Route: Christoffel Mountain Loop (Curaçao)

The Christoffel Mountain Loop is a twisty, paved, uninterrupted, single lane loop of approximately 12 kilometers, with short but very steep hills.  I would estimate that some of the hills are greater than 25% grade.  The lowest and highest points of the route are 15 and 175 meters respectively.

Location:  The entirety of the loop is contained within the boundaries of the Christoffel Park, and at the time of this writing, is the only FKT route established on the island nation of Curacao (just off the coast of Venezuela).  Note:  Although the loop is open to cars visiting the park, the traffic is light, and will not be an issue if the run is started early; say 7a to 7:30a.

Start/Finish: The Start/Finish is a white painted speed bump in the main parking lot which is located on the far side of the loop and is commonly used by hikers climbing Christoffel Mountain. See included image.

Christoffel Park:  There is more to do and see in Christoffel Park than the FKT.  In addition to the Mountain Car Loop, there in another loop and several hiking trails (the most popular being the climb to Christoffel Mountain Peak; the view at the top is spectacular.)  The park is designated as a natural nature reserve with flora and fauna that is unique to the island, and you are sure to see whiptail lizards, iguanas, Venezuelan Troupials, Yellow Orioles, and Caracaras.  If you are lucky, you may spot Curacao's white-tailed deer.

Lastly, the Landhuis Savonet is located on the grounds of the park: the Savonet Museum is a "must see".

For more information, see:  www.christoffelpark.org