Napoleon's Tomb Sane Valley
Visit the serene Sane Valley, the original burial site of Napoleon Bonaparte, on the remote and historic island of Saint Helena.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Tranquil and remote island
Napoleon's Tomb Sane Valley
Best Time
Tranquil and remote island
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Visit the serene Sane Valley, the original burial site of Napoleon Bonaparte, on the remote and historic island of Saint Helena.
"A humbling experience to stand where Napoleon was buried; very tranquil and a privilege few have had."
✈️ Book Travel Early
Flights to Saint Helena are infrequent. Book your tickets months in advance to secure your spot on this remote island.
🚶♀️ Respect the Serenity
The Sane Valley is a place of quiet reflection. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the natural beauty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Napoleon's Original Grave
Sane Valley
A serene and humbling spot where the Emperor was first laid to rest. Experience the tranquility of his final exile.
Longwood House
Longwood
The former residence of Napoleon during his exile. Explore the rooms and gardens where he spent his final years.
The Briars
The Briars
The first residence of Napoleon on Saint Helena. A charming estate offering a glimpse into his initial days of exile.
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Planning Your Visit
The Journey to Saint Helena
Napoleon's Final Resting Place
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✈️ Book Travel Early
Flights to Saint Helena are infrequent. Book your tickets months in advance to secure your spot on this remote island.
🚶♀️ Respect the Serenity
The Sane Valley is a place of quiet reflection. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the natural beauty.
🚗 Explore with a Guide
Hiring a local guide can enhance your understanding of Napoleon's history on the island.
☕ Enjoy Local Coffee
The island's locals offer excellent coffee and honey. Don't miss out on these local delights.
Tips
from all over the internet
✈️ Book Travel Early
Flights to Saint Helena are infrequent. Book your tickets months in advance to secure your spot on this remote island.
🚶♀️ Respect the Serenity
The Sane Valley is a place of quiet reflection. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the natural beauty.
🚗 Explore with a Guide
Hiring a local guide can enhance your understanding of Napoleon's history on the island.
☕ Enjoy Local Coffee
The island's locals offer excellent coffee and honey. Don't miss out on these local delights.
💡 Know Before You Go
Napoleon's body is no longer here, but the historical significance remains profound.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Saint Helena's Sane Valley a deeply moving and tranquil place, despite Napoleon's body no longer being interred there. The journey to the island is long but rewarding, with locals praised for their warmth and helpfulness. The historical significance of the sites, combined with the island's unique charm, makes for a memorable experience.
"Very impressive valley. Since France take the rest of Napoleon’s body from his grave from this tiny but very charming island, the main place to visit is where he lived until he passed away. Still they keep most of the original bed, bath and part of the furniture and plus beautiful gardens around. Local people are amazing. Very helpful and natural. They have excellent coffee and honey. Only 4000 people are living in this forgotten island by UK."
Prof.Dr.L Toka
"I have George Washington's grave in my backyard. I have set up a tour that takes you around the block. Starts at the deli...then past the cannabis store...down to the bar for a free drink of seltzer...then to my yard where the grave is... all for only $2500 dollars an hour. Hopefully you catch the day when George is actually here. He comes and goes ya know!"
Steevo Leppard
"What a humbling experience it has been to stand where Napoleon was buried. You are not allowed directly in the ground however there is a separate trail which leads you to a viewing parapet. If you kept really quiet, your surrounding forest comes alive. Very tranquil and definitely a privilege that few have had to visit this now empty grave of where the great Emperor was initially laid to rest."
Zachary Loh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Saint Helena is primarily via flights from Johannesburg, South Africa, or by sea. Due to the island's remote location, travel arrangements must be made well in advance.
The island is small, but transport options are limited. Renting a car or hiring a taxi is recommended for exploring sites like Sane Valley and Longwood House.
Napoleon's original burial site is located in Sane Valley, accessible by road from Jamestown. It's a serene spot, often visited as part of a historical tour of the island.
Yes, the RMS St Helena used to offer passenger services, but flights are now the primary mode of transport. Check current schedules for any available sea routes.
The currency is the Saint Helena Pound (SHP), which is pegged to the British Pound Sterling. ATMs are available in Jamestown.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Sane Valley and Napoleon's original grave site is generally free, allowing for quiet reflection. However, access to Longwood House and The Briars may require admission fees.
Opening hours for Longwood House and The Briars can vary. It's advisable to check the official Saint Helena tourism website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information.
The Sane Valley is accessible during daylight hours. For specific historical residences like Longwood House, adhere to their posted operating times.
Yes, local guides are available and highly recommended to provide historical context and insights into Napoleon's life on the island.
The Sane Valley itself, where Napoleon was initially buried, is typically open and free to visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see the empty grave site where Napoleon Bonaparte was first interred. The area is known for its tranquility and natural beauty, offering a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation.
No, visitors cannot enter the grave itself. There is a viewing parapet or trail that allows you to see the site from a respectful distance.
Visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to appreciate the scenery. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer a more serene experience.
Basic facilities might be limited at the Sane Valley itself. It's advisable to use restrooms in Jamestown before heading out.
Saint Helena has a mild, subtropical climate year-round. Expect pleasant temperatures, but be prepared for occasional wind and rain.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene landscape of Sane Valley, the historical significance of the empty grave, and the surrounding lush greenery.
Photography rules inside historical buildings like Longwood House can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask permission from staff before taking pictures.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for landscape shots of Sane Valley.
Drone usage is often restricted in sensitive historical or protected areas. Check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile camera with a good lens for landscapes and historical details would be ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for the valley views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that travel to Saint Helena is lengthy, which might be challenging for very young children. Focus on the historical narratives and the unique environment of this isolated island to make the trip engaging for older children interested in history.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond Napoleon, the island has a rich history as a strategic outpost, with remnants of fortifications and tales of maritime significance. Engaging with local guides can unlock even more layers of historical context, making for an incredibly rewarding visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Napoleon's Exile on Saint Helena
During his exile, Napoleon resided primarily at Longwood House, a former military post that was adapted to suit his needs. His days were filled with writing his memoirs, receiving visitors, and engaging in disputes with his British captors. The conditions at Longwood were often described as damp and uncomfortable, contributing to his declining health.
Napoleon's initial burial took place in Sane Valley, a picturesque and tranquil spot chosen by him. However, in 1840, his remains were exhumed and returned to France, where they were interred with great ceremony at Les Invalides in Paris. The Sane Valley site remains a poignant reminder of his final years and the historical significance of Saint Helena.
Exploring Saint Helena's Historical Sites
The Briars was Napoleon's first home on the island, a more modest estate where he stayed for a few months before moving to Longwood. It provides a contrast to the larger residence and offers insight into his initial adjustment to exile. The grounds are also beautifully maintained.
Other sites of interest include Plantation House, the Governor's residence, and various fortifications that speak to the island's strategic importance. The entire island is steeped in history, from its geological formation to its role in maritime trade and military history.
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