The Hermitage.

Perched atop Mount Alvernia, the highest point in the Bahamas at 206 feet, The Hermitage is a miniature medieval monastery hand-built from local stone. Constructed in 1939 by Monsignor John Hawes—an architect-priest known as Father Jerome—the site is a feat of solitary craftsmanship inspired by Italian retreats. To reach the summit, visitors climb a steep stone staircase passing Father Jerome’s hand-carved reliefs of the Stations of the Cross. The architecture is intentionally scaled-down, featuring a tiny chapel, living quarters, and a bell tower that feel more like a sculptural artwork than a standard building. While the structural history is compelling, the primary draw is the 360-degree panoramic view of Cat Island’s shoreline, which is best experienced during the golden hour.