St Lucia
St. Lucia is a small tropical island 1300 miles southeast of Florida in the
Windward Islands midway down the Eastern Caribbean chain, between
Martinique and St. Vincent, and north of Barbados. St. Lucia possesses a
topography and ecology of stunning beauty, matched by no other location in the
Caribbean.
In the mountainous interior lies the enormous National Rain Forest, and the
island's protected coastal sights. On this island, you will find coastal fishing
villages, banana and coconut plantations and deep valleys surrounded by rich,
mountainous jungle. The most beautiful scenery is found in the south where the
twin volcanic peaks of the Pitons rise sharply from the shoreline with its many
secluded coves and beaches. The rugged terrain continues beneath the sea and
the underwater mountains, caves and drop-offs offering a great opportunity for
divers who like to explore. One main road circles the entire island and narrow
roads, curves and hairpin turns cause driving to be hazardous. The best way to
see the island is to take one of the Land and Sea Tours, offered by several
companies.
St. Lucia Weather
The climate in St. Lucia is tropical with average temperatures ranging from mid
60’s to mid 80’s - rainy season being June to October.
St. Lucia Activities
Coral Reefs - Along the coast of Soufriere and Anse Chastanet Beach to the
south of the island. Diving and Snorkeling - Many protected diving sites on the
Caribbean side.
Whale and dolphin watching - A growing attraction in St. Lucia.
Tours of the rain forest - The rainforest covers about 40 percent of the island.
Marigot Bay - a picturesque bay that has been used for background shots in
many Hollywood films such as Dr. Doolittle and Fire Power. Here you will find
green hillsides and a palm-fringed beach.
Other attractions include: deep-sea fishing, helicopter rides over the island, and
day trips to the nearby islands of the Grenadines, Dominica, Martinique, St.
Vincent, and Barbados. The island day trips are definitely worth considering
since St. Lucia can be seen in one or two days. There are all kinds of nature
hikes, tours, and programs that allow the whole family to enjoy the island. St
Lucia offers lots of outdoor fun and excitement for the kids. Several hotels on the
island welcome families and offer special facilities including kids clubs, special
kids meals, and comforting sleeping arrangements – beds and cots in room or
adjoining rooms.
Natural Attractions of St. Lucia
Pitons - You will visit the bayside town of Soufrière where St. Lucia’s most
famous landmark, the coastal Pitons (topping 2,000 feet) provides a scenic
backdrop to the south and the island's highest peaks rise above the rainforest.
Petit Piton and Gros Piton are majestic twin volcanic spires soaring out of the
sea. Only the most daring climbers have ventured to the top.
Maria Islands
Nature reserve off the coast of Vieux Fort - Famous for two endemic species of
animals unknown anywhere else in the world: the harmless Couresse grass
snake and the Maria Islands ground lizard – also a nesting site for several
species of sea birds and turtles.
Fregate Islands – Nature reserve on the Atlanta side of St. Lucia - the small
islands are a haven for frigate birds during mating season and a habitat for the
boa constrictor.
Fregate Island Nature Trail - This tour along St. Lucia's Atlantic Coast offers
several scenic views on a mile-long trail circling the national park. Tours
arranged through the St. Lucia National Trust.
National Rain Forest – 19,000 acres of lush mountains and valleys - Habitat for
rare birds, plants and orchids that scent the air. Great for bird watchers, hikers
and nature lovers. Home to exotic flowers and fruits, giant ferns, birds of
paradise, bromeliads, wild orchids - Rare colorful birds such as the St. Lucia
Parrot," the White Breasted Thrasher, the St. Lucia Peewee, and the St. Lucia
Oriole. The rainforest is broken only by dense fields and orchards of banana,
coconut, mango, and papaya trees. For tours, contact the Forest and Lands
Department.
The Sulphur Springs – Dormant volcano world’s only drive-in volcano - Steamy
sulphur springs.
Mt. Gimie - Highest point on St. Lucia - 3,117 feet. - Guided tours.
Diamond Falls - Natural, mineral-rich falls. An invigorating shower under the
cascading waters provides a refreshing break.
Latille Gardens - Beautiful gardens filled with luscious fruits, blooming flowers,
thriving plants, shading trees, and vibrant waterfalls.
There are also several Nature Hikes, Tours, and Programs which include Barre
de L'isle Rain Forest Trail, Morne la Combe, Barre de Lisle, Union Nature Trail,
Morne Le lanc/Laborie, Southern Safari, Hardy Point Cactus Valley Walking Trek,
Mankote Mangrove and Turtle Watching.
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