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Portsmouth is the second most important town and harbour after Roseau. An hour's drive along the west coast from Roseau brings you to Portsmouth. Along the route to this town is the Ross University near Portsmouth. |
A colourful market is held here twice a week with all local fruits, vegetables and spices for sale. There are also open-air shops selling folk arts & crafts, & variety of T-shirts. There are some guesthouses, restaurants, & a cinema in the town.
The Indian River, one of Dominica’s deepest rivers, originates from Portsmouth. From the bridge just south of Portsmouth, boats make regular trips up the river lined with thick vegetation.
A sandy stretch at Picard’s Beach is lined with coconut palms. Further, is the extremely popular Prince Rupert Bay. This is an ideal site for swimming, diving or snorkeling. Many yachts can also be seen in this bay. Yellow sand can be found on the beach at Douglas Bay, however it is quite stony. The harbour is surrounded by the twin mounts of the Cabrits Peninsula.
Nearby are the ruins of the 18th-century Fort Shirley on the Cabrits. It has a museum in one of the restored buildings where entry is free. Clearly marked paths lead to the Commander’s Quarters, Douglas Battery and other outlying areas. These colonial fortifications are presently covered with rich vegetation and also have some cannons that were used as defence for the fort. Some beautiful views can be seen from here.
