I may write a special story about Pigeon Island, Saint Lucia, each time I go to. The views are by no means fairly the identical, all the time sweeping, all the time charming. For sure, this is likely one of the island’s most putting factors of curiosity.
Really historic, Pigeon Island has remodeled in exceptional methods through the years. Exhausting to think about now, however it as soon as stood as its personal island earlier than being linked to the northern coast of Saint Lucia in 1971 by a man-made causeway.
On this publish, you’ll see why the occasions main as much as that transformation, and Pigeon Island’s story itself, are thought-about so impactful that they’re a part of the college curriculum for many historical past college students in Saint Lucia. And, you’ll additionally uncover why this attraction is a must-visit throughout a Saint Lucia getaway.
Image: Calm down and take within the views of Pigeon Island Seashore whereas having fun with the all-inclusive comforts at Sandals Grande Saint Lucian seaside resort.
The Battle for Saint Lucia’s Coronary heart
Whether or not you set foot on Saint Lucia or not, you would possibly hear tales of the island’s storied previous. Seven occasions British, seven occasions French. These occasions are so ingrained in native tradition that each English and Creole talking Saint Lucians hold the reminiscence alive. Even a fast look again at historical past exhibits simply how important this island was to each nations throughout their respective guidelines.
Because the Saint Lucia Nationwide Belief describes it, Pigeon Island is a vivid reflection of the island’s cultural crossroads, formed by worldwide influences, army chapters, and Caribbean spirit. What was as soon as the backdrop of fierce battles is now a landmark full of tales, the place historical past feels alive and the island’s resilience shines by.
Pigeon Island and the Historical past of Saint Lucia
Going deeper into the historical past, Pigeon Island was first residence to the Amerindians—the Caribs and the Arawaks. That is the case for a lot of different elements of Saint Lucia and far of the Caribbean. The Caribs, who had a historical past of being fiercer than the Arawaks, had a much bigger presence. Someday later pirates additionally materialized on the island, notably a captain often known as ‘Jambe de Bois’, whose actual title was Francois Le Clerc. His title actually interprets to peg leg, and all as a result of he walked round on a wood leg. He carried out many assaults and raids within the Caribbean, and past. Jambe de Bois and his crew of 330 males had been the primary Europeans to determine their presence and settle into the island of Saint Lucia. Pigeon Island for them was residence, they usually used it to focus on Spanish ships.
Jambe du Bois wasn’t the one one to reap the benefits of the clear views from Pigeon Island, which made it an amazing watch location. A number of Forts had been constructed within the space. These had been operated by each the French and the British. The British, throughout preliminary take overs of the island used a closely fortified Pigeon Island to spy on the French in Martinique. Admiral Rodney was well-known for doing this and would usually monitor Fort Royal and the French naval base in Martinique from this location. Nonetheless right this moment proof that this occurred will be seen, notably on days when it’s clear sufficient to simply spot the island of Martinique from Pigeon Island.
On this article on the Sandals Weblog:
Fort Rodney
Other historical points
Pigeon Island & soul collide
Things to do at Pigeon Island
FAQ’s
Fort Rodney
Photograph credit score: Janos Rautonen/Shutterstock.com
Within the 18th century, George Rodney, a British Admiral modified the face of Pigeon Island by constructing forts, which served to guard him and his military from enemy assaults. Considered one of these was Fort Rodney, constructed in 1778. Fort Rodney was constructed on the smaller of two peaks positioned throughout the Pigeon Island Nationwide Landmark. This and different forts within the space (together with Sign Hill) afforded the British firsthand data on whomever was approaching the island. Fort Rodney, was a top-rated fortification throughout occasions of battle, and right this moment many aged cannons and different ruins stay, including coloration to historic accounts. At one level, the Admiral ordered all timber on Pigeon Island to be reduce down, for a greater vantage, however right this moment you gained’t have the ability to inform in any respect. The world is lush, inexperienced, and easily magical.
Different Historic Factors
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A whaling station was established on Pigeon island in 1909, after which shut down in 1952 when laws was put in place which restricted whaling actions.
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After a war-filled historical past, the Saint Lucia Nationwide Belief took Pigeon Island into its palms, and began restoring the world, growing it in ways in which wouldn’t compromise its wealthy historical past, and considerable greenery.
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Pigeon Island was additionally leased to an actress from the D’Oyle Carte Theatre in England in 1937, who left Saint Lucia in Nineteen Forties when america constructed a naval base in Rodney Bay. She returned in 1947, with a ardour for yachting that she needed to share with the locals. Again in her heyday, she helped set up the island as a paradise, entertaining many company. She gave up the lease in 1970. When you look you may see that some remnants of her home stay within the park.
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A museum and interpretation Heart had been included into the island’s points of interest, with a theme that principally targeted on the Battle of the Saints, and battles in and round Pigeon Island through the years. The constructing that homes the Interpretation Heart had beforehand been a Mess Corridor for troopers. Although it’s now closed, many individuals benefited from the dear historical past shared by the endeavor.
Pigeon Island: Magnificence in Bloom, Tradition in Movement
With the Caribbean Sea on one facet, and the Atlantic Ocean on the opposite, Pigeon Island has served many makes use of through the years. This contains being a venue for the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Competition held within the month of Might. This native and worldwide musical showcase has featured many mega stars on its lineup together with Rihanna, UB40, Neyo, John Legend, The Jacksons, Mary J. Blige, Elton John, and extra. Because the competition lights up the stage, actually and actually, it is the ambiance of Pigeon Island that steals the present. The cliffside views, the sway of the timber, the huge blue horizon—these make each second really feel rooted in Saint Lucia’s pure magnificence.
Issues to do at Pigeon Island
1. Discover the Ruins
‘Ruins’ isn’t a nasty phrase the place Pigeon Island is anxious. Everybody from hikers to newlyweds take pleasure in this slice of paradise, out and in of the park. When you’re into mountain climbing, you may hike one or each peaks positioned throughout the park. Fort Rodney is 225 ft excessive, whereas Sign Peak reaches 330 ft. It’s slightly difficult to get to the highest, however it doesn’t measure as much as among the tougher climbs in Saint Lucia, like the Gros Piton or Petit Piton climb. To get to Sign Peak’s highest level, you’ll need to climb a tall ladder, which is comparatively straightforward to do. The ocean breeze and the superb view from the highest are merely heavenly!
2. Bathe at secret seashores
Whereas there are lots of bays within the basic Pigeon Level space, within the park you’ll discover two comparatively secluded ones. When you go midweek, on a day when there aren’t any cruise ships in port, you’ll discover the seashores virtually abandoned. On different days, you gained’t have the ability to discover a spot. The water is obvious, and the sand is white and effectively stored. There are even lavatory amenities. Seashores throughout the park are standard for picnics, snorkeling, and snuba excursions.
3. Tie the Knot (for those who haven’t already!)
Pigeon Island, notably Pigeon Island Nationwide Park, is a standard marriage ceremony web site. Locals and guests alike are drawn right here to change vows in a setting that’s peaceable, lovely, and historic. What extra may you ask for to set the tone for a happily-ever-after? And for those who’re staying close by, you may also select to say “I do” within the scenic Overwater Chapel at Sandals Grande Saint Lucian, the place the ocean itself turns into a part of your love story.
Knowledgeable tip: After the ceremony (whether or not at Sandals Grande Saint Lucian or contained in the park itself, make a while for pictures within the Ruins!
4. Stroll the character path
Nature lovers will take pleasure in what the Park has to supply on the within – 44 lovely acres of protected greenery, filled with historical past, ready to be explored. Pigeon Island makes for an amazing half or full day outing.
5. Dine with household and associates
For an amazing location with delectable meals, take a look at the Barnacles restaurant positioned throughout the Pigeon Island Nationwide Park. It’s non-public, has an unique really feel, and the meals and repair make a cease right here effectively worthwhile!
6. Schedule a photoshoot
From beachside views, to historical ruins and grassy slope lands, you’ll discover simply the best backdrop on your trip pictures on the park. There are bogs for outfit modifications, and showers for freshening up.
7. Try close by areas
The Sandals Golf and Nation Membership is a brief distance away from Pigeon Island, and it’s the good place to hone your sport. Seize your gear (or hire) and prepare for some motion at some of the standard golf programs within the Caribbean. This web site is as much as worldwide requirements, and also you’ll spend an amazing time out on the inexperienced.
Regularly Requested Questions
When can I am going to Pigeon Level Seashore?
The seashores at Pigeon Level (Pigeon Island) in Saint Lucia are accessible year-round. The principle seaside is especially hopping on weekends, with seaside events and native bars in full swing. You’ll discover a quieter expertise on the two seashores contained in the park.
What’s the view like?
Views from Sign Level on the Pigeon Island Nationwide Park are superb – on clear days you may see the Pitons within the south of the island, and the island of Martinique, which is positioned a brief distance away from Saint Lucia. There are additionally views of Rodney Bay and Gros Islet from some areas of the park.
Photograph credit score: Przemyslaw Skibinsk/Shutterstock.com
What sort of customer is that this focal point good for?
The adventurous and individuals who simply love the seaside. Visiting the nationwide park positioned on this space is usually a nice choice for those who love exploring the outside, taking pictures, and mountain climbing.
How a lot does it price to enter the Pigeon Island Nationwide Park?
The entrance payment for adults (13 years and older) is US$10. Kids (5-12 years outdated) pay US$3. Toddlers (below 5 years outdated) can enter at no cost. Excursions usually price extra.
How a lot is a tour?
Excursions of Pigeon Island begin at round USD$58 – and this worth often contains the doorway payment, transport, lunch, and a stroll round with a information who will share the historical past and background of the location.
How do I get there?
You will get to Pigeon Island through boat (there’s a dock contained in the park), or by automobile. When you’re driving, you’ll discover the island about 5 minutes away previous the highway main into the city of Gros Islet. Proceed alongside the Gros Islet Freeway within the route of Cap Property and take a left flip close to the signal marking the doorway of Pigeon Island. Comply with the highway and take a proper flip. On the finish of that highway, simply previous the Sandals Grande Saint Lucia Beach Resort & Spa, you’ll discover the Pigeon Island Nationwide Landmark.
How far are Pigeon Island and Fort Rodney from the totally different Saint Lucia Sandals Resorts?
When you’re staying at any of the Sandals all-inclusive resorts in Saint Lucia, the Pigeon Island Nationwide landmark shouldn’t be too distant. It’s a breezy five-minute stroll away from the Sandals Grande Saint Lucia Beach Resort & Spa. It is just 0.5miles/2.6km from the resort, a 2-minute drive. The Park is about 36 minutes from Sandals Regency La Toc, and about 20 minutes from Sandals Halcyon.
How lengthy does it take to hike as much as the fort and again down?
The hike up the Fort is comparatively straightforward and takes about one hour and quarter-hour each methods (some steep areas exist alongside the paths). This doesn’t embody time spent taking pictures or having fun with the views. You’ll be able to keep so long as you’d like!
Knowledgeable tip: Carry loads of water for those who plan on mountain climbing at Pigeon Island. You’ll want it! Additionally, take your time when navigating up hills to keep away from slipping and falling.
Pigeon Island is Crammed with Allure and Magnificence
Image: Discover the perfect of Pigeon Island Saint Lucia from Sandals Grande Saint Lucian positioned simply steps away.
And also you’ll really feel it the second you flip off the Gros Islet freeway, simply earlier than reaching Cap Property. The ambiance shifts, the vibe modifications, and also you immediately know you’re in simply the best place. With each flip towards Pigeon Island, previous the Martinique-facing rocks, alongside the seashores, and into the nationwide park… the sensation grows stronger. Earlier than you realize it, you’re surrounded by an setting that looks like pure island bliss. Go see it for your self and uncover this Saint Lucian treasure, wealthy with historical past and full of moments to decelerate, study slightly, and take pleasure in a refreshing break from the on a regular basis.
Insider Tip: Make Sandals Grande Saint Lucian your private home base and let on daily basis be effortlessly unforgettable. All you want on your trip, from lodging and eating, to leisure, land and water sports activities and extra, is included with your stay!
