Things To Do
in Brades

Brades is a vibrant village located in Montserrat, known for its stunning vistas and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a key entry point for visitors to explore the island's natural beauty and historic sites, particularly the remnants of the volcanic eruption that devastated the southern part of the island in the 1990s. The community is characterized by its friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.

Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, delicious local cuisine, and unique cultural experiences in this idyllic Caribbean destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Brades
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Montserrat Cultural Centre, where you can learn about the island's history and cultural heritage.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, followed by a hike to the top of Garibaldi Hill for breathtaking views of the island.

evening
:

Wind down with dinner at a seaside restaurant and take a stroll along the beach to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a guided tour of the Montserrat Volcano Observatory for an educational experience about the island's volcanic activity.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Little Bay Beach, relaxing, swimming, or participating in water sports.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Caribbean dinner at a local restaurant and immerse yourself in live music at a nearby bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-30
🍕Pizza$10-20
🛒Groceries (weekly)$50-100
🏨Hotel per night$100-200
🚕Taxi ride$10-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and landscapes.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Numerous outdoor activities and adventures.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation can be sparse.
  • Higher costs due to remote location.
  • "Good morning" - Good morning
  • "Thank you" - Thank you
  • "Where is...?" - Where is...?
  • "How much is this?" - How much is this?
  • "I would like..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Brades

Visit one of these nice places.

Garibaldi Hill

A popular spot for panoramic views of the island and the Caribbean Sea, ideal for sunset photography.

Little Bay Beach

A picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters and white sands, perfect for capturing tropical beach scenes.

Montserrat Volcano Observatory

Offers stunning views of the Soufrière Hills volcano and the surrounding landscape.

Culinary Guide

Food in Brades

Montserrat's culinary scene is a delightful blend of Caribbean flavors and local ingredients, offering visitors a taste of the island's rich heritage.

Brades Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Goat Water

A hearty stew made with goat meat, vegetables, and spices, often considered a national dish.

Must-Try!

Fungi and Pepperpot

A traditional dish made from cornmeal and okra served with a flavorful meat stew.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Brades Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Brades experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 30°C), with the wettest months occurring from May to October. The dry season runs from December to April, making it the most favorable time for outdoor activities and tourism.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly 'hello' or 'good morning' is appreciated when meeting locals.

Respect for Nature

Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and local wildlife.

Dress Modestly

While casual attire is common, modest dress is recommended when visiting local churches or cultural sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Brades is generally a safe destination for tourists, but common precautions should be taken. Always be mindful of personal belongings and avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas. It's advisable to stay informed about local weather conditions, especially during hurricane season.

Tipping in Brades

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and bars, although service charges may already be included.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Mild temperatures and less humidity make this a popular time for tourists.

Spring (March - May)

Warm weather begins to settle in, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the island.

Summer (June - August)

Hot and humid, with occasional rain; great for beach activities but prepare for sudden showers.

Autumn (September - November)

Hurricane season; expect rain and storms, but it can also be quieter with fewer tourists.

Nightlife Guide

Brades at Night

The nightlife in Brades is relatively laid-back, focusing on local bars and restaurants that often feature live music and dancing. Visitors can enjoy a casual atmosphere, sipping on rum cocktails and mingling with locals. Events such as cultural festivals also provide opportunities for nightlife experiences, showcasing local music and dance.

Hiking in Brades

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Soufrière Hills Volcano Trail

A challenging hike that offers stunning views of the active volcano and the surrounding landscape.

Olveston to Plymouth Trail

A moderate trail that takes you through lush vegetation with historical ruins along the way.

Airports

How to reach Brades by plane.

John A. Osborne Airport (MNI)

The main airport serving Montserrat, located in the northern part of the island, it offers limited flights to and from Antigua and Barbados.

Getting Around

Walkability

Brades is a relatively walkable location, with key areas like shops, restaurants, and beaches within a reasonable distance. Sidewalks are available in populated areas, but some trails may require caution due to uneven terrain. Walking is a popular way to explore the village, especially for those enjoying the local scenery.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Montserratian Descendants

The majority of the population is of African descent, with a rich cultural history stemming from the island's colonial past.

Expatriates

A small community of expatriates from various countries, contributing to the local culture and economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is a beloved sport in Montserrat, with many locals playing and following the game passionately.

Football (Soccer)

Football is also popular, with local leagues and games drawing community support.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Brades is light, as the village is small and primarily served by local roads. Public transportation options include taxis and small buses, but they may not operate frequently. Renting a vehicle can provide more flexibility to explore the island.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Brades.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

While many dishes feature meat, there are vegetarian options available, and restaurants can often accommodate vegan requests.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare on Montserrat is accessible, with the main facility being the Glendon Hospital in the capital, Plymouth. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance, as some services may not be available locally, and more serious medical needs might require evacuation to other countries.

Discover Montserrat

Read more in our Montserrat 2025 Travel Guide.

Montserrat Travel Guide