Saint Lucia isn’t referred to as the Helen of the West for nothing – the island actually switched political allegiances seven occasions between French and the British guidelines. Solely in 1814 did the British take definitive management, one thing that would depart an enduring mark on the island.
Corresponding to Helen of Troy in magnificence, the tagline suits this small island which has, since occasions of warfare, turn into impartial, and self-sustainable. The Saint Lucia that’s marketed at present is one which has grown leaps and bounds, and nonetheless manages to carry onto parts each distinctively English, and unmistakably French.
Insider tip: Keep at one of many Sandals all-inclusive resorts in Saint Lucia, and get entry to all three resorts and two golf programs (inexperienced charges included)! This contains free transfers between the resorts and a complete of 27 spectacular eating places on-property.
There may be a lot to understand about Saint Lucia and the issues the island is thought for, together with its majestic Piton Mountains, drive-in volcano, refreshing waterfalls, spectacular mountain climbing trails, lovely seashores, native avenue events and unique eating places.
There are a lot of different issues Saint Lucia is thought for, and we’ve taken the freedom to element the most well-liked!
On this article on this Sandals weblog:
19 things Saint Lucia is known for
Seven authentic souvenirs to bring home with you
Three interesting facts about Saint Lucia
Simply beautiful
19 issues Saint Lucia is thought for
The Piton Mountains
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Irrespective of what number of occasions you see them, the Pitons stay as awe-inspiring as the primary time. First time viewers, nonetheless, are more likely to be particularly blown away at how majestic these twin peaks are in actual life, notably when taking them in shut up in both of the 2 cities the place they’re positioned.
Yup, certainly, Gros Piton and Petit Piton as they’re identified, could be present in two completely different areas on the island, Soufriere and Choiseul to be precise. They’re in such exact positions, that from varied angles they appear to be spouting up facet by facet, which makes a sighting of them much more outstanding. The Pitons are a World Heritage Web site, with Gros Piton standing at 2,619ft, being the taller of the 2.
Whereas in Saint Lucia, say sure to a chance to climb the Pitons, as that is an expertise you gained’t quickly neglect. Guided excursions can be found to the highest of Gros Piton, whereas Petit Piton rising 2,425ft is a steeper and more difficult climb, with a lot much less mountain climbing site visitors to the highest.
If you happen to’re not up for climbing the Pitons, think about taking a catamaran cruise round these majestic landmarks which is able to enable you get shut sufficient to take nice pictures.
The Sulphur Spring mud baths
The Sulphur Springs in Soufriere are sometimes described as the one drive-in volcano within the Caribbean, and presumably the world. That is an lively geothermal space, a lot in order that there are effervescent mud baths, and steaming vents.
The preferred factor to do on the Sulphur Springs is to dip right into a mud bathtub, which is each therapeutic and enjoyable. The Sulphur Springs is the perfect place to study concerning the creation of the volcanic Caribbean islands, and the advantages of soaking within the springs, that are excessive in minerals. Attempt the Saint Lucian mud bathtub expertise for a pure and economical spa remedy that’s additionally a great time. Guests planning on going into the mud bathtub are inspired to put on bathing fits that they don’t thoughts getting stained!
Attractive seashores
Although Saint Lucia is a volcanic island, this nation boasts among the most lovely white/golden sand seashores within the Caribbean. In actual fact, the seashores at Anse Chastanet, Marigot Bay Seashore and Rodney Bay are among the many most gorgeous on the earth. Convey a couple of swimsuit/boardshorts to make sure you’re at all times seashore prepared!
Insider tip: Need to keep close to the seashore? Sandals Grande Saint Lucian Beach Resort & Spa is positioned on one of the crucial lovely stretches of white sand seashore in Saint Lucia. Company of this luxury all-inclusive resort can take pleasure in limitless free cocktails, gourmand meals, watersports, golf and extra. With 12 gourmet restaurants on-property to select from, you possibly can eat one thing completely different daily!
Domestically grown chocolate
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Chocolate is the magic phrase that always mends hearts, and in Saint Lucia you possibly can attempt genuine, domestically grown chocolate on the historical past packed Morne Coubaril or Fond Doux Plantation. At both of those spots you possibly can get into the chocolate making motion and take a cocoa tour throughout which you’ll study concerning the cocoa making course of whereas nibbling on recent cocoa pods alongside the best way. Probably the most hands-on a part of this exercise is certainly crushing cocoa beans as you try and make your individual chocolate bar, however it should all be value it in the long run!
Lush rainforests
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Saint Lucia has hundreds of acres of rainforest ready to be explored. This makes it a nice alternative for vacationers who need to go on mountain climbing expeditions, or no less than go to a rainforest to get extra in tune with nature. Over 70% of the island consists of rainforest, which is outstanding contemplating some areas on the island are way more developed than lots of the smaller islands of the area.
Nature trails and rainforest hikes
Talking of mountain climbing, there are fairly a number of choices relating to exploring the Saint Lucian rainforest by foot; you possibly can go to locations just like the Edmund Forest Reserve which could be accessed by the use of Fond St. Jacques in Soufriere and takes about three to 4 hours to navigate, or trek alongside the Barre de l’Isle Forest Reserve which is a comparatively simple stroll, with nice views alongside the best way. You may as well attempt the well-known Tet Paul Nature Path, which isn’t very strenuous, and takes about 45 minutes. Guides are vital in most situations relating to mountain climbing in Saint Lucia, and in some circumstances, you will have to get permission from the Forestry Division.
Lovely botanical gardens
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Get away from all of it on the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens in Soufriere, the place you possibly can soak up tropical flowers, and an entire lot of greenery. The Botanical Gardens is a mellow tour cease on the island, which is usually explored concurrently with the Diamond Falls, a picturesque waterfall positioned within the south of the island.
Spectacular helicopter excursions
See Saint Lucia from an aerial perspective with a helicopter tour. Some guests work the helicopter tour into their airport transfers, making the switch to their resort into an attraction itself. You are able to do a helicopter tour from the north to the south, and on most excursions, you’ll have a educated pitot who can reply all of your questions concerning the island. As you soar by the skies, be aware of all of the attention-grabbing belongings you see alongside the best way, and take a number of spectacular pictures!
A historical past of Indians
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The Arawaks are stated to have been the primary settlers to Saint Lucia, although from historic accounts, there might have been natives residing on the island even earlier than the Arawaks arrived. It’s believed that the Arawaks referred to as the island Iouanalao, which interprets to ‘Land of the Iguanas’, due to the multitude of iguanas roaming about. There aren’t as many iguanas on the island anymore, however the story and particulars of the historical past of the Arawaks and the Caribs who arrived later, nonetheless dwell on at present. The Caribs referred to Saint Lucia as Hewanarau, and Hewanorra, the latter which serves because the identify of the island’s worldwide airport in Vieux Fort.
A historical past of piracy
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Many Caribbean islands have a stunning historical past of piracy, and Saint Lucia is a type of. The identify of French pirate François le Clerc (generally known as Jambe de Bois) comes up loads in Saint Lucia, as does the story about him organising camp on Pigeon Island, from which vantage he was in a position to assault Spanish ships crusing within the space.
There are additionally stories of Blackbeard utilizing the waters of Saint Lucia to plunder ships, and of the infamous pirate stashing his bounty in Vieux Fort. The bounty stashing claims have by no means been confirmed, nor has any hidden treasure been discovered, however many islands suffered for some time within the pirate period, which fortuitously is one thing that has been left within the far distant previous of Saint Lucia.
Pigeon Island Nationwide Park and Fort Rodney
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Pigeon Island was as soon as simply that, an island, which was linked after cautious thought to the mainland by way of a causeway. Pigeon Island is filled with historical past, notably the Pigeon Island Nationwide Park, dwelling to Fort Rodney. Aside from pirates like Jambe de Bois making the world well-known for all of the unsuitable causes, Fort Rodney throughout the Nationwide Park was as soon as a British garrison. Whereas within the park you’ll be capable to discover trails, ruins, and seashores, and even perhaps picnic within the broad expanse of house within the park. Pigeon Island Nationwide Park is a 5-minute stroll from Sandals Grande St. Lucian.
Castries colonial fort Morne Fortuné
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Morne Fortune means ‘Hill of Good Luck’, and the world simply exterior Castries has many spectacular viewing factors. Again in 1803-1844, through the time when the British had designated capital Castries as a serious naval port, fortifications have been constructed on Morne Fortune, which overlooks town. These fortifications have been vital within the battles between the French and the British, and most of them nonetheless stand at present. A visit to Morne Fortune is worth it to see a few of what has been left behind from that period, and to take a look at locations like Authorities Home on the northern facet of the Morne, which is the official residence of Saint Lucia’s Governor Common.
Picturesque Marigot Bay
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There are a lot of issues Saint Lucia is thought for, and the postcard worthy Marigot Bay is a type of. The Bay is without doubt one of the most breathtaking in Saint Lucia, made much more particular by its peaceable ambiance and putting panorama. One of many finest methods to view Marigot Bay is by boat, and also you’ll be swooning as you sail into the Marigot Bay Marina. Marigot Bay was prominently featured within the 1967 Physician Doolittle film, and at present it stays simply as lovely or much more so than it was then.
Unique birdwatching
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Even the birds understand that Saint Lucia is paradise, and that is clear within the multitude of hen species that may be discovered on the island, together with six endemic species. A few of the endemic birds that may be discovered on the island are the Saint Lucia Parrot, generally known as the Amazona Versicolor, the Saint Lucia Oriole, and the Saint Lucia Pewee. All in all, there are 180 sorts of birds on the island, and one of the best locations to hen watch or discover out extra concerning the completely different species are the Millet Fowl Sanctuary, the Vieux Fort Wetlands, and the Des Cartiers Rainforest Path.
Wonderful scuba diving and snorkeling
Scuba diving and snorkeling are nice causes to trip within the Caribbean, and Saint Lucia is without doubt one of the finest islands to do each due to the vibrant reefs that may be present in waters across the island. A few of the hottest locations to dive are the Piton Wall, Anse Cochon, Coral Gardens, and Anse Chastanet, to call a number of. If you happen to’re planning on snorkeling or scuba diving in Saint Lucia, don’t fear an excessive amount of about bringing your individual gear, as you possibly can lease some on the island. Sightings when snorkeling in Saint Lucia embody turtles, rays, wrecks, and extra.
Insider tip: Keep at any of the three all-inclusive Sandals Resorts in Saint Lucia, the place PADI® licensed visitors scuba dive for free (max. two tanks per visitor a day). This contains skilled gear and workers! Not but PADI® licensed? You will get your certification on the resort at further value.
Lovely waterfalls
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There’s nothing like a cascading waterfall set in opposition to a spectacular tropical backdrop to set your thoughts relaxed. In Saint Lucia, you possibly can witness a number of of these, together with the Toraille Waterfall which flows 50 ft down right into a pool that you could dip into, the Diamond Falls, or the Piton Falls. There are a lot of different waterfalls on the island, some that are more durable to get to than others, and require a information. One of the best ways to discover Saint Lucia’s waterfalls is by way of a tour, which can even give you a chance to navigate nature trails along with your tour group or information.
Friday evening events on the “Fish Fry”
Saint Lucians like to get together, and Gros Islet and Anse La Raye are two communities on the island the place you possibly can expertise the widespread Saint Lucia avenue get together. In Gros Islet, each Friday evening grills are fired up and audio system are mounted up within the streets in anticipation of an evening of partying and enjoyable. This occasion has gone on for years and is named the Gros Islet Avenue Get together.
Sometimes you’ll discover dwell performances, however each evening there’s a DJ spinning the most well-liked Caribbean and worldwide tracks. Anse La Raye on the west coast has an analogous avenue get together on Friday nights, however this occasion is named a “Fish Fry”, and right here seafood lovers can take pleasure in quite a lot of grilled meals together with crayfish, stewed fish, lobster and engaging native sides. You may as well get objects like roasted corn and scorching bakes.
The Anse La Raye Fish Fry is extra concerning the meals than Gros Islet Friday Evening, although each occasions are nice for meals and enjoyable. These occasions are each normally properly attended by locals and guests and are the proper alternative to attempt the native beer, which in Saint Lucia’s case, is Piton beer! Dennery on the east coast additionally has an analogous occasion, the place you possibly can dance to Reggae and Dancehall music all evening and get an opportunity to listen to Saint Lucia’s widespread ‘Dennery Section’, which is taking the music world by storm.
Driving horses on the seashore
Horse using on the seashore is one thing you possibly can take pleasure in by yourself, with mates, or with children. Normally excursions of this nature begin off on the stables, the place riders get an opportunity to get comfy with their horses. After that, it’s onto the path which ends up in the seashore. If you happen to see your horse heading towards the water whenever you get to the seashore, don’t panic; it’s all a part of the tour. The horses are properly skilled, and easily love cooling off on an area seashore simply as a lot as the common human. Most horse-riding excursions are about two hours lengthy, so plan accordingly. Attempt Atlantic Shores Stables in Vieux Fort, Hoofprint Ranch in Roseau Valley, or any of the native stables in Cas En Bar.
Native open-air markets
Castries is probably not essentially the most trendy metropolis, but it surely actually is bustling. From Monday to Saturday you’ll discover a number of exercise within the metropolis heart, notably on the Castries Market, or the Arcade. The Market is the place to go for recent fruits, greens, and native spices, whereas you’ll find practically any memento you possibly can consider on the Arcade. A visit to the Market is a real method to meet and expertise the genuine Saint Lucian lifestyle, and it’s a good alternative to seek out spices, cocoa tea, home made craft objects, and random Knick knacks to take dwelling.
Seven genuine souvenirs to convey dwelling with you
1. Painted masks
There isn’t any quick provide of souvenirs to be present in Saint Lucia, and brightly coloured and arduous carved wood masks are excessive up on the listing of issues to not depart the island with out for a lot of guests. The masks make it doable to take a chunk of Saint Lucia dwelling with you, which you should utilize to exhibit inside your house, or give as a present.
2. Handmade pottery
Pottery isn’t a nasty reward, particularly if it’s hand-crafted. You possibly can choose up sensible pottery items or present items that can add a raise to your décor again dwelling. The pottery obtainable in Saint Lucia is exclusive, and ranges from trendy to conventional, so that you’ll have loads of choices to select from.
3. Cocoa sticks
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Cocoa tea within the Caribbean equates to scorching chocolate in lots of different locations, however the Caribbean model packs much more taste. Cocoa sticks are primarily log sized floor and fermented cocoa beans. They’re the important ingredient in making Saint Lucian Cocoa Tea, and since they’re usually so neatly packaged, you gained’t have a tough time taking a number of dwelling with you.
4. Sizzling sauce
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Sizzling sauce goes with nearly each meal on Caribbean phrases, and by the point you’re prepared to return dwelling, you’re more likely to have a newfound appreciation for pepper. Attempt manufacturers like Baron’s West Indian Sizzling Sauce if you happen to’re on the lookout for a tasty Caribbean scorching sauce to take dwelling. There are different native varieties obtainable, however Barons is the most well-liked, and also you’ll be capable to apply it to issues like barbecued meats, burgers, fries, and extra!
5. Native honey
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All honey will not be created equal, and that’s one thing that at all times comes as a shock to folks. Candy and nutritionally dense, the truth is that honey can style completely different relying on the place it’s made. This has to do with the place the bees supply the nectar and pollen, and the reality of the matter is, a well-made bottle of honey can certainly add some much-needed sweetness to life. Saint Lucian honey is pure and scrumptious, and also you’ll need to attempt some throughout your time on the island.
6. Rum
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Rum is one thing Saint Lucia is aware of a factor or two about, and that is a lot as a result of island’s in depth rum distilling historical past. Saint Lucia has produced a number of expertly crafted rums over time, together with the Saint Lucia Distillers produced and promoted Chairman’s Reserve Rum. You will get Chairman’s within the Authentic taste, or in a Spiced Rum or White Rum selection, or you will get the ‘Forgotten Casks’ limited-edition bottles to provide as presents.
7. Piton Beer
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Piton Beer is a type of belongings you merely should attempt throughout your vacation in Saint Lucia, particularly if you happen to intend to snap some pictures holding a Piton, on prime of the Piton! That is the last word trip photograph splendid in Saint Lucia, but it surely wouldn’t be doable with out the home-brewed Piton pilsner beer, which has earned worldwide accolades, together with a number of Monde Choice awards.
4 attention-grabbing details about Saint Lucia
1. St. Lucia grows LOTS of bananas
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Bananas have been as soon as thought of inexperienced gold in Saint Lucia (from 1964 onwards), and thru the ‘gold rush’ has simmered down considerably over time, Saint Lucia nonetheless has a wholesome banana trade and farmers which are dedicated to making sure their merchandise get an area in regional and worldwide markets with a view to maintain their livelihoods.
You possibly can see how massive the banana trade is in Saint Lucia by simply observing the in depth banana plantations on the roadside as you’re making your method to your resort; the bananas are normally wrapped in blue plastic luggage to guard them from the weather, hungry birds and pesky bugs. Be sure you have a banana or two whereas in Saint Lucia, as Saint Lucian bananas are identified to be sweeter, and total tastier.
2. Saint Lucia is the one nation named after a girl
Saint Lucia is filled with attract and pleasure, and it’s hardly stunning that it will be the one nation on the earth named after a girl (Saint Lucia of Syracuse)!
3. Two Nobel Prize winners have been born in Saint Lucia
It’s no stroll within the park to win a Nobel Prize, however the small island nation of Saint Lucia has earned two by the use of Sir Derek Walcott for Literature (1992), and Sir Arthur Lewis in Economics (1979). This achievement makes Saint Lucia the nation with the most Nobel Laureates per capita on the earth. Saint Lucia’s Nobel Laureates are celebrated yearly within the month of January (their birthday month), with a complete committee being set as much as manage actions of their honor.
4. Saint Lucia gained its first-ever Olympic medal in 2024!
Saint Lucian observe star, 23-year-old Julien Alfred, is without doubt one of the personalities Saint Lucia is most identified for, particularly after her historic win on the 2024 Paris Olympics. Alfred soared previous American Sha’Carri Richardson to win the 100m finals with a time of 10.72 seconds. Celebrations erupted in her hometown, the place a watch get together had been arrange at Derek Walcott Sq.. She additionally competed within the 200m race on the 2024 Paris Olympics and earned second place with a time of 21.98. Moreover, Alfred shone on the 2023 World Championships, profitable a silver medal within the 100m and a bronze medal within the 200m.
Merely lovely
Realizing intricate particulars a couple of vacation spot earlier than getting there can improve one’s expertise by stretching their perspective and permitting them to be extra receptive by the use of being knowledgeable. There are such a lot of issues Saint Lucia is thought for, that you just’ll undoubtedly be capable to add to this listing throughout your trip on this merely lovely island.
Additionally learn: 40 Amazing Things To Do In Saint Lucia
