DISCOVER THE HIDDEN GEMS OF SAINT LUCIA – A COMPLETE GUIDE
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Saint Lucia
Lying in the East Caribbean between the islands of Martinique to the north and St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the south, this verdant island is made up of 70% rainforest and the famous twin peaks of the Pitons. Named Gros Piton and Petit Piton, they appear to be a mirage jutting out of the sea and towering 700 metres above the ocean, they form an unmistakable sight on the Saint Lucian skyline. The two peaks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer breathtaking vistas that seem almost otherworldly, but despite its daunting appearance, Gros Piton is accessible to hikers and if you’re up for a two-hour trek, offers stunning views of St. Vincent and Martinique on clear days.
Architectural Wonders and Cultural Heritage
With a diverse range of architectural styles that represent Saint Lucia’s eclectic history which spans over 2,000 years, the properties have morphed over time, and taken influence from various cultures, including the indigenous Kalinago people, the French and British colonies, and African slaves. This cultural melting pot has resulted in a unique architectural style that is both charming and diverse and you can still see traditional fisherman’s cottages, Caribbean-influenced homes that consist of wooden frames, corrugated iron roofs and colourful exteriors and impressive Plantation and Hacienda style homes with large grounds and lush gardens, dotting the hillsides.
Luxury Resorts with Breathtaking Views
With such delightful scenery, it’s no wonder that hotels are taking advantage of the views, and St Lucian hotels are renowned for their luxury. One of the most notable resorts is Cap Maison, which is perched on a breathtaking rock, offering panoramic views of Pigeon Island National Park. With just 50 rooms it’s an exclusive getaway boasting the laid-back ‘Naked Fisherman’ beach cove bar and grill, and their world-famous ‘Cliff at Cap’ restaurant is home to some of the island’s most coveted table reservations.
Jade Mountain offers out-of-this-world views of the Pitons
Jade Mountain: A Landmark of Luxury
Also worth a visit, is the seminal Jade Mountain; the lovechild of architect Nick Troubetzkoy who first visited the country in 1971. As soon as he set eyes on the plot overlooking the Pitons, he was smitten and the resulting property has become a quintessential St Lucian landmark. Perched above the 600-acre Anse Chastanet Beach resort, Jade Mountain offers out-of-this-world views from its suites which blend into the natural rock. You must make a reservation if you are not a guest of the property, but you can reserve a table at the Jade Mountain Club for a VIP treat.
Marigot Bay is a stunning resort with a marina
Marigot Bay Resort: History and Modern Luxury
Marigot Bay is a stunning resort with a marina situated on the west of the island. Dating back to the 17th century, it was a popular spot for pirates, but now the colonial-style hotel nods to the past but provides an upmarket range of accommodation with an infinity pool, private beach and excellent opportunities for hiking and kayaking and a handful of shops at the port.
The small fishing village of Anse la Raye
Vibrant Local Culture and Activities
Elsewhere, Saint Lucians get together every Friday for a ‘jump up’ at the famous ‘Friday Night Fish Fry’, which takes place in Gros Islet. Think of it like an extended street party where you eat barbecue fish on a stick and dance to Caribbean jams; or if you want to ease yourself into this a little more gently, head to the small fishing village of Anse la Raye, which has a weekly party, not as crowded or boisterous as Gros Islet, it is lively enough to give a taste of island “liming,” or hanging out with friends at the end of the workweek.
The island is also home to the internationally acclaimed annual Jazz and Arts Festival, which has been spicing up the island for the last 27 years. May has become a prominent date in any aficionado’s calendar – with visitors flocking from over 30 countries. However, it offers a lot more than jazz, you can expect art exhibitions, food and rum and a good dollop of Saint Lucian hospitality.
The south-western town of Soufrière
Day Trips and Adventures in Saint Lucia
There are plenty of day trips to enjoy to take in the island’s highlights. Located near the south-western town of Soufrière, is a volcano that has not erupted since the 1700s; yet, remarkably, it still creates a mud bath, where tourists flock to cover themselves in the goo and enjoy the detoxifying properties, which apparently also soften and rejuvenate your skin. Ideally, this will be followed with a dip in one of the island’s stunning waterfalls, which are normally included in a day trip.
Helen’s Daughter Farm: Sustainable Agriculture
For something more unusual, visit Helen’s Daughter Farm, which has been functioning for over 30 years. Take a tour and find out about sustainable agriculture practices and organic farming methods whilst chatting with the owner and enjoying a freshly plucked lunch. The farm is committed to a farm-to-table approach, which means they produce fresh produce for local consumption, and cater to local restaurants and markets, promoting local food systems as well as supporting local initiatives.
Divers can explore Anse Chastanet
Aquatic Adventures and Scenic Spots
From land to sea, Saint Lucia boasts expansive, natural reefs that create some of the most colourful and picturesque diving spots in the Caribbean. The most popular spot is situated on the Soufrière Marine Reserve where divers can explore Anse Chastanet and Coral Gardens, as well as the artificial reefs created by the Lesleen M and Daini Komoyaru shipwrecks. Whilst on the south (Atlantic) coast, kite surfers go gaga over the constant waves that bring hours of entertainment on their boards. One hotel which specialises in lessons and equipment hire is the Coconut Bay Resort and Spa which has direct access to the constant waves at Paradise Beach.
Action and adventure or rest, romance and relaxation – you’re sure to find what you’re searching for in this tropical paradise.
How to Get to Saint Lucia: Flights and Transportation
Fly to Saint Lucia UFV via British Airways. For the best dates, schedules and prices see Sky Scanner.
DISCOVER THE HIDDEN GEMS OF ST LUCIA
Words by Sara Darling
