built stone monastery constructed by Father Jerome in 1939. Visitors can hike to the top for stunning panoramic views of the island and the surrounding turquoise waters.
How Many People Live on Cat Island, Bahamas?
Cat Island has a small, close-knit population of around 1,500 residents. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, the island is a quiet retreat compared to busier Bahamian destinations like Nassau or Grand Bahama. Cat Island is also famous for its homemade baked bread, a local specialty enjoyed by both residents and visitors.
Can Anyone Visit Cat Island?
Yes! Cat Island is open to all travelers, whether you’re arriving by air, sea, or private charter. Regular flights operate from Nassau and Fort Lauderdale, making access relatively easy. There’s also a mail boat service from New Providence for those looking for a slower, more scenic way to reach the island.
For visitors arriving by boat, there are marinas and docking options available at different points around the island.
What is the Currency in Cat Island?
The official currency of The Bahamas, including Cat Island, is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD), which is equivalent to the U.S. Dollar (USD). Both currencies are widely accepted, and most local businesses operate on cash transactions.
While some larger resorts and establishments may accept credit and debit cards, it’s always a good idea to carry cash, as many local restaurants, shops, and services operate on a cash-only basis.
How Many Cars Are on Cat Island?
Cat Island is one of the less populated islands in The Bahamas, meaning there are fewer vehicles and minimal traffic. Many locals walk, ride bicycles, or use scooters and small trucks to get around.
For visitors looking to explore the island, rental cars are available, but the roads are mostly unpaved and best suited for SUVs or four-wheel-drive vehicles.
If you’re staying at a resort or guesthouse, you can often arrange taxis or transportation through your accommodation.
Are There Snakes on Cat Island, Bahamas?
Yes, there are snakes on Cat Island, but none of them are venomous. The Bahamas is home to several species of non-venomous snakes, with the most common being the Bahamian Boa. This snake is harmless to humans and plays an important role in the island’s ecosystem by helping control rodent populations.
Most snakes in The Bahamas are rarely seen unless you’re exploring forested or rocky areas. If you do spot one, there’s no need to worry—these snakes are typically shy and will avoid human interaction.