Stone terrace
On the top.
CareAhLine — CC0 · CareAhLine — CC0 · CareAhLine — CC0 · CareAhLine — CC0
Fort Karl is the ruin of an old fort on a small hill about 29 m above Gustavia, capital of Saint Barthélemy, less than half a kilometre from the town centre. It overlooks little Shell Beach, south of the harbour. It is named after Karl, brother of King Gustav III of Sweden, who later ruled Sweden himself from 1809 to 1818. It was one of three forts that surrounded Gustavia in the Swedish period of the 18th century; only ruins remain today, and since 2007 the site has belonged to France's coastal protection agency. Visitors climb to the fort by steps and a short path among cacti and dry scrub, reaching an open stone terrace on the top. It looks out over the sea, Shell Beach and small islands on the horizon, and it is popular with walkers for being so close to town. The visit is free. The climb is short but exposed to the sun, so go in the morning or before sunset, and combine it with a trip down to Shell Beach below.
On the top.
And islands.
Below the hill.
Gustavia, St. Barthélemy
Yes.
A few minutes from town.
