The legendary beauty of Saint Lucia provides the perfect backdrop for adventure: mountains to climb, forests to explore, an underwater world to discover.
Traverse the golf course in the footsteps of Jack Nicklaus, bike along the steep mountain trail — a favourite of Tinker Juarez — jog along the beach as did Usain Bolt, or dance under the Caribbean stars, just like Cheryl Burke.
The perfection of this escape should be shared. Tropical weather, welcoming accommodations and unexpected adventures await all who travel to this paradise island. Romance can be found at upmarket resorts and intimate inns. Bask together under the Caribbean sun, sail into a champagne sunset and cuddle beneath the vast starry sky.
For those planning a family getaway, enjoy on-site water parks, kids’ menus and evening entertainment for everyone. Adventure seekers can surf and sail in the pristine waters. ATV adventures and rainforest zip-lining are family favourites. Relaxation isn’t far off either with many resorts offering kids’ activities so parents can enjoy a cocktail, a quiet hour together, or a couple’s massage.
Saint Lucia’s resorts win awards every year for their outstanding accommodations, services, spas and more. In 2011, Jade Mountain was voted as one of the top three Caribbean Resorts by readers of Conde Nast Traveler.
Rising majestically above the 600-acre beach-front resort of Anse Chastanet, Jade Mountain is built in harmony with Caribbean nature celebrating an unparalleled view of the Pitons and the Carribbean Sea. Individual bridges lead to infinity pool sanctuaries and rugged stone-faced columns reaching towards the sky makes Jade Mountain one of the Caribbean’s most mesmerizing resort experiences.
Located on the west coast in Soufriere, Jade Mountain is nearby to a number of activities. Tour operator Real St. Lucia Tours offers a day trip to the only drive-in volcano in the world. The Sulphur Springs is known as one of the main sightseeing attractions of St. Lucia.
While it hasn’t erupted for over 200 years, the volcano still has signs of boiling mud. The water in the volcano is said to have therapeutic qualities. Or, take a tour of the Gros Piton trail, famous for its remarkable views overlooking the sea. The hike to the top takes two to three hours on a relatively straight forward trail.
Diamond Falls is also located just outside of Soufriere, featuring pools at different temperatures that are mineral rich. The waterfall contains minerals and its stream emits from rainwater mixed with volcanism which gives the falls a unique colourful appearance that changes frequently. Spike Waterfall is also impressive and located in the rainforest in Soufriere.
Spend time at the Anse Chastanet beach, known for excellent scuba diving and snorkeling. Reefs are accessible by simply swimming a few metres out from the beach. This is a particularly nice site for snorkeling and for first-time divers and home to many species of marine life including large trumpet fish and turtles.
Take in the nightlife and savour legendary cuisine on just about every corner in Soufriere that incorporates the freshest island produce and seafood. Check out Jardin Cacao Restaurant and Bar located on a 250-year-old working plantation nestled above Soufriere. Creole and international-style meals are created from organic produce taken from bountiful gardens while you relax amongst nature. For something more upscale go to Dasheene located at the Ladera resort, nestled on the mountainside 1,000 feet above sea-level. Visitors flock here to enjoy award-winning cuisine and the spectacular views.
Visit www.stlucianow.ca to find more on special offers and accommodations.
