“I thoroughly enjoy coming here. The tremendous variation in nature makes it special. It is good, for once, to be able to say that.” These were the words of Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands, spoken during her 2019 visit to St. Eustatius. Perhaps her sentiments will inspire you to discover, on foot, the best-kept secret of what used to be the Dutch Antilles. In this book you will find:■ Over 20 walks/hikes, trail-running routes and off-road routes to captivate you.■ Historical, cultural and practical information as well as impressions of St. Eustatius - or Statia, as its residents lovingly call their island.■ Contemplations and observations of a nature lover.■ Practical tips about walking/hiking and running in the tropics.This book is for those who are interested in hiking or running this open-air tropical museum, especially if they would like to broaden their experience with historical information, everyday observations, and helpful tips. You don’t need to be an ardent hiker. You can be a “lazy-boy” adventurer. Whether you are here for work or on vacation, a beginner or expert, are limited to an hour or two or have entire days to explore, I hope you will seize the opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of the island.Marion Schroen is an avid and passionate hiker and trail runner. She has explored in brief and at length Curaçao, St. Maarten, Saba, Columbia, Venezuela, New Hampshire’s White Mountains, Vermont’s Long Trail, as well as New York’s and Maine’s segments of the Appalachian Mountain Trail. She worked on behalf of the Netherlands in St. Eustatius in a two-year advisory position. This gave her the opportunity to appreciate the island and to explore it in depth on-foot. She regards Statia as an exciting mix of hikelights from all her previous hiking adventures. With every breath she appreciates the island. With a keen eye for details small and large, she shares her experiences of the “Golden Rock”.As Charles Lindo, Director of St. Eustatius’s Office of Tourism remarks, “Hiking with Marion is always an adventure.” With this book, you can begin to hike with her.