Palms down, Saint Lucia is without doubt one of the finer trip locations within the Caribbean. With loads of solar, sea, sand, greenery, peace, quiet… and as a lot pleasure as you may match into your itinerary, you’ll discover that these shores are pure magic.
Of all of the amazing things to do in Saint Lucia, climbing the Pitons is without doubt one of the hottest. These unimaginable twin peaks are a UNESCO World Heritage Website and a trek to the highest of Gros Piton particularly, is a positive approach to get your adrenaline going. Ebook an tour by your resort or on-line, it’ll surely be the spotlight of your journey.
Simply so that you’re extra acquainted with the Pitons by the point you get to Saint Lucia, right here’s what it is advisable to know:
About the Pitons
Where in Saint Lucia are the Pitons located?
Gros Piton vs Petit Piton: What’s the difference?
Tour options: The best ways to explore the Pitons
Where to get the best views
Climbing and hiking at the Pitons
Where to stay when visiting the Pitons in Saint Lucia
FAQs
In regards to the Pitons
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Not solely are the Pitons in Saint Lucia a UNESCO World Heritage Website (designated in 2004), they’ve over time develop into a logo generally related to the island. What stands out most in regards to the Pitons is that collectively, they make for an imposing and punctiliously composed pure monument, however truly, they’re situated in two totally different communities on the small, volcanic, island of Saint Lucia. The Pitons are volcanic plugs (dormant), and each are situated on the southwestern coast of Saint Lucia.
Do you know? So well-known are the Pitons out and in of Saint Lucia, that the Windward and Leeward Brewery working in Saint Lucia named a beer after them. Piton beer is gentle, refreshing, and may simply be value buying simply to come out of your bag on the summit of Gros Piton!
The place in Saint Lucia are the Pitons situated?
The Pitons are situated within the south of Saint Lucia close to the cities of Soufriere and Choiseul on the southwestern coast.
Gros Piton vs Petit Piton: What’s the distinction?
Gros Piton is situated in Soufrière, and Petit Piton a bit of method off in Choiseul. Although these mountains are aspect by aspect alongside the island’s coast, they aren’t equivalent. Gros Piton measures 2,619ft, whereas Petit Piton rises to 2,461ft. Gros Piton is the broader and extra navigated Piton because it pertains to excursions. Petit Piton isn’t climbed, and particularly not throughout wet climate. Some individuals try to climb Petit Piton, however particular permissions and guides are required. Strenuous and steep with an unmarked path, the Petit Piton climb shouldn’t be normally provided by tour corporations. Gros Piton alternatively is incessantly climbed and consists of marked trails. You may simply signal as much as hike up Gros Piton by your resort or by way of a neighborhood tour firm.
Tour choices: The most effective methods to discover the Pitons
There are lots of methods to expertise the most effective of the Pitons whereas in Saint Lucia. You may hike up Gros Piton, or go to surrounding areas throughout a day tour the place you’ll be capable of catch a glimpse and really feel the enchantment of this pure landmark.
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Or, you may head out on a Catamaran Cruise, which can will let you method and scope the Pitons proper out on the ocean. Many boat excursions can be found in Saint Lucia whether or not through the early hours of the day, or round sundown. The most effective factor a few sea tour would be the superb photographs you’ll get to go residence with afterwards.
Final however not least, you may e book a helicopter tour to see the majestic twin peaks from above.
Skilled tip: Land, sea or air, all these excursions will give a distinct perspective of the superb Piton Mountains. Should you’re unsure which choice can be finest for you, do all of them. You received’t get tired of this superb sight!
The place to get the most effective views
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Heading south from Soufriere, you’ll be handled to a marvellous view of the Pitons rising triumphantly from the ocean. You may in the identical breathtaking method, absorb these views from southern seashores like Sugar Seaside. Climbing trails in proximity to the peaks, are additionally a wonderful method to soak up the views. And eventually, a extra leisurely approach to respect the fantastic thing about these peaks from up shut is happening a Catamaran Cruise.
Skilled tip: Saint Lucia is a good diving location, and it’s attainable to snorkel or go scuba diving on the foot of the Pitons whereas on the island. PADI® licensed company staying at any of the three Sandals all-inclusive resorts in Saint Lucia scuba dive without spending a dime (max. two tanks a day), this consists of skilled tools!
Climbing and mountain climbing on the Pitons
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Climbing the Pitons is surely among the best issues to do whereas in Saint Lucia. A overwhelming majority of tourists climb Gros Piton and never the more difficult Petit Piton.
The hike up Gros Piton can take 3 to six hours every method, and for that purpose, consolation is essential. Go for footwear you’ll be snug in all through the hike (no flip flops!). Deliver alongside sunblock and water as you’re prone to be out for a half or full day.
Skilled tip: Should you don’t essentially really feel like mountain climbing for greater than an hour, check out the Tet Paul Nature Path which is situated in proximity to the Pitons. This 45-minute hike provides you with loads of superb viewpoints over Saint Lucia’s well-known peaks.
It’s best to begin the hike up Gros Piton within the early morning hours when it’s cooler. You additionally don’t wish to get caught making your method again to the underside at evening fall, so plan accordingly. A tour information is very advisable for this tour. Deliver a digital camera with you as effectively, because the view from the highest is solely divine. Discover a full packing checklist additional down this text.
How lengthy is the Gros Piton Path?
The Gros Piton Path is about 3.2 miles (5.1 kilometer) lengthy. The path is rated as difficult, and affords many sights and sounds alongside the best way, together with colourful wildflowers, and different animal and plants. The path is accessible year-round.
Sights alongside the Gros Piton Path
As it is a jungle expedition, you may count on to see a number of tree, plant and wildlife species in your approach to the highest of Gros Piton. There are factors alongside the best way the place you’ll have superb ocean views, and relaxation stops the place you may cease to only chill and take within the ambiance. There’s even factors the place you may see the close by island of Saint Vincent. The views alone are sufficient to propel you to maintain strolling irrespective of how drained you may really feel as you close to the highest. Although this hike might be troublesome, it’s not at all not possible. The victory on the summit is definitely candy!
The Interpretive Heart
The Interpretive Heart in Fond Gens Libre is without doubt one of the first factors you’ll get to as you put together to your trek up Gros Piton. It is kind of the purpose the place you’ll pay your charges to the information, if these haven’t already been paid. Inside, there’s a mannequin of Gros Piton which your information may check with with a view to get you acquainted with the hike. Ask any questions you want to at this level.
Waypoint Coordinates: 13.8065755, -61.0611749 (13°48’23.7″N 61°03’40.2″W)
Park & Mango Timber
Close to the Interpretive Heart, you’ll discover the start of the path. There’s a rocky path your information will present you thru, and as soon as cleared you’ll get to a lovely space stuffed with mango timber. In case your tour is throughout mango season (Might and June), you may even be capable of choose a pair scrumptious ones for later!
Waypoint Coordinates: 13.80595, -61.06208 (13°48’21.4″N 61°03’43.5″W
Jungle Strolling
When you get up to now, you’ll be effectively in your approach to the highest of Gros Piton. It’ll take some time to get to the highest, however at this portion of the hike you’ll principally be strolling alongside a mud path by the jungle, with thick overgrowth blocking the potential of any actual views. There’s rocks and roots in some areas you’ll need to make your method over, however this space might be navigated pretty simply with directions out of your information.
Waypoint Coordinates: 13.8042833, -61.065681 (13°48’15.4″N 61°03’56.5”W)
First Ocean View
There’s a degree after this the place you’ll come across the curve of the mountain and also you’ll see a break within the timber which shall be fairly the welcome sight. The push of cooling breeze by the open house, and the view of the ocean under will construct your pleasure much more for what awaits on the prime. Just a bit method after that, you’ll be capable of catch a glimpse of the summit of Gros Piton.
Waypoint Coordinates: 13.8054086, -61.0686207 (13°48’19.5″N 61°04’07.0″W)
Midway
The midway mark! The information will let you realize whenever you get up to now, and this announcement will certainly set off a sense of reduction. Your reward? Wonderful views of the close by Petit Piton. Some say that is the purpose the place issues get a bit of more difficult, and a few hikers even flip again. Whether or not you select to show again or not at this level, getting that far remains to be a commendable achievement!
Waypoint Coordinates: 13.8092, -61.06911 (13°48’33.1″N 61°04’08.8″W)
Stairs
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This can really feel like the purpose the place a private coach turns up the warmth of a exercise. You’ll see giant stair steps right here, simply ready so that you can enterprise up. A few of these steps are lower out of grime with logs and roots to maintain the grime steady, and others are made up of rocks and boulders. The steps of the steps are fairly excessive in some locations (some measuring as a lot as 24 inches) however there are handrails made out of sticks you should utilize in some areas, which can show you how to pull your self to the following stage. Take your time, and use your strolling stick or your fingers for help if you happen to should. Sluggish and regular will get you there!
Waypoint Coordinates: 13.8102, -61.06761 (13°48’36.7″N 61°04’03.4”W)
Summit of Gros Piton
Lastly, you’ve made it to the highest! Your reward? The unimaginable panoramic views and the unrivaled leisure you’ll get to take pleasure in for a couple of moments earlier than heading again to the underside. Although the summit is roofed with thick vegetation which makes it laborious to see the views past, you may climb down a bit to an space with a small lookout platform. When you make it to the highest, you’ll be capable of signal the summit register within the Interpretive Heart when you get again down, which can perpetually function a document of your momentous climb!
Waypoint Coordinates: 13.80978, -61.06544 (13°48’35.2″N 61°03’55.6″W)
What to deliver when mountain climbing up Gros Piton
Packing checklist of things to deliver in your hike up the Gros Piton:
● Digicam
● Sunscreen
● Towel
● Insect Repellent
● Swimwear (for earlier than or after the climb)
● Money
It’s finest to go away any jewellery at residence, as you may lose it through the hike.
Climbing the Pitons shouldn’t be advisable if you happen to:
● Are pregnant
● Are bodily challenged (not wheelchair accessible)
● Lately had arm/hand surgical procedure
● Have again/neck issues
● Have movement illness
● Have coronary heart/respiratory points
How will I get there?
There are lots of excursions to discover the Pitons in Saint Lucia, and you may e book one simply although your resort, which might usually embody transfers (however verify to make sure!). The opposite choice is to arrange a taxi journey or lease a automotive.
The place to remain when visiting the Pitons in Saint Lucia
Image: Sandals Grande St. Lucian. Visitors of this all-inclusive resort in Saint Lucia additionally get entry to 2 different all-inclusive resorts: Sandals Regency La Toc and Sandals Halcyon Beach. Transfers included!
Though the Pitons are situated within the South of Saint Lucia, you’ll discover that the north of the island is finest for vacationers who wish to be a part of the motion; individuals who prefer to reconnect with nature through the day, however wish to eat out, have a drink, and be a part of the enjoyable at evening. The North of Saint Lucia is the place you’ll discover the most effective seashores, eating places, resorts and all-inclusive resorts.
Additionally learn: North vs South: Where To Stay In Saint Lucia?
It takes a 60-minute, or 90-minute scenic drive to get from north to south in Saint Lucia, relying on whether or not you’re travelling on the east or west coast.
Picture credit score: fokke baarssen/Shutterstock.com
Sandals options three all-inclusive resorts on this space. Sandals Grande St. Lucian in Rodney Bay, situated proper subsequent to Pigeon Island, is essentially the most full of life of the three with superb views from the seaside. Sandals Regency La Toc is thought for its superb cliffside views, and villa suites with non-public swimming swimming pools. Final however not least, Sandals Halcyon Beach is the extra intimate and quiet resort of the three, with the attractive Paradise Pool.
Image: The over-the-water restaurant at Sandals Grande St. Lucian, one of many 12 gourmet restaurants situated at this resort. The most effective half: meals and drinks are all the time included, all the time limitless!
The most effective half: when staying at one in all these resorts, you’ll get free entry to all three Sandals Resorts on the island (together with free transfers in between the resorts). This implies any Sandals visitor in Saint Lucia has access to 27 restaurants, 21 bars, and golf at no further value. It’s all included in your keep.
Pitons excursions on supply at Sandals Resorts
Sandals Resorts partnered up with Island Routes, to supply its company the most effective native experiences on the island. Beneath, you’ll discover an outline of the excursions to the Pitons provided from the resort:
Helicopter airport transfers
Common airport transfers from and to the resort are all the time free for Sandals company. Nevertheless, if you happen to’re planning to see the Pitons from above, be certain that to e book a helicopter switch from the airport to the resort. Helicopter transfers can be found from 205 USD per individual, and relaxation assured, there’s no higher approach to begin your all-inclusive vacation in Saint Lucia! The helicopter journey itself will take round 10 minutes.
Excursions departing from all three resorts
The Piton Sunset Snorkel Cruise is a cool approach to see the Pitons in all their glory with out breaking a sweat. The snorkel cruise takes round 5 hours and begins from 86 USD an individual. On the lookout for a celebration? Look no additional than the Saint Lucia Sunset Evening Party Cruise ranging from 77 USD an individual takes you alongside the magnificent west coast inside 2 hours.
Need to hike up the Gros Piton? The Gros Piton Hike from Castries/Vieux Fort ranging from 150 USD an individual is your cup of tea! The tour itself will take round 7 hours.
FAQs
Are you able to hike the Pitons in St Lucia, and are particular preparations wanted for this hike?
Sure. Whereas in Saint Lucia, it is possible for you to to climb Gros Piton, the taller of the 2 Pitons. You are able to do this whether or not or not you’ve climbing expertise. There additionally aren’t any particular preparations you’ll must do, although it’s value it to stretch forward of this difficult hike.
What if I wish to climb Petit Piton?
Whereas it’s attainable to climb Petit Piton, this isn’t a hike usually provided as a tour choice. It isn’t advisable to climb Petit Piton with out a information, particularly if you happen to’re not a talented hiker. Should you’re trying to strive a climb like this which at finest shall be troublesome and technical, with excessive elevation bouldering, you could want particular permissions.
Is the volcano in Saint Lucia lively?
Saint Lucia is a volcanic island, however volcanic exercise right here has been unreported for a few years. Whereas the final main eruption on the island was reported 1000’s of years in the past, the final minor eruption was someday within the 1700s.
Exploring the Pitons is a should in Saint Lucia
There are lots of unimaginable issues you are able to do in Saint Lucia, however none that stand out as a lot as having fun with the view of the Pitons and the view from the Pitons. There’s a sure awe-inspired feeling that comes with staring up at a mountain greater than 2,000 ft excessive, particularly when it is proper in entrance of you, and that feeling and the nice instances you’re positive to have on this island, will make your journey to Saint Lucia that rather more memorable!
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Insider tip: Want extra causes to journey to this island nation? Take a look at these amazing pictures of Saint Lucia.
