Andros Island
Andros Island, at 2300 square miles in size, is perhaps the largest tract of unexplored land in the Western hemisphere, and also the largest island in the Bahamas. A coral limestone formation, it is dominated by thick impenetrable bush, sliced in pieces by inland waterways, and edged by mangrove marsh. To the north are hardwood and pine forests--including Pine, Mahogany (Madeira), Horseflesh, and Lignum Vitae. Along the east coast are the fishing and diving grounds of the Andros Barrier Reef. On the West Coast are the pristine fishing flats of the Great Bahama Bank.
The Andros Barrier Reef, the third largest in the world and the second largest and most unexplored in the western hemisphere, stretches 140 miles along the east coast of the island and rims the Tongue of the Ocean, with its 6,000-foot drop-off. Additionally the island abounds in Blue Holes (underwater cave systems)--which have been the scene of some of the deepest underwater cave explorations in the world.
There are more than 60 known species of wild orchids, as well as endemic and migrating bird and butterfly populations. Other wildlife includes iguanas, wild boars and land crabs. The island has a population of approximately 10,000 people, most of them residing in small towns located on the eastern coast. The island itself is the great provider, with the main occupations being fishing and farming. In addition, the island has long traditions in boat building, straw work, sponging and wood carving.
Andros Highlights
- The island is 104 miles long by 40 miles wide
- More than 60 known species of wild orchids
- Over 200 species of birds
- Home of the Andros Barrier Reef, third largest in the world
- Hundreds of inland and ocean blue holes
- Known as "the Sleeping Giant" and "the Big Yard"
The Birding Isle
There are over 200 species of birds that inhabit the Bahamas, and its vast undeveloped land, is home to many of them. Among them are: The Bahama Woodstar, the West Indian Woodpecker, the Great Lizard Cuckoo, and the Bahamas Oriole. Small Hope guides often take guests to some of our favorite spots for some birding.
Androsia Batik
We are also the home of Androsia, the colorful handmade island clothing of the Bahamas. Begun in 1973 as a cottage industry by Rosi Birch, the Batik Factory is open weekdays for guest visitors to view the batik/dying and sewing process. Great deals on clothing and fabrics can be found at both the Factory Outlet Store and the boutique at Small Hope Bay Lodge, both located near Fresh Creek.
Life in the Bush
Much of the island is covered with thick bush and pine. Bush medicines and teas, such as Bagerina (Bay Geranium), Jackmada, Jumbey, Cerasee, Grannybush, Fever Grass, etc. are still commonly used in medicinal recipes handed down in lore. The bush also provides a food source--most popularly the Land Crab, and less commonly the wild boar.
The island is laced with thousands of miles of inland waterways and fishing flats. North, Middle and South Bights cut right through the island, east to west, creating a natural access to even more flats on the west side of the island. These provide world-class conditions for fly fishermen in pursuit of bonefish and tarpon.
In addition, a rich mythology has grown around the bush. The Chickcharnee, the most famous of the mythological creatures of the island, is said to live in the tops of the tallest pine trees. If you cross the Chickcharnee, he will turn your head on backwards. Other lesser known mythological creatures include the Lusca of the blue holes, the Bosee Anansee, and the Yahoo.
Built and operated by the Birch Family since 1960, this 21-room resort offers a variety of ways for visitors to explore. The Lodge emphasizes freedom from crowds, a low-impact lifestyle and a natural environment.
