A Warm Welcome to the Trails

As I stepped off the boat onto the sun-drenched shores of Beef Island, I was greeted by the warm, salty breeze that carried with it the promise of adventure. Our guide, Sef, was a beacon of enthusiasm, welcoming each of us with a smile that seemed to reflect the very spirit of the British Virgin Islands. His assurance that we would be well-supported on this challenging hike was comforting, and I felt a familiar thrill of anticipation, reminiscent of the many train journeys I have embarked upon across Europe.

The trail up Mount Alma, a hidden gem that had been lovingly restored after the devastation of Hurricane Irma, beckoned us with its promise of unparalleled views. As we began our ascent, Sef’s guidance on footwork and safety was invaluable, much like the careful planning of a scenic rail route. Each step was deliberate, each pause a moment to savor the journey rather than rush to the destination.

The Ascent: A Journey Through Time

The climb was indeed challenging, but the camaraderie among our group and Sef’s engaging tales of the island’s history made the effort feel like a shared adventure. As we paused to catch our breath, I was reminded of the leisurely pace of a train journey, where the joy lies in the unfolding scenery and the stories that accompany it.

Sef’s knowledge of the British Virgin Islands’ past, from its days of cattle grazing to its current status as a hiker’s paradise, added layers of depth to our experience. It was as if we were traveling back in time, each story a window into the island’s rich tapestry. The trail, once a bustling path for cattle, now served as a serene escape for those seeking the beauty of nature and history intertwined.

The Summit: A View to Remember

Reaching the summit of Mount Alma was akin to arriving at a long-awaited destination on a train journey. The panoramic views that greeted us were nothing short of spectacular. The islands stretched out before us, a mosaic of blues and greens that seemed to dance in the sunlight. It was a moment of pure magic, one that I wished I could capture and carry with me forever.

As we descended, the promise of refreshments and a beach cool down awaited us. The locally made fresh fruit juices and Johnny cake were a delightful reward, much like the simple pleasures of a well-prepared meal on a train. The day ended with a refreshing dip in the sea, a perfect conclusion to a journey that had been as much about the path as the destination.

This hike on Mount Alma was a reminder of the beauty of slow travel, of taking the time to savor each moment and each story. It was a journey that, much like my beloved train travels, left me with memories to cherish and a longing to return.