The Caribbean Island of Saint Lucia is compact enough that you can explore many of its highlights during one trip. With its idyllic beaches and intriguing landmarks, there’s plenty to see, and many areas offer excellent amenities with visitors in mind.
You will find contrasts between different parts of the island, with calmer beaches on the west coast. The east is better for surfers, as the Atlantic winds blow in. You will find areas of natural beauty in the south, while the more densely populated north is home to the capital, the port city of Castries.
If you visit Castries you will discover a diverse array of French and British architecture, with the island’s previous occupiers influencing street names too. Notable buildings include the Carnegie Library and the Castries Central Market, a popular attraction in itself.
Head to Morne Fortune and you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, which also offers a good range of restaurants, bars and shops, with street vendors rubbing shoulders with department stores. The international airport, George F.L. Charles Airport, can also be found in Castries. About 25 minutes’ drive away, the Rainforest Adventures ecological park provides activities including zip-wiring, birdwatching tours and guided walks.
Further north, the resort town of Rodney Bay is home to Reduit Beach and the peaceful Gros Islet Beach with its views out to Pigeon Island. This forested national park is one of the highlights of the island. Pigeon Island is connected to the mainland via a wide causeway, and its fortress and barracks are among its interesting sights. In Gros Islet village, you may also come across a regular Friday night street party, with local food and music adding to a lively atmosphere.
A natural phenomenon on the western side of the island, the Soufrière Volcano is quite a sight – the sulphur springs draw the crowds, and the nearby mud baths are a popular part of the visitor experience. Organised tours are available to show you the Soufrière Volcano, and the volcanic cones of the Pitons. Also in this area, these two peaks are the island’s most famous landmark, with winding forest trails taking you to the summits which reward an intense climb. The pretty town of Soufrière is mainly a stopping off point for these mighty attractions, but is a pleasant place to walk around.
Saint Lucia is a destination of note for bird lovers. All sorts of exotic species can be found around the island, the rare Saint Lucia Parrot being one to look out for. Follow the Des Cartiers Rainforest Trail of the Millet Bird Sanctuary, 20km south of Castries, or try the Quilesse Forest Reserve in the south east of the island.
