Millions of years ago, when the Eastern Caribbean was merely a range of mountains underneath the sea, a series of volcanic eruptions took place disturbing the ocean floor. Slowly, a chain of islands began to emerge from the sea. At the center of this volcanic action rose an island of towering mountains.
Situation 15.5 degrees north of equator, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Caribbean Sea to the west, Dominica lies in the inner arc of the Lesser Antilles. It is also an integral constituent of the Windward Islands, which, along with the Leeward Islands, make up the Eastern Caribbean states of the West Indies.
Known as « the nature island of the Caribbean », Dominica remains an unspoiled paradise for divers, hikers and naturalists. It is the largest of the Winward Islands and features dramatic volcanic landscapes with lush rainforests, waterfalls, lakes, gorges, rivers, steamy hot springs and the hugest mountain in the Eastern Caribbean.
The rugged coastline shelters rustic coastal villages and rocky black-sand beaches, many of Dominica remains an unspoiled good snorkeling or diving spots. Dominica also offers a captivating mix of cultures. British, French and West Indian influences all infuse their own charm and Dominica is home to the Eastern Caribbean’s largest Carib Indian community. Colorful Roseau, the main town and capital of the island, reflects these eclectic roots in its food, art, languages and customs.