The Quill

The Quill is an extinct volcano on Sint Eustatius that rises roughly 600 meters above sea level with a cone-shaped profile. A deep crater at its summit is completely filled with dense tropical forest that covers the inner slopes and crater floor.

The volcanic activity occurred between 22,000 and 32,000 years ago, with the final eruption roughly 1,600 years ago. This long dormancy allowed the crater landscape to develop into a stable and heavily forested formation.

The Dutch settlers named this formation 'Kuil', meaning pit or hole, which evolved into its current English name. This choice makes sense when you look down into the massive crater that dominates the landscape.

Several marked trails lead to the summit and around the crater rim, with options available for different fitness levels. The paths are relatively well maintained, though the tropical climate means humid conditions and thick vegetation that require careful footing.

The crater interior holds a complete rainforest ecosystem with elephant ears, tree ferns, orchids, iguanas, and Caribbean hermit crabs. This variety of life thrives in the moist, sheltered crater environment that provides protected living conditions.