St. Lucia is famous for its jaw-dropping beauty and romantic ambience, but there is so much more to this vibrant island country. There are so many opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. Explore lush rainforests with an experienced botanist or soar through treetops on a zip line for an exhilarating rush! Soak in the buzz of local markets, dine-in oceanfront restaurants and share a cocktail on sun-drenched shores. Whether you’re hungry for a hike or prefer to spend a sleepy afternoon swaying on a hammock, there’s something for everyone here.
The forest-cloaked twin pitons of St. Lucia soar around 2,500 feet above the island. The pitons are emblematic of St. Lucia and are so magnificent that they have been awarded the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Gros Piton has a popular hiking trail, and the views at the top are out of this world. However, if climbing up these majestic monuments isn’t for you, set sail on a boat trip from Piton Bay to enjoy spectacular views of these natural wonders.
The Soufriere Volcano in Sulphur Springs Park is the Lesser Antilles’ most active geothermal area. It’s also home to the only drive-in volcano in the Caribbean thanks to a road that traverses the crater. Though the last eruption was yonks ago, sulphur is still vented into the air and bubbling pools of water. Take a soak in the warm pools and a dip in mud baths and marvel at Mother Nature’s powerful handiwork.
Pack your camera for the amazingly colourful Diamond Falls, where minerals in the river (copper, sulphur, magnesium, iron) have created a burst of different colours in the rock. You can take a dip in the hot spring baths here, which were famously once used by King Louis XVI’s troops. You can also follow the nature trail to the old mill and waterwheel which date back to the 1700’s.
The Saint Lucia National Trust describe Pigeon Island as a ‘living museum with a natural setting’. Covering 44 acres, it’s a fascinating place: originally inhabited by Amerindians, used by the famous wooden-legged pirate Francois Le Clerc for plundering ships and the site of many battles between the French and English. In the seventies, it was connected to the mainland by the thoroughfare and crowned a National Park. Access usually costs around £5, and once in, you can explore ruined military buildings that look out over the coastline. Find out more about the island’s history from the Interpretation Centre.
Situated in on the northwest coast, Rodney Bay marina is picturesque, glamorous, and prestigious. With a variety of dining options and waterfront bars, this is the ideal place to enjoy lunch with friends or watch the sunset over the lagoon with a partner. If you want to carry on the night in style, head to the casino!
Every Friday night the roads of Gros Islet town are closed off and a street party takes over! This Jump Up party has taken place weekly for more than 50 years. Sample local street food and dance all night to the sounds of the Caribbean.
Splash Island is an incredible combination of water park and inflatable obstacle-course. It features trampolines, climbing walls, swings, slides, hurdles and much more. You’ll find it on Reduit Beach, along the northwest coast. Be sure to head down and join in some water volleyball!
Wind your way up the stairway to heaven on the Tet Paul Nature Trail, magnificent views, beautiful scenery and cultural landmarks await. Along the trail you’ll not only witness natural beauty, but also learn about St. Lucia’s ecosystem, history and culture. After taking in the idyllic surroundings, you’ll be invited to an intimate picnic area to enjoy a delicious lunch.
In about half an hour’s drive east from Castries, you’re in another world entirely. Take the Aerial Tram up into a spectacular ecological park, zoom between the trees on a zip line, head off on a hike or join a birdwatching tour.
Famously one of the most beautiful bays in the Caribbean, this small natural harbour is surrounded by mangroves and sheltered by steep hills. It famously starred in Doctor Dolittle (the bit with the giant pink snail).