St. Kitts (Basseterre), Saint Kitts & Nevis

Behind the Scenes at Caribelle Batik

Create Your Own Colorful Fabric and Stroll the Estate Gardens Learn about the rich tradition of batik during a hands-on class at a historic manor house. Admire the rugged beauty of St. Kitts during a scenic drive to the elegant Romney Manor, located on the expansive Winfield Estate. Dating back to the 17th century, this former sugarcane plantation was once owned by an ancestor of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the US; today, it is home to pristine gardens and a thriving batik enterprise. A centuries-old technique, batik uses dye-resistant wax applied on fabric to create intricately designed and colored cloth for textile purposes. You will have an opportunity to watch this intriguing process in action, then take part in creating your own unique piece. You will also explore the estate’s lush botanical gardens and stop to gaze upon the 400-year-old saman tree, the largest living organism on St. Kitts. * Easy - Walking portions are generally over easy surfaces with few steps or inclines. Total time walking or standing is normally not longer than 1.5 hours.