words edel cassidy photos saint lucia tourism authority, edel cassidy
Many of us feel the irresistible pull of wanderlust – the urge to explore new places and immerse ourselves in different cultures. But how do we balance that adventurous spirit with the need for rest and relaxation? Finding time to recharge is essential, and luckily, the world offers countless destinations that blend cultural discovery, stunning scenery and unforgettable experiences at a more relaxed pace. One such destination is the beautiful island of St. Lucia.
My plan for this trip was to unwind and recharge the mind while enjoying the amenities around me. I checked into Calabash Cove and could easily have spent my entire stay there without leaving. For the first two days, I mingled with other guests, savoured fine food, wine and cocktails and lounged by the pool. I also tried beach activities like paddle boarding and kayaking, and indulged in rejuvenating spa treatments at the hotel’s Ti Spa.
By day three, my curious nature kicked in, and I couldn’t resist exploring the natural wonders of St. Lucia. After all, who wouldn’t be drawn to rainforests, waterfalls, volcanic spires and mud baths? I set off to the Babonneau Rainforest, eager to witness its lush vegetation and local wildlife. For thrill-seekers, there’s zip-lining between trees, while those seeking a more down-to-earth experience can opt for peaceful forest walks. I chose the perfect middle ground, a scenic aerial tram ride. Gliding above the treetops, I marvelled at the towering ferns, giant trees and diverse plant life that make up this tropical paradise. To my delight, I even spotted a hummingbird. Our guide, who accompanied us on the tram, was not only knowledgeable but entertaining, sharing fascinating insights about the native species and the forest’s ecosystem. Standing amidst the serene atmosphere of the rainforest felt like therapy.
I then ventured to Sulphur Springs to sample the mud baths at the world’s only drive-in volcano. The hot springs, known for their detoxifying properties, attract visitors from around the globe and claim to help heal sunburn, eczema, insect bites and sore joints. Soaking in the warm, sulphur-rich water was incredibly soothing, and applying the volcanic mud to my skin before rinsing off in the natural hot spring felt invigorating. This is an absolute must-do while visiting St. Lucia. Refreshed after my therapeutic session, I had lunch at Rabot Restaurant at the nearby Hotel Chocolat, where the menu is centred around cacao, incorporating it into both sweet and savoury dishes, as well as cocktails.
The Tet Paul Nature Trail, just a ten-minute drive from Sulphur Springs, is a wonderful addition to a day of exploring St. Lucia’s southwest. This easy-to-moderate hike takes about 45 minutes and the panoramic views at the top make it well worth the effort – I had a clear view of the famous Pitons, surrounding lush green landscapes and sparkling Caribbean Sea. Along the trail, our guide shared fascinating insights about native plants and their medicinal uses and we visited the Cassava House, a traditional home once inhabited by the ancestors of the current owners.
A spectacular landmark of St. Lucia visible for miles, Petit Piton and Gros Piton are twin volcanic spires and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Petit Piton stands at 743 metres, while Gros Piton, at 798 metres, is the more frequently climbed of the two. It’s a steep but manageable ascent but is only suitable for experienced hikers due to its rocky sections and physically demanding nature, with the hike taking around 4–5 hours. Petit Piton is rarely climbed, especially in rainy weather. For safety, hiring a local guide is mandatory.
Many visitors to St. Lucia choose to spend the majority of their time at a single resort, and for good reason – options across the island provide the perfect setting for those looking to unwind and relax. Resorts in the north offer easy access to a host of beaches, restaurants, shopping and nightlife if that’s the goal. In contrast, the south is known for its natural attractions like the Pitons, Sulphur Springs and waterfalls. For my final two nights, I relocated to a more secluded resort, Têt Rouge on the south of the island, again with the mission to totally decompress; plus, I’d be situated closer to the airport for a stress-free journey home.
One evening, I dined at the highly recommended nearby Soley Kouche Restaurant, which exceeded my expectations. Seated on the terrace, I watched the sun set while tucking into outstanding food with a perfect harmony of flavours. The staff, including the talented chef Kyrah Henry, were very attentive.
Whether you’re interested in cacao estate tours, jungle hikes, scuba diving or dolphin and whale watching, there are many more attractions in St. Lucia than I could manage in a short visit. All the more reason to return to this idyllic Caribbean island.
- ‘Holiday in St. Lucia: Tranquillity, adventure and unforgettable views’ is published in Anthology Volume 22. Read more features from this volume or buy it now.
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