By Karine Rochdi
The tropical forest and the winding roads that lead from the sea to the mountains, passing through a few clouds along the way, make a visit to Saint Lucia an idyllic experience. Every stop offers incredible views. These 10 must-see spots will have you falling under the spell of this volcanic Caribbean island nation.
1. Gros Piton and Petit Piton: The Jewels of the Island
These iconic mountains, two volcanic spires that rise from the water, are hard to miss. They’re a symbol of the country and appear on its flag. You can admire them in all their splendour from a water taxi or a catamaran, but athletic types can discover them by hiking to the top, which takes a few hours.
2. Soufrière: An Original
After the British took Saint Lucia from the French and made Castries the capital city, Soufrière, the former capital, kept its French name. The town charms visitors with its colourful houses and picturesque appeal. A stop at the main square allows you to admire the attractive Church of the Assumption. In the surrounding area, you’ll find several tourist sites and activities to add to your itinerary.
3. Tet Paul Nature Trail
This trail takes about an hour to walk and is accessible to everyone. The loop offers views of the surrounding hills and mountains, dotted with brightly coloured Creole houses. The two magnificent Pitons appear here from a different angle. Local guides offer their services to introduce visitors to the medicinal plants and exotic fruits found along the path.
4. Gros Islet: Jump Up!
On Friday evenings, lots of tourists and locals gather at the Friday Night Jump Up Street Party on Gros Islet. At nightfall, the narrow streets of this fishing village take on a festive air. It’s time to enjoy grilled seafood and fish along with typical local dishes prepared in street-food stands while music plays in the background.
5. Sugar Beach
This small beach is tucked between the famous Pitons, providing a front-row seat for observing them up close. This is a popular spot, but its beauty makes it worth the detour. You don’t have to be a guest at the luxurious Sugar Beach Resort, which occupies a large part of the site, to bask on the beach—on Saint Lucia, all beaches are public. It’s easiest to access the site by sea, either by joining a tour or taking a water taxi. If you arrive by road, the hotel allows non-residents to park for free if there’s room. At this beach, the show also takes place below the surface: the bay has a marine reserve that makes it an underwater paradise—pure joy for snorkellers.
6. Irresistible Marigot Bay
Surrounded by mountains, Marigot Bay is known to be a former hideout for pirates. The area is home to several hotels, restaurants, and bars as well as a marina with sailboats and luxury yachts. The swimming area is limited, however, given the narrow beach. On the north side of the bay, some accommodations and stores are accessible only by boat, which adds an exotic touch to the trip.
7. Swimming at Reduit Beach
This lovely stretch of white sand is found in the popular seaside town of Rodney Bay. You’ll find resorts for every taste here. You can do various water sports, such as sailing, kayaking, and jet skiing. Swimmers get a wonderful view of Pigeon Island, an islet joined to Saint Lucia by a man- made causeway.
8. Pigeon Island National Park
You can’t visit Saint Lucia without exploring Pigeon Island National Park. Here you’ll find the ruins and cannons of a former British military base. This was the scene of clashes between the English and the French, who fought for control of the island for two centuries. A panoramic view awaits you at the top of the two hills. On a clear day, you can even spot the island of Martinique to the north. Take the opportunity to go for a dip or go snorkelling at the park’s small beaches.
9. Anse Chastanet and Anse Cochon Beaches
The contrast between the black sand and the turquoise waters makes this part of the country famous. An impressive marine world also awaits you, especially at Anse Cochon. Diving masks are a must. Note that the road to Anse Chastanet beach is very bumpy; it’s easier to get there by water taxi from Soufrière.
10. Castries Market: A Flavour Explosion
In Castries, at the north end of the island, you’ll find Saint Lucia’s largest outdoor market. National Geographic ranks it third in the world. Stroll among some 300 stalls, where you’ll find the usual displays of clothing, crafts, souvenirs, and jewellery but also intriguing stands featuring spices, sauces, and tropical fruits and vegetables, most of which are unfamiliar to Canadians. It’s also an opportunity to taste dishes with English, Caribbean, French, and Indian influences, such as green fig and saltfish, the country’s national dish, which is made from green bananas and served with salted cod.
