CASTRIES, ST LUCIA

Explore the lush, tropical beauty of northern St Lucia on this tour, as we begin 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 as 2,000 years ago. 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 shall drive past 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 is a short drive to Reduit Beach for a refreshing swim and an opportunity to bask in the sun. Washrooms are available and may be used for changing, however availability cannot be guaranteed. A refreshing drink will be served at a popular beach bar and restaurant.

TOUR NOTES: This tour involves walking 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 four steps up to the interpretation centre), plus any walking you choose to do in the free time at the 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 (all beach chairs available to our passengers will be within a designated area). Umbrellas are available to hire at a minor charge. Please note that all beaches in St Lucia are public and can therefore be crowded at times. Toilet and changing facilities may be basic.

TEXT IS CORRECT AT THE TIME OF PUBLISHING