Those who want to escape the winter chills should book a trip to the charming Caribbean, where the waters are always fine. One nation that they should not miss is Saint Lucia, a “no ordinary island.” Why so? Tourists should imagine this: as they embark on the plane, they will be welcomed by a tropical breeze, but warmer are the smiles of the locals.
As they explore the mountains, forests, coast, and islands of this nation, the travelers will be hugged by a calming presence, which is their renewed aura. That’s normal because, in Saint Lucia, its beauty and peace work together for zen.
10 Castries
The capital Castries is popular among cruise line passengers because it’s one of the ports of call in the Caribbean. Its tropical climate is perfect for a stroll around town, a stay on the shores, or a sightseeing journey. Aside from the beaches, tourists should not miss checking out the library, the Government House, the splendid cathedral, the quaint Derek Walcott Square, and Fort Charlotte, a perfect viewing spot. They must also visit Castries Central Market for traditional drinks, tasty treats, and Saint Lucian souvenirs.
9 Sulphur Springs
Sulphur Springs is Saint Lucia’s most famous destination because it is the world’s only “drive-in volcano.” This attraction lets visitors walk and drive into a dormant volcano. What makes a visit to this attraction unique is the presence of mud baths, where tourists are welcome to have a dip. The baths are believed to have detoxifying prowess, helping visitors with eczema, sunburn, arthritis, body aches, and sore joints, among others. After the mud bath, there’s a 50-foot waterfall where guests can wash away the mud and reminisce a little.
8 Sault Falls
For the real deal, tourists should visit Sault Falls, Saint Lucia’s most scenic waterfall. This 15- to 20-meter cascade is accessible from the fishing town of Dennery, making it an ideal location to cap off a day of exploration. Tourists should imagine this: after alighting from the car, they will take a downward trail, and as they trek, they will slowly hear the roar of the drop of the water. When the sound is at its loudest, they will be gobsmacked when they see the superb cascades. Now it’s time to rest.
7 Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths
Saint Lucia is big on spa tourism, and aside from the mud baths of Sulphur Springs, Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens is another destination for those who want a relaxing retreat. The attraction is home to mineral baths that have been around since 1784, offering therapeutic wonders to guests. Before taking a dip, tourists should explore the garden that will take them on a tropical journey filled with foliage. It’s easy to fall in love with this Saint Lucia destination knowing that it’s blooming, blessed, and bathed with colors.
6 Pitons
The Pitons are two volcanic spires and are Saint Lucia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Hikers are allowed to explore this volcanic complex, and most flock to Gros Piton because conquering its peak is easier. This destination has a geothermal field with fumaroles and hot springs, while its marine area is teeming with coral reefs; hence it has a diverse underwater world. It’s a nature lover’s paradise because it’s home to many plant and animal species. Beyond the waves or deep into the forest, the Pitons won’t disappoint.
5 Pigeon Island
Pigeon Island is an adept sightseeing spot because of its varied attractions, from stone buildings to Mother Nature’s gifts. History buffs would love exploring its ruined batteries, barracks, and garrisons, while picnickers will enjoy its lawns, where they can place their mats to enjoy scenic coastal views. Sightseers can also explore the officers’ quarters and kitchen and Signal Peak. The fortress, meanwhile, is an Instagrammable site, and wherever tourists take a pose, they’ll be afforded stunning shots. This landmark aims to please.
4 Beaches
What makes Caribbean nations popular are pristine beaches, and Saint Lucia has an abundance of them. The capital has the golden La Toc, the honey-colored Choc, the local-favorite Vigie, and Labrellotte Bay for those who want a quiet beach day. The northern shores are not to be missed, too, because it has the hidden cove of Smugglers and the kitesurfing spot of Cas-en-Bas. What takes the cake, however, is Sugar, the island’s top beach between the two Pitons, where a sweet escape is guaranteed.
3 Mamiku Gardens
The eastern part of the country is home to Mamiku Gardens, a tiny destination where Mother Nature’s treasures are grand. When visiting this lush attraction, amateur or expert botanists should prepare their record books as they could log 297 species – and maybe discover some more. Birdwatchers are in for a treat, too, as they might spot hummingbirds and thrashers, while history buffs can explore ruins. To experience all that, visitors might as well conquer its welcoming hiking trails. Mamiku Gardens is simply mesmerizing.
2 Diving Spots
Those who can’t get themselves satisfied by just staying on the shore might as well head to Saint Lucia’s underwater domain. There are five Professional Association of Diving Instructors-recommended diving sites where tourists can have a splash. Anse Chastanet is ideal for shore diving, while Fairyland is the place for those who love drift diving. Keyhole Pinnacles is enticing because of its seamounts, while the wreck of Lesleen M is great for photos. Not to be missed, as well, is Superman’s Flight, where the currents will take diving heroes along corals.
1 St. Lucia Rum Distillery
A trip to a rum distillery might be the best way to end a tour in Saint Lucia. Why so? It’s the best drink to have while reminiscing the past days’ experiences and reliving the moments only this Caribbean nation can offer. There’s only one distillery in the country, so travelers might as well visit it for a one-hour tour of its processes. The tour includes tasting, and after savoring the flavor of this Saint Lucian spirit, tourists will be craving more – more drinks, more travel memories.
