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The island - The Dutch-Caribbean island measures just 5 sq mi (13 sq km). It lies on top of a rocky, potentially active volcano covered in misty, green forests.

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The island - Officially a public body of the Netherlands, it is the country's smallest special municipality. Its settlements are reminiscent of small villages set within the mountains of Europe.

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Location - The island is located just 30 minutes south of San Juan, Puerto Rico, and is accessible from St. Maarten by a ferry boat or a 12-minute plane ride.

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Mount Scenery - Mount Scenery marks the highest point of the Kingdom of the Netherlands at 2,910 ft (887 m) high. Its most recent eruption was in 1640.

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Population - The island's population is close to 2,000 residents.

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Language - The official languages are both English and Dutch. The local vernacular is a form of Virgin Islands Creole English.

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Municipalities - Its major towns are The Bottom (the capital), Windwardside, Hell's Gate, and St. Johns.

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The Unspoiled Queen - The island's nickname is "The Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean." The residents join together to protect the island and greatly value conserving its natural treasures.

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Vegetation - The majority of the island is covered in humid woodland forest, mango trees, and high-altitude mist, giving it the appearance of a mountain top out at sea.

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Saba lace -

Saba lace is a handcrafted art of needlework designs that is produced on the island and was a key source of revenue in the 20th century.

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Windwardside - Windwardside is the most tourist-oriented village and contains The Saba Tourist Bureau and many of the island's hotels and vacation rental cottages.

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Hotels - There are just a few select hotels to stay in while visiting the island, with The Queen's Gardens Resort & Spa being the most popular choice. It is owned by a husband and wife duo and overlooks the forests and Caribbean sea below.

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Diving -

Diving is a huge attraction on the island. Underwater volcanic mountains and reefs provide spectacular sights to anyone willing to take the plunge.

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Dive sites - There are many dive sites around the island that include diverse species of fish and other marine life. The pinnacle dive sites are the main draw, where magma rising up from underneath the sea floor has created towers of volcanic rock under the water.

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Saba National Marine Park - The Saba National Marine Park circles the entire island and extends to 200 ft (60 m) in depth. It was established in 1987 to protect the waters and is used for commercial and recreational purposes.

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Well's Bay -

Well's Bay is Saba's only beach and consists of a rock flat extending out into the sea. The bay is home to breathtaking marine life and coral and the drive down the steep, rocky mountainside should be taken with care.

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Traditional houses -

The characteristic houses have a cottage appearance and are typically white with red roofs.

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Hell's Gate Triathlon -

The island hosts the Hell's Gate Triathlon every year, in which participants can run, bike, and swim while marveling at the breathtaking scenery.

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Hiking -

The volcano offers many different hiking trails, with the most ambitious climb leading to the summit of Mt. Scenery. Don't be surprised to see herds of goats or chickens along the way!

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Out and about -

The island is home to fewer than 20 restaurants but you can still get a great meal and experience a bit of nightlife. Don't forget to try Saba's signature sweet rum-and-spice liquor, called Saba Spice.

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Independent establishments -

You won't find any chain restaurants or businesses on the island—all establishments are independently owned, and the same person or family often own various businesses.

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Historic churches - Many historic churches are located throughout the island, including three Roman Catholic, two Anglican, one Wesleyan Holiness, one Seventh Day Adventist, and one Jehovah Witness Hall.

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Historic churches - The oldest church is the Anglican Christ Church located in the village of The Bottom.

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Carnival - The highlight of the island's social calendar is the annual summer Carnival. It features plenty of music, colorful parades, and delicious food.

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Saba University School of Medicine - Saba is home to the Saba University School of Medicine. The university has received accreditation and approval for graduates to practice medicine in the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

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Cuisine - The traditional cuisine on the island is West Indian Creole. Dishes include fresh seafood and meats cooked in creole spices and jerk sauces.

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Cuisine -

In between meals, fresh exotic fruits are a popular choice, such as mangoes, breadfruit, and soursops.

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Not to be missed -

The tranquility and beauty of Saba is not to be missed. The tiny island will allow you to escape reality and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern-day life while welcoming you with its kind people, quaint villages, and breathtaking nature.

See also: The mysterious prehistoric city that has baffled scientists for years

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