rickv114
Although maps make this side of the island appear to be inaccessible, there are actually many ways you can get here and enjoy the natural beauty of this rugged side of the island. Frankly, it was one of my favourite parts of our recent visit. You can rent an SUV or Jeep, and ATV or "dune buggy", take a horseback tour, hike, rent a mountain bike ( that was my choice), or even hike ( though you would want to know the trails to get to your destination). I wasn't aware that the main natural bridge had collapsed, but was pleased to make it to the "Baby Bridge" formation by mountain bike, coming down the east side of the island from the lighthouse. Although you are cycling into a pretty solid head wind this direction, the scenery just gets better and better the further south you go, and the payback of a nice tailwind on your return route is worth it. This natural bridge is probably the highlight of the ride, but it is just one of many photo-worthy spots. One suggestion for the Aruba Tourism Bureau ( if such an agency exists), maybe send someone out now and then to do a little cleanup at these sights. Admittedly most of the garbage littered about likely comes from tourists, but it would help the natural beauty shine through if it was a little cleaner. If you are at Baby Bridge, take the couple of minutes to climb up top ( with decent shoes on, not flip-flops), it's worth it. Check out the 4' wide fossil thing up top there. No idea what it is (!), but it's pretty cool!You may not think of Aruba as a mountain bike destination, but if you are here and wanting to ride, just loop around the lighthouse, and head south along the jeep track, it's worth it. Just go out early in the am to beat the heat, and do NOT ride in the residential neighbourhoods - packs of semi-wild dogs make that a disctinctly unpleasant experience ( trust me on this)