Mount Alvernia

Mount Alvernia is the highest point on Cat Island and rises approximately 206 feet (63 meters) above sea level. A stone staircase climbs to a small monastery complex at the peak, featuring chapel spaces and religious structures.

Monsignor John Hawes built this monastery complex in 1939 using local stone to recreate a small medieval structure. The spiritual building has stood atop the summit for more than eight decades.

Pilgrims and visitors come to this place for spiritual reflection and religious significance. The small monastery complex at the summit draws those seeking moments of contemplation and connection to faith.

The summit is reachable from Cat Island airport by a moderate hike along a marked path. Good shoes and plenty of water are helpful, as the climb takes effort and the trail exposes you to direct sun.

Stone carvings depicting the Stations of the Cross line the climbing path as a form of spiritual guidance. From the top, the view sweeps across the entire island and surrounding ocean in all directions.

GPS coordinates: 24.29574,-75.40785

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:53