ST. LUCIA…OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

Assignment written for The London School of Journalism

Photo credit to Devonne Coll


Sitting in St Lucia’s airport on New Year’s Eve as the airline cancelled my flight home, I thought back over my past three days on the island and smiled. Secretly happy for the unexpected extension, I had discovered that this much-loved Caribbean country has so much more to offer than the pristine beaches and turquoise waters the mind typically conjures. Lush, mountainous ranges engulf the island, alongside rainforests, volcanic springs and rainbow coral reefs. Conserving these wonders are key to St Lucia, and there are numerous ways to experience them, creating the ideal trip for adventure-seekers and nature-lovers.

 

Being my first trip there, I was eager to explore. I quickly realised that the north and south are distinctly different, both in landscape and culture. The north, features the capital Castries, with the cruise ship port and commercialised areas centred around duty-free shopping. The south however, boasts a more authentic, rugged counterpart.

 

Unfortunately, my accommodation was in the north. However, having hired a car I was able to drive south. For three hours, I climbed clumsily through tiny roads, winding dangerously through the mountains. Doing my best to simultaneously take in the Jurassic Park-esque scenery whilst navigating steep cliff edges.

 

The perilous journey was worth it.  Entering the town Soufriere, I was greeted by the Pitons, two towering volcanic spires rising from the ocean. As UNESCO World Heritage sites, you cannot visit St Lucia without experiencing these giants. Gros Piton is the most commonly hiked, taking 3-6 hours each way. Short on time, I took the nearby Tet Paul Nature Trail instead; an hour-long moderate hike, ambling through indigenous nature, with unbeaten views of the Pitons.

 

Soufriere is also home to some exceptional boutique hotels, including the Rabot Hotel. Within the rainforest, this series of eco lodges is owned by renowned chocolatier, Hotel Chocolat. Featuring an open-air restaurant with postcard-perfect views of the Pitons, I recharged with a decadent and locally sourced, chocolate infused menu. Whilst here, I couldn’t miss out on Project Chocolat. This tour of the estate takes you from rainforest to restaurant, explaining how cacao beans are transformed into chocolate. From planting my own tree, to roaming cacao groves, to creating a chocolate bar, it gave an enjoyable insight into sustainable agriculture in St Lucia.

 

Arguably, one of the most popular reasons for visiting Soufriere, are the sulphur springs. The area is a geothermal field and amusingly, claims to be the world’s only drive in volcano. And they really mean this! I drove directly to the springs, where you can take a refreshing dip in hot springs, detoxifying mud baths and finish with a natural waterfall bath.

 

After all that outdoor activity, some downtime was needed. Close to Castries are many picturesque yet overcrowded beaches. However, a short drive away I found the idyllic Pigeon Island beach, which was perfect for relaxing and snorkelling. With many food vendors nearby, I sampled local delicacies including salt fish and green figs, breadfruit, and creole fish. Though delicious, the chefs work to their own timeframe, and waiting over an hour is normal. The highlight of the day came from a boat cruising past, selling fresh fruit and rum punches. The perfect accompaniment for sundowners!

 

In only a few days, it was easy to fall in love with St Lucia. The island is unchallenged for natural beauty, with a range of activities for every traveller. But going off the beaten track is key. It’s the hidden, unspoilt features of the island that really make it a unique destination. Once visiting, I’m sure you will be hoping your flight home is cancelled too.

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