Cottage

Cottage is a rural village situated on the northwest coast of Dominica, forming a central part of the Cottage Constituency. This settlement lies between Lamothe River and Cottage Ravine, with the surrounding landscape characterised by fertile valleys and ravines that flow westward into Lamothe Bay and Anse Crainté. The village is directly south of Toucarí and north of Clifton, and its proximity to the Caribbean Sea has long shaped its culture, economy, and community life.

Geography, Community and Economy

Cottage had a population of approximately 279 residents (including neighboring Cocoyer) as recorded in the 2011 census. The region is framed by greenery and the towering Morne aux Diables mountain to the east. Agriculture, coastal access, and close community ties define daily life. While not a tourism hub, its seaside character enriches the it’s story of resilience.

The village’s local governance is administered by the Tantan/Toucarie/Cottage/Savanne Paille Village Council and the economy traditionally revolves around farming and fishing, with smallholder agriculture providing much of the food supply for locals. The fertile soils allow for the cultivation of bananas, root crops, and seasonal vegetables provides livelihoods for several families. Cottage is also influenced by nearby Toucarí, a coastal community with strong fishing traditions. Increasingly, eco-tourism initiatives have highlighted the area’s natural attractions, and hiking trails like the Segment #14 of the Waitukubuli National Trail as points of attraction.

Cultural Identity

Cottage retains a strong cultural identity, with music, festivals, and community gatherings reflecting the village’s close-knit spirit. Traditional practices such as fishing cooperatives and small farming groups highlight the cooperative values of the community. Its location, at the heart of Dominica’s northwestern coast, places it among a cluster of settlements that balance agricultural tradition with modern aspirations for sustainable growth.