I
n
a region of beautiful islands, St. Lucia stands out as one of the loveliest. This
volcanic Caribbean island is more mountainous that most, and the forested
slopes make a stunning contrast to the blue water and beaches of white or dark
volcanic sand.
The
islands’ signature twin mountain peaks, the Pitons, emerge dramatically from
the sea, rising almost a half a mile into the sky. Near the base of the Pitons
is the town of Soufriere, the island’s capital when it was a French colony. After
admiring the colorful buildings adorned with decorative gingerbread trim, be
sure to visit the Soufriere Drive-in Volcano. Don’t worry – the volcano is
dormant, but there are plenty of steam vents and colorful sulphur pools (but,
be prepared for the rather strong smell of sulphur).
The
island’s current capital, Castries, is the place to browse for duty-free goods
like designer perfume and fine crystal, or for hand-made local crafts and
souvenirs.
Pigeon
Island has served as the home of Carib Indians, a hideout for pirates and a
battlefield where the French and the English fought for control of St. Lucia. Visit
the museum on the island, located in the restored British officers’ mess
building, to learn more about its history. A hike to the ruins of Fort Rodney
will provide great views.
Anse
de Pitons, the beach nestled between the twin peaks, is a good place to swim, snorkel
or dive. The snorkeling and diving is also great at Anse Cochon, where there’s a
sunken ship to explore in addition to a reef teeming with colorful marine life.
You can go whale-watching, dolphin-watching or try some deep-sea fishing. Take
a helicopter tour over the scenic island, or stay on the ground at the public
golf course of St. Lucia Golf Resort & Country Club. If you love waterfalls,
plan a hike through the island’s protected rainforest to see some beautiful
falls.
Cruises
that call on St. Lucia usually call on other islands in the Windward and
Leeward Groups of the Western Antilles, such as Martinique, Guadeloupe and St.
Kitts. To learn more about how you can cruise to these and other gorgeous Caribbean
islands, talk with your Cruise Holiday’s personal cruise expert.
