Specially designed for cruise ship passengers and hotel clientele staying in the north of the island you will experience the true beauty of St. Lucia’s west coast on this amazing tour.
Tour begins after the pick up from your cruise port or hotel with a tour of the heart and soul of Castries, the capital of St. Lucia. An informative and lively narrative history will have you connecting with our local people and culture.
We will make a brief stop near the cathedral of the immaculate conception (biggest catholic church on the island built in 1899). Next to the cathedral is the Derek Walcott square, full of history and one of the venue for St. Lucia’s world famous jazz festival. Marvel at the renowned Samaan tree (said to be more than 400 years old) rooted as the centerpiece of the city.
We continue on a short drive to an overlook stop at Morne Fortune with breathtaking and spectacular views of the port area, Vigie lighthouse and northern St. Lucia. Drive past government house (19th century Victorian residence of the island’s governor general) built in 1865.
Just under 4 miles of Castries, a secret treasure lays, Marigot bay (location of the 1966 Rex Harrison movie “Dr Doolittle”, St. Lucia’s arc race and other yachting events, and trusted safe harbor from hurricanes/storms.
Your tour continues with a drivethrough and stop at the largest banana plantation in St.Lucia (Roseau valley). There you will be filled with information on the cultivation, harvest and export of bananas, St. Lucia’s main export crop. Free sampling of fresh, juicy ripe bananas from the plantation will be offered to everyone.
We continue driving through scenic and lush vegetation along the island’s west coast.
No sooner you will be mesmerized by two charming fishing villages (Anse la Raye & Canaries) both situated in coves of steep hills. Marvel at the unique micro cultures that is St. Lucia and the striking fishing canoes that are used for daily fishing up to this day. Anse La Raye, translates to Bay of Rays, derived from the Rays found in the Bay, hosting the popular and loved Seafood Friday Night, where the local fishermen showcase their skills, while the aroma of freshly prepared seafood fills the air, ready to be savored. Canaries translate to Kanawe, derived from the Amerindian word for cooking Pot there you can enjoy creole coconut cakes, and the mouth watering Cassava cakes.
We then descend into one of St. Lucia’s first settlements, old French town of Soufriere. It is said to be the island’s first capital/town, coaling station and economic port. Standing at the background are the majestic pitons rising above 2600 ft stubbornly at the waters edge.
The adventure continues to the sulphur springs which is the world’s only drive through volcano, where you will smell your approach and the distinctive plangent aroma reputed to relieve sinusitis and pressure (definitely a Kodak moment). At the sulphur springs you will be treated to a therapeutic mud bath in the 100 degree farenheit mineral pool. This water is said to be very healthy because of its therapeutic healing properties and exfoliation of the skin. Guaranteed to feel ten (10) years younger after this once in a lifetime mud bath.
After being rejuvenated by the abundance of Lucian magic, enjoy a sumptuous and authentic creole lunch, guaranteed to inspire much story telling for years to come!
Next we head down to the Toraille Waterfall, a breathtaking waterfall, which gushes fifty (50) feet over a cliff and cascades in a pool at the center of a charming tropical garden, enjoy a chilling swim in the crystal clear pool amidst lush surrounding beauty. The botanical gardens at Toraille waterfall is an excellent place to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of St. Lucia’s flora and fauna, and to understand how important of a role it plays in the life of this Island Paradise.
As we come to the end of the best part of your day in St. Lucia, after much laughter, smiles and singularly treasured experiences, the tour concludes as you return to your destination, rested, rejuvenated and officially a member of the greater St. Lucia family!