CASTRIES, ST.  LUCIA

We can explore the lush, tropical beauty of northern St Lucia on this tour, which begins with a drive around the centre of Castries. We will see the vibrant and colourful local market and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, with its magnificent architecture

We can explore the lush, tropical beauty of northern St Lucia on this tour, which begins with a drive around the centre of Castries. We will see the vibrant and colourful local market and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, with its magnificent architecture, before proceeding to Morne Fortune. Here we will marvel at the superb, sweeping view of Castries and the spectacular mountain range that extends across the island. On a clear day, the French Island of Martinique can be seen on the horizon. Batik, the process of dyeing fabric to give it an individual pattern, is said to have originated in Indonesia perhaps as long ago as 2,000 years. At Caribelle Batik they create beautiful, intricate designs. The unique fabrics produced are made into lovely, cool casual wear that we may like to purchase.Our tour then continues through the countryside, and we will enjoy wonderful views of banana plantations and the island’s lush vegetation, encompassing many different types of tropical flora. We will drive through Rodney Bay with its marina, before visiting Pigeon Island Park and the National Interpretation Centre, where tales of Pigeon Island’s past, spanning 1,000 years, unfold. Relics of St Lucia’s historical occupation are evident everywhere, and the park is a joy to wander around.After our visit to Pigeon Island, it’s a short drive to Reduit Beach for a refreshing swim and an opportunity to bask in the sun. Wash rooms are available and may be used for changing and complimentary beach chairs are at your disposal, however availability cannot be guaranteed. A refreshing drink will be served on the beach at the nearby Rex St Lucian Hotel. This tour involves strolling around the Caribelle Batik studio (where there are over 20 steps), approximately 20 minutes of walking at Pigeon Point (where there is some rough, uneven ground and 4 steps up to the centre), plus any walking you choose to do in the free time at Reduit Beach. Don’t forget your swimming costume, towel and sun protection for the beach stop! (It will save time if you wear your swimming costume.) Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the availability of beach chairs at Reduit Beach.

DESCRIPTIONS CORRECT FOR 2007 CARIBBEAN SEASON