This beautiful island in the West Indies is not only one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean, it’s also home to some of the region’s most stunning mountains and beaches, and the nation’s tourism board is encouraging visitors to discover summer St. Lucia style.
St Lucia is, of course, known for its mountains, the Piton, designated as World Heritage Sites for their natural beauty. These iconic mountains are surrounded by gorgeous beaches, making St Lucia the best of both worlds for adrenaline junkies looking to ride cliff-top ziplines and beach bums looking to relax by the waves.
Now’s the Time to Visit St Lucia
Getting to this part of the Caribbean Islands is now easier than ever, with direct flights available from across the United States and Canada, as well as Europe.
On top of spending time at some of the Caribbean’s best luxury resorts, the island is also encouraging visitors to experience the amazing culture of St Lucia with a unique program called Collection de Pépites. The French term for a “collection of nuggets” (or “nugget collection”), this exciting program showcases the hidden gems of the island by promoting over 400 smaller accommodations.
The program puts an emphasis on locally owned B&Bs, hotels and inns that offer more of a slice of the island life than the big brand names and are perfect for travelers who want to wander off the beaten path. These venues are spread out across the island and aim to offer more variety in their experiences than what’s available at the traditional resort campus.
Community-based Tourism on the Rise
This new program is part of the island’s larger push towards community-based tourism, allowing the island’s locals to share their unique culture with the world. It includes events like the Lucian Carnival in July, a week-long party filled with costumes and dancing. The incredible food, music, parades and Fetes of the Carnival draw locals and visitors alike into the capital, Castries, and is just one example of the rich Caribbean culture that the island has to offer.
The island’s emphasis on local culture has also spawned a new partnership program between the tourism board and several local communities, including Anse le Ray and Soufriere. These partnerships enable visitors to enjoy unique opportunities to experience the vibrant lifestyle of St Lucia outside of their resort and to discover and experience the island’s authentic side.
Enjoy a Stay at a Luxury Hotel in St. Lucia
There are many luxury hotels in St. Lucia, each with its own unique features and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting vacation full of activities, there’s a St. Lucia hotel that’s perfect for your needs and preferences.
Here are a few popular posh hotels in St. Lucia that you should consider if you’re looking for a great place to enjoy the island’s stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, relaxed vibe… and a healthy dose of luxury:
Jade Mountain Resort: Set on over 600 acres of lush tropical vegetation, this 5-star resort offers incredible views over Anse Chastanet Beach and the Caribbean Sea. Amenities include a classy sea-view restaurant, a luxe spa, plus a dive center. Visit Jade Mountain Resort for the latest reviews, rates, and reservations.
Anse Chastanet Resort – This secluded beachside property offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and lush green gardens complete with pools and walking paths. Visit Anse Chastanet Resort for further details, including reviews, rates, and reservations.
Looking for alternatives? Check out these wonderful destinations in the Caribbean Islands.
Plan your St Lucia vacation at www.stlucia.org/en/.
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Contributor Charlie Wagner-Chazalon is a travel enthusiast who splits his time between Muskoka and Toronto, Ontario.
