Miriam C. Schmidt Botanical Garden

Located on the southern slopes of The Quill lies one of the most peaceful places on Statia. Local woman Miriam Schmidt had an ambition to protect the rich bio-diversity of her island, which eventually resulted in the founding of the youngest botanical garden in the Dutch Caribbean in 1998. Unfortunately, this visionary conservationist already saw her last Statian sunset, but visitors can still enjoy in this 5.3ha nature reserve. It's a safe haven from wandering livestock, invasive ornamental species and the pressures of development. Many native flora can be found here and a walk through the lush gardens is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Sculptures by local artists dot the trails here and the gardens have their own themes from touch and taste and palms to typical garden and kitchen plants. It’s difficult to get here without your own transport, but you can usually hitch a ride if you head toward Rosemary Laan and the Quill. Enjoy a well-deserved rest at the greenhouse pavilion that provides picnic tables and a bathroom. The garden is open from sunrise until sunset. Don’t miss the bird watching trail.