Choose dates. Tick. Check weather. Tick. Book flights. Tick. Sort hotel. Tick. Once you’ve pushed the green light, fixed the time off work and started the holiday countdown clock, we know how tempting it can be to plan nothing but 7 horizontal days of cocktail-sipping and sun-soaking. However, you mustn’t forget the people, places, landscapes, journeys and experiences that you can have beyond the hotel gates. The island of Saint Lucia is so very special and we implore you to indulge in its vibrant colours and spectacular scenery, tropical wildlife and charming culture. Here are the Turquoise top six must-do’s whilst on holiday in Saint Lucia;
1. Climb the Stairway to heaven
There’s a good reason why the Tet Paul Nature Trail is known as the Stairway to Heaven. The scenery along this stunning hiking trail is sheer bliss. Make your wa, through tropical blooms and take in the breath-taking views of Saint Lucia’s renowned Piton Mountains. A local expert will guide you along your journey, where you will learn about the flora, fauna and rich culture and history of Saint Lucia. The locals say this is the best spot to take in the majestic view of the twin peaks.
2. Visit Mother Nature’s spa
This is definitely one to tick off your bucket list…. visit the only “drive-in” volcano in the world! Although the last recorded eruption was in the late 1700’s, once inside you will immediately see, hear and smell(!) that you are in an active geothermal zone. Venture a little further down to the Sulphur Springs in Soufriere and take a dip in the pleasantly warm pools. The mineral-rich mud from these volcanic springs is said to be the secret to soft and glowing skin, so indulge in a spot of pampering at Mother Nature’s spa.
3. Explore the flavours of the island
Bring the taste of sunshine back to your own kitchen and learn the secrets of zesty Creole cuisine. For a hands-on culinary experience, book a private cooking class with your own expert chef. Discover the native fruits, vegetables, herbs and delicious spices and infuse them in your own culinary creations. After, take a stroll through a traditional Saint Lucian herb garden, bursting with the fragrant aromas and tropical blooms of jasmine, orchid and frangipani.
4. Make your own chocolate
For centuries, many have accredited chocolate with aphrodisiac powers. Whether this is true or not, you will love learning to make chocolate together in the charming surroundings of Boucan by Hotel Chocolat. Unique to Saint Lucia’s Rabot Estate, the “Bean to Bar” experience starts with the opportunity to see the master chocolatiers at work. From here you will handpick your own cocoa pods and be taken through the process of fermenting, drying and roasting the beans. Finally, produce your own mouth-wateringly tempting chocolate bars, as a delicious love token that probably won’t last very long!
5. Sample the local rum
Rum is the spirit of Saint Lucia. You can’t visit this magical island without trying one of the local rums! From spiced to smooth vanilla and everything in between, you’ll be spoilt for choice. For a truly authentic Caribbean experience, seek out a local distillery and spend an evening listening to steal drums sipping on your favourite rum tipple!
6. Explore life under the waves
The reef at Anse de Pitons is renowned for being the home of the islands best snorkelling. Whether you spend half your life in the water or this is your first time, Anse Piton will make you feel at ease. Due to the location being at the base of the two pitons, the scenery is very dramatic creating an incredible snorkelling experience. Expect to see trumpet fish, shoals of small squid and many other beautiful creatures of the underwater world!
Inspired to visit Saint Lucia? Click here for itinerary ideas and here for our favourite hand-picked hotels for the ultimate romantic getaway!
