St.lucia, Pitons, Volcanos, waterfalls, Caribbean

8/14/2019 St.lucia, Pitons, Volcanos, waterfalls, Caribbean

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Company----------------Islelander TravelLocation-----------------Soufriere, St. Lucia W. I.Telephone--------------MAIN 1 (758) 486 1561Website------------------www.islelander.comEmail----------------------info@islelander.com

St. Lucia Simply Stunning. So Sophisticated

Quick Facts

Capital (and largest city): Castries - 141 N, 6059 WOfficial languages:English

Demonym:Saint Lucian

Government:Parliamentary Democracy

Independence: From the United Kingdom February 22, 1979

Total Area:620 km / 239 sq mi

Population: 166,312

GDP:$866 million

Per Capita: $5,950

Currency:East Caribbean dollar (XCD)

Time Zone :(UTC-4)Internet TLD: .lc

Country Dialing Code:+1 758

Electricity:240V/50Hz

Electric Plug Details:United Kingdom plug

Sample St. Lucia with Islelander Travel


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History of St. Lucia

St. Lucia was first settled by Arawak Indians around 200 A.D., though by 800 their culture had

been superseded by that of the Caribs. These early Amerindian cultures called the island"Iouanalao" and "Hewanorra," meaning "Island of the Iguanas."

The history of the island's European discovery is a bit hazy. It was long believed that Columbushad discovered St. Lucia in 1502, but recent evidence suggests that he merely sailed close by. Analternative discoverer is Juan de la Cosa, a lesser-known explorer who had served at one time asColumbus' navigator. There are some indications that de la Cosa may have discovered theisland in 1499, although there is also evidence suggesting that he didn't find the island until1504. In any case, there was no European presence established on the island until its settlementin the 1550s by the notorious buccaneer Francois le Clerc, a.k.a. Jambe de Bois, or Wooden Leg.Peg-Leg le Clerc set up a fine little base on Pigeon Island, from whence he issued forth to prey

upon unwitting and treasure-laden Spanish galleons. Around 1600, the Dutch arrived,establishing a fortified base at Vieux Fort.

The first attempt at colonization occurred just a few years later, in 1605. An unfortunate party ofEnglish colonists, headed to Guyana on the good ship Olive Branch, landed on St. Lucia afterhaving been blown off course. In all, sixty-seven colonists waded ashore, where they purchasedland and huts from the resident Caribs. After a month, the party had been reduced to onlynineteen, and those were soon forced to flee from the Caribs in a canoe. A few decades later, in1639, a second party of English colonists under Sir Thomas Warner also failed in theirsettlement attempt.

By mid-century the French had arrived, and had even "purchased" the island for the FrenchWest India Company. Needless to say, the persevering British were less than enchanted withthis idea, and Anglo-French rivalry for the island continued for more than a century and a half.The island's first settlements and towns were all French, beginning with Soufriere in 1746. By1780, twelve settlements and a large number of sugar plantations had been established. Two


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years earlier, the British launched their first invasion effort at the "Battle of Cul de Sac." By 1814,after a prolonged series of enormously destructive battles, the island was finally theirs.

Over the next century St. Lucia settled into the stable democracy and multicultural society thatit is today. The country remained under the British crown until it became independent within

the British Commonwealth in 1979. Despite the length of British rule, the island'sFrench cultural legacy is still evident in its Creole dialect.
http://www.geographia.com/st-lucia/lccul01.htmhttp://www.geographia.com/st-lucia/lccul01.htm


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The Culture & People of St. LuciaSt. Lucia's culture has evolved from the intermingling ofthe many different groups of people who have

participated in its history. Each has brought differentbeliefs and traditions, all of which are reflected in thelife of the island today. A visitor is likely to drive on theBritish side of the road to an Indian restaurant in aFrench town, greeted all along the way in Creolepatois.

One of the most accessible expressions of St. Lucia'srich cultural heritage is its cuisine. The fertile, volcanicsoil of the island yields an enormous supply ofproduce, and the island is one of the leading banana

exporters in the Caribbean, with six different varieties available. Inaddition to bananas, St. Lucia's abundant tropical fruits include mangoes,papayas, pineapples, soursops, passion fruit, guavas, and coconuts. Localchefs combine the island's fresh produce with a wide variety of equallyfresh seafood to create tantalizing curries, Creole-style entrees, andpepperpot stews. Callaloo soup, made from a leafy green similar tospinach, is the national dish. The island's outstanding cuisine hasrecently gained international recognition by garnering several goldmedals in the regions most prestigious culinary competitions.

But St. Lucia's culture extends far beyond the table, as the island has long

held a reputation for its intellectual and artistic talents. St. Lucia hasproduced two Nobel Prizewinners: the late Sir W. Arthur Lewis, whowon the Nobel Prize for Economics in 1979, and poet Derek Walcott, who

won the 1992 Nobel Prize for Literature.

To understand as well as enjoy St. Lucia's culture is largely a matter of gaining some sense ofthe various peoples who have contributed to it. The first of these were the Arawaks and theCaribs, Amerindian peoples indigenous to the entire Caribbean. They were expert hunters,farmers, fishermen, and skilled artists. Their primary crops were cassava, yams, sweet potatoes,all of which still play a central role in the island's food. The Amerindians were decimated by thearrival of the Europeans, and only a small number of St. Lucians can still trace their roots back

to this group. Some of the few particular aspects of Amerindian culture that survive includefarina and cassava bread, fish-pots and other local craft items. Some villages still practice theancient art of fishing in dug-out canoes.


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The next group to arrive on the shores of the island was the Europeans, primarily the Britishand the French. Though the Europeans didn't settle St. Lucia in large numbers, they had anincalculable impact on the island's history and culture. The British and French influences seemto weigh equally, despite the fact that the French lost the island in 1814. To St. Lucia's complexcultural mosaic, the British contributed their language, educational system, and legal and

political structure. French culture is more evident in the arts--music, dance, and Creole patois,which stand alongside the official language of English.

At the same time that the Europeans were bringing their own cultures to St. Lucia, Africanculture was becoming established through the arrival of slaves for European plantations and,later, indentured labourers. Their descendants constitute the largest percentage of the island'spopulation, and their proud heritage has had an enormous impact on St. Lucia's character as anation. African traditions have survived the repressions of slavery and servitude to become thestrongest element in St. Lucian culture today.

After the abolition of slavery, East Indians came to St. Lucia as indentured servants. Mostworked in the large sugar factories in the Cul-de-Sac, Roseau, and Mabouya valleys and inVieux Fort, where there is still a significant East Indian community. In comparison to otherimmigrant groups, their numbers were small. Although their traditional culture has almostdisappeared, the East Indians have had a notable and lasting influence on the island's finecuisine.


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Local CuisineSt Lucian food consists mainly

of fresh fruit and vegetables,

fish and a variety of curry, jerk,rice and stewed dishes. The coal

pot is a delicious stew,traditional to native carib

cultures and can be found atmany local restaurants in

Castries, Soufriere and Vieux-

Fort. Vegetarian and meat rotiscan be found at a number of

small local restaurants. Ask any

local for the best roti shop andhe or she will tell you how to get there. Rotis are usually made fresh inthe morning so, if eating a spicy early lunch is of interest, it's highly

recommended. Local cuisine is prepared throughout the island so,depending on where you are staying, ask a local if he or she knowssomeone/somewhere that prepares local food and you will be sure to bewelcomed somewhere nearby. Many rum shacks in rural towns also

prepare food if given advanced notice. Fish, veggie, chicken and goatmeals are very common and usually come with a number of sidesincluding salad, plantain, breadfruit, macaroni, and rice prepared a

number of different ways.

For a quick snack, barbequeswith chicken and pork can be

found in any community on a

Friday night. The food is wellmarinated and spiced. Soak up

the sauce with a barbequed or

fried bake. Fried chicken andfish can also be found, and arequite delicious.

There are weekly parties andfestivals held in various

communities throughout the island where you can also sample a range of

local foods, including sea food, barbecued meats, salads and drinks. These

festivals are filled with dancing, drinks, food and music. Let your hairdown, try some cuisine and lime it up.

St. Lucia produces some fantastic rum. Chairman's Reserve (cask-ageddark rum) is highly recommended. Piton Lager beer is brewed and bottledon the island and is very good. If you're a beer drinker, you must have

one.


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Heritage Tourism SitesFond Doux Estate

Fond Doux Estate, two miles from Soufriere, St.Lucia's most scenic town, is nestled in one of themost tranquil spots in St. Lucia. It was one of theearliest estates established by the French in the landgrants of 1745 and 1763.

The Estate comprises three trails: The Fond Doux Estate Trail, which is agentle walk through part of the cultivated area. The Chateaubelair Hill Trail requires someclimbing and is rather strenuous. It takes the climber to the high point of the Estate on theChateaubelair ridge where one can view the famous Soufriere Piton.

The third, the East Ruins Trail, is a gentle incline that takes you to the old ruins in just five (5)minutes. At Fond Doux Estate one can view various activities including traditional cocoadancing. A delicious lunch is also provided.

Toraille Waterfall

Near the town of Soufriere, just a stone's throw from the scenic main road, which passesthrough the community of Fond St. Jacques, a breathtaking waterfall gushes 50 feet over a cliffside and cascades into a pool at the centre of a charmingly landscaped garden.

A nature trail with quaint bridges and walkways leads you through the lush greens anddazzling colours of this tropical paradise. You can take a refreshing bath under the waterfall,and on days when the force of the water is not too strong, you can enjoy an invigorating backand shoulder massage under the falls. Changing rooms are nearby, as well as a seating area forpicnics.

Pigeon Island National Landmark


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Fond Latisib Creole Park

An experience of traditional practices, this inspiring visit offersdemonstrations of local traditions such as cassava bread-making,cooking on macambou leaves, authentic two-handed sawing to therhythm of a chak chak band, honey collection and traditional methodsfor catching crayfish. A truly "kweyol" experience.

Grand Anse Estate

Des Barras Turtle Watch

Join a small group on an overnight camp and participate in aconservation process.Grande Anse, about 10km north of Dennery on the east coast, is one ofthe most important beaches in the region for nesting sea turtles.Pounded by a dramatic (and dangerous) surf, this ruggedly beautifulspot has never been developed, and the only signs of human habitationare the lights of the village of Desbarras that twinkle up on the distanthillside once night falls. Most of the time the beach is empty, but fromMarch to August a steady trickle of visitors make the dirt-track truckride to experience a true natural wonder the spectacle of leatherback turtles, the worlds

largest living reptiles, coming ashore to lay their eggs.

Piton Flore Rainforest Trail

The Piton Flore Nature Trail is situated within the northeasternsection of the island at Forestierre and forms part of the TropicalRainforest. The trail is only thirty (30) minutes drive from the city,Castries. It is part of the Old French Road, which traverses throughmature pristine rainforest, abundant with large, spectacular fig trees,epiphytes, and ferns, from Forestierre to La Resource, Dennery.

The trail extends 1871 ft up to summit of Piton Flore. More thanlikely, the distinctive calls of the National bird AmazonaVersicolor(St. Lucian Parrot) may be heard and if one is fortunate


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enough, you may have a rare glimpse of this unique and beautiful bird. Arrival at the summit ofPiton Flore provides a thrill and a breathtaking view of the island.

Fond Dor Nature reserve, Historical Park & Horse Back Riding

Located in the heart of the Mabouya Valley on the east coast of St. Lucia, Fond d'Or offers thevisitor a truly unique experience.

This tranquil nature site includes traces of Amerindian settlement, historic sugar plantationbuildings, hiking trails, mangroves, estuarine forest and a wide white sand beach.

Ideal for family picnics, or any type of group activity. Horseback riding, bird and turtlewatching, an interpretation centre (museum) all add to the grandeur of the experience.

Mamiku Gardens

The Historical Gardens of Madame de Micoud set in 12 acres of natural woodlands areconsidered the best in the Caribbean.

A series of different gardens are hidden in the forest, where an abundance of orchids, birds,butterflies and Tropical Flowers continually surprise the visitor. The Creole medicinal herbgarden and a mini Banana Plantation walk have recently been added.

Latille Waterfalls & Gardens

Latille Waterfall and Gardens is situated just off the east coast a littleway into the interior of the island where the rainforest begins.


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The 20ft waterfall cascades into a deep pool in which visitors may swim before exploring thescenic watercourse and additional pools downstream.

The falls are accessed through a tranquil and well-maintained organically grown fruit, herbaland flower garden, with a charming wattle hut orientation centre

Gros Piton Trail

As you proceed to the summit, experience a breathtaking,panoramic view of the Choiseul village, Petit Piton, and theentire southern-western part of the island. The trail begins inthe community of Fond Gens Libre, which translates into"Village of the Free People".

Numerous Brigand sites can be seen including caves, tunnels,signal stations, look-outs and landing sites. The community ofFond Gens Libre manages the Gros Piton Nature Trail incollaboration with the Department of Forestry. The hike ismoderate to strenuous, and takes about four (4) hours round-trip.

Anse La Raye Fish Friday

On a Friday evening, the village of Anse-La-Raye located on the west coast of St. Lucia, comesalive as the villagers prepare a St. Lucian seafood extravaganza, which includes local delicaciessuch as lobster, Lambi, Octopus, and a variety of other fish.

Sit and relax whilst enjoying the ambiance of Anse-La-Raye, or dance tothe best of local and Caribbean music - on the street with the crowd orin one of several small bars and nightclubs.


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Lushan Country Life

Lushan Country Life is a place like no other, beautiful in its simplicity;

yet a complex mico eco-system of a staggering set of bird species,butterflies, insects, trees, plants, herbs and fruits. Start along the ForestTrail which is a refuge to over 27 species of birds including the Antilean Crested Hummingbirdand the Broad Winged Hawk. There are over 143 plant species here- and many of the trees suchas Bayleaf, Mahagony, Bwa Lanmowi and White Cedar used by country folk for boat buildingand furniture making among other uses.

Remember a time when life used to be simpler? A time before work, technology and the hustleand bustle of modern life took you further and further away from your true nature? Return to asimpler time and space, where you can reclaim that lost sense of well-being. Lushan CountryLife gives you a rare anecdotal glimpse into the rich past of country life in St. Lucia. Enjoy theinformative, sometimes hilarious anecdotes about how some of whatyoull see related to country living. One of the first stops will be the KaiPye- a traditional Amerindian Hut, authentically outfitted with theprimitive tools, utensils and fireplace our forefathers used centuries ago.

At Lushan Country Life theres a unique balance of the traditionaldomestic, the wild and the free. Another featured attraction is the BeeObservation House where visitors can safely see first-hand how honey

and honey comb is made.


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East Coast Trail

Exploring St Lucia's wild and beautiful

Atlantic Coast is an experience not to be

missed. The East Coast Trail which ends at

the fishing community of Praslin offers three

(3) unique tours, which can be done

separately or in combination with each other.

The hike to the Fregate Islands Nature

Reserve offers the opportunity to see the

Fregate birds and other wildlife in their

natural habitat. The Praslin Island Canoe

Excursion takes you to a little island off the

shore of Praslin, where you will also learn

about local seamoss cultivation. Finally, if you decide the hike the entire stretch, you start

further north and hike down the coast to Praslin, which takes about 2 1/2 hours. The Eastern

Nature Trail also referred to as the Atlantic Coast Hike.

Balenbouche Estate

This unique historic site and working plantation islocated on the South-western coast of St Lucia, amidsta beautiful tropical garden. Highlights include a 150year old antique furnished plantation house, theremains of an impressive 18th century sugar mill, anda collection of artifacts left behind by the indigenousAmerindian peoples. Exotic meals are served on theveranda of the estate house. The unique blend of old-world charm, unspoiled nature, and warm hospitalityat this secluded location will truly capture you.Balenbouche Estate is also a vacation retreat, which

offers Caribbean villas as well as rooms in thePlantation house.


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St. Lucia possesses a topography and ecology of stunning beauty, matched by no other locationin the Caribbean. The island's pride in its natural resources is evident in the country's ongoingprotection and conservation efforts. In the mountainous interior lies the enormous NationalRain Forest, and the island's protected coastal sights include the breathtaking, unforgettablespires of Les Pitons. All sorts of nature hikes, tours, and programs have been developed toshowcase these peerless assets, allowing visitors to enjoy the island without harming its

complex and fragile environment.

St. Lucia's environmental philosophy also extends beyond its shoreline to the protection of itsbeautiful coral reefs, with their rich and diverse tropical sea life. The government has createdfour preservation areas, encompassing all of the island's outstanding reefs. Water sportsenthusiasts, divers, and boat owners are required to purchase a permit before entering thereserve, and the fees are used for repairs to the reef and preserving threatened marine species.

Natural Attractions, Fun Excursions & Lushan

PartiesGros Piton TrailPetit Piton Nature ClimbMount Gimie Nature ClimbFond Doux Nature TrailSulphur Springs Home to worlds only drive-in volcanoDiamond Botanical GardensDiamond Mineral WaterfallsAnse La Liberte Camping and Hiking SiteMorne Fortune

Pigeon Island National LandmarkFond WaterfallsMankote MangroveBel Vue Sugar MillMoule a Chique Light house & Old Radar Tracking Station
http://www.geographia.com/st-lucia/lceco01.htm#naturehttp://www.geographia.com/st-lucia/lceco01.htm#nature


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Balenbouche EstateMaria islandsMount GimieUnion Nature TrailsNaturalist TourMorne Le Blanc/LaborieSouthern SafariATV ToursHardy Point Cactus Valley Walking TrekBird WatchingRainforest Sky RidesTree Top AdventureSailingSurfingDivingSnorkelingKayaking

BikingHorseback RidingAnse la Raye Fish FridayDennery Fish FiestaCanaries Creole PotRainforest Sky RidesTree top Adventures

Nature Trails

Gros Piton TrailCas-En-Bas Hiking TrailBarre De LIsle Rainforest TrailMandele PointFregate Islands Nature ReservePraslin Island ToursDes Cartiers TrailPiton Flore TrailUnion Nature Trail & Mini ZooTet Paul Nature TrailForestiere Rainforest TrailMillet Bird Santuary TrailEdmund Rainforest TrailEn Bas Saut Waterfall Trail


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Waterfalls in St. Lucia

Diamond Waterfall

Traveler Description: A row of hot tubs whose steaming mineral waters are reputed to possesscurative powers.


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Torraille Waterfalls

Traveler Description:Pass through the town of Soufriere to get to the Toraille Waterfall and Gardens.

The gardens' main attraction is a breathtaking 50-foot waterfall that gushes over a cliff and cascades

into a natural pool. There is ample time to enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool or a leisurely walk through

the lush flowers and tropical foliage.


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River Rock Waterfall

Travelers Description: For a wonderful spot with an organized picnic area, River Rock is an ideal place

to cool off after a day spent exploring the myriad attractions of Anse la Raye.

A large pool has been created at the base of the cascading falls which provides ample room for

swimming. There is a changing area and a bar that sells wonderful cold Pitons, making it the perfect

place to spend several hours in quiet reflection. There is often a local musician strumming his guitar and

singing soulful reggae numbers in a quiet salute to Bob Marley. The entrance to River Rock Falls is

signposted on the left hand side of the road as you approach the village from the north. The falls

themselves are reached on foot via an easy trail.


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Anse La Raye Waterfall

Travelers Description:Go past the thick carpets of sweet smelling ginger and anthirium lilies, the

children fishing in the river for small fish and crayfish and on your right is a deep water pool in which you

are allowed to bathe.

A further 10 minutes inland takes you to a small green banana shed, alongside which is a well tended

trail. If you take a small turn right down the hill, over the craggy rocks and step over a series of river

stones you will soon find yourself at the base of the Anse La Raye waterfall. As this is the water intake

for the village bathing here is strictly prohibited, but the scenery is stunning and well worth the short

walk along the trail.


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Piton Waterfalls

Travelers Description: The Piton Waterfall is comprised of three separate pools that vary in water

temperature from hot to tepid and is most healing for the body. Owned by the Sylvester Family, it

offers a lovely hike followed by an herbal swim that will leave you feeling refreshed and rested. I

enjoyed my visit with one of the Sylvester brothers who told me the history of the falls. Fifty years ago

the family would go to the falls every weekend for picnics and swimmingmost enjoyable familyoutings. When the tourist trade started really developing in the Pitons, Euratius Sylvester decided to

turn the falls into a National Heritage Site and began developing the area. He built pools at the bottom

of the falls and channeled water into them - these pools naturally maintain themselves, each at a

different temperature, which is delightful for bathing. I began in the hot pool and worked my way to the

waterfall itself, which is the coldest. My Islelander guide, Janus, then took me back to our boat where I

had the best afternoon nap in years.

So book with Islelander Travel (www.islelander.com) and be to add the Piton Mineral Waterfalls on your

St. Lucia agenda youll be glad you did.

Enbas Saut Falls
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Traveler Description: As a traveler, you are always hoping to stumble onto places which inspire and

amaze. That is exactly what happened to me on the Enbas Saut rain forest trail in southern St. Lucia.

After a strenuous hour hiking deep into the forest interior we turned a bend in the path to find this

stunning waterfall. Once the shock wore off we couldnt resist changing into our swim suits and heading

in for a swim. I can still remember how cold the water was as I let it fall on me from the rocks above. I

havent been to many places which were so surprisingly beautiful and I still smile every time I think of

how lucky I am to have captured such an excellent shot of one of my favorite memories.

Canaries Waterfalls


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Travelers Description: Nestled in the Grand Bois Reserve about three miles east of the village of

Canaries, the Canaries Waterfall is easily accessible by both car and foot. The road leading through the

rainforest to the falls is paved and well maintained. Plenty of shade is provided throughout the hike and

lush fauna drape over the roadway. Small plantations line the hillsides, where youll see local farmers

picking grapefruits, mangos and digging up dasheen. If youre lucky, a wave and kind word just might

land you a backpack full of grapefruits from one of the farmers.

One of my favorite activities with the Islelander guys in St. Lucia. Totally chill. I caught a massive fish.

Had to be at least 5 ounces. Great eating later that evening.

Saltibus Waterfalls


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Travelers Description:The Saltibus Waterfall Trail is a beautiful two hour hike through a lush

mountaintop rainforest and ends in a series of large natural waterfalls perfect for a swim. The trail is

moderate in difficulty and can be enjoyed by nearly everyone.

The trail is located in South East Choiseul and begins just outside the mountainous community of

Saltibus. Along the trail you can spot various animals such as the St. Lucia Parrot, the St. Lucia Pygmy

Gecko, and mongoose; and flora such as bamboo, breadfruit, grapefruit, coconut, and orchids.

The waterfalls are a series of four or five cascading falls ranging in height from ten to thirty feet. The

water comes from the ground and is pure and very cold. During the rainy season the trail can be slippery

so be sure and wear appropriate footwear.

And many more


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Real Fun, Real Adventure & A Real Island

Experience

"Having Difficulty Deciding where to stay or what to do?Well We Make It Easy

At Islelander our team of travel experts provides you with up to date advice and travel

arrangements that would best suit you. Helping clients to get the best deals on their travelarrangements in St. Lucia, with the least amount of hassle, within the timescale requested by

the client. We provide both businesses and individual clients with professional travel

arrangements. Using all resources available and experienced organizers, our service is designed

to take all of the stress out of making travel plans. Here's a short list of some of our services.

(1) Airport Pickup

(2) Travel Companion Services

(3) 24 hrs Island Guide Hotline

(4) Vacation Budgeting Services(5) Rain Forest Hikes and Nature Tours

(6) Shopping Trips to City

(7) Sea and Land Island Tour


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(8) Escorted Boat Snorkel Tour

(9) Plantation Tours

(10) Botanical Gros Piton Tour

(11) Zip Lining and Canopy Tours

(12) Petit Piton Climb(13) Much, Much More....

Team Leader

KERSHAMA PHILIP

[email protected]

www.islelander.com

Tel: (758) 486 1561

Fax:(758) 457 1543
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.islelander.com/http://www.islelander.com/http://www.islelander.com/mailto:[email protected]


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Company----------------Islelander TravelLocation-----------------Soufriere, St. Lucia W. I.Telephone--------------MAIN 1 (758) 486 1561Website------------------www.islelander.com


There is so much to do here, in St. Lucia

Experience, Explore & Enjoy with Islelander Travel

St.lucia, Pitons, Volcanos, waterfalls, Caribbean

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