St Lucia

Destination Information

Arguably the most photogenic of all our Caribbean destinations, St Lucia is a volcanic island of striking contrasts and stunning tropical scenery. Verdant rainforests contrast with golden beaches and the deep blue sea, to make the perfect setting for relaxing holidays. The diversity of St Lucia is not only depicted in its stunning landscapes and beaches, but also in its language. The island’s history reflects the struggle between England and France – over the years the island has changed hands fourteen times and even today the French influence remains significant with patois being the local language, although English is universally spoken. There is also a profound difference between the north and south of the island which is reflected not only in its scenery, but also the lifestyle. The north is more cosmopolitan and lively, the beaches tend to be golden interspersed with dark, volcanic coves, and you will find most of the villas that we feature in the very north on the Cap Estate, near the golf course.

The capital, Castries, is also in the north, famous for its market and historical sites, and Rodney Bay offers marinas, a variety of watersports and an extensive range of restaurants, bars and a diversity of nightlife, if this is what you are looking for. If not, you may prefer the south of the island where the attractions are more natural, and nowhere more so than the dramatic twin peaks of The Pitons that dominate the skyline in the south west. There is also a spectacular rainforest with its diverse flora and fauna, and even a drive-in volcano, which are both very popular. Here the pace of life is unhurried and this is what some would say is the real St Lucia that is still virtually untouched by commercialism.

Wherever you choose to stay, you cannot escape the beauty of the landscape and inviting beaches of this scenic island, and if you tire of lazing around, a variety of sports and leisure activities await you on this welcoming island.

Capital city

Castries

Population

167,000 (UN, 2008)

Area

233 sq miles

Time difference / local time

GMT -4

Language

English (official), French patois

Currency

Eastern Caribbean Dollar

Worth to see

Castries - Soufriere - Pigeon Island National Park - Marigot Bay - The Pitons - Diamond Falls - St Lucia Rum Distillery.

Beaches

Pigeon Island - Reduit Beach - Smugglers Cove - Marigot Bay - Labrelotte Bay

Sports

One 18 hole Golf Course - Tennis (in hotels) - Squash - Windsurfing - Kite surfing - Waterskiing - Snorkelling - Scuba diving - Game fishing - Mountain biking - Rainforest treks - Walking - Bird-watching.

Telephone dialling codes

+1758

Internet domain .lc
Electricity

240 V

Climate data for this region.

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