The Town of Soufriere

Almost frozen in time, the town of Soufriere was former French colonial capital of St Lucia. Evidence abounds in the delicate fretwork of the colonial architecture that has survived, with the belfry of the Catholic Church dominating the roofline of the town’s centre. Fronting the serene Soufriere Bay, the town is the portal into the lush, fertile interior, keeper of the area’s history, tradition and geological wonders.

Soufriere offers opportunities for just the right amount of activity or inactivity preferred by visitors. Several tranquil bays in its environs are ideal for lounging, beachcombing, swimming, snorkeling, diving or kayaking. For the more energetic, hikes and trails abound including the salubrious Edmund rainforest trail and the ambitious Gros Piton hike, a steep ascent with vistas that reward the persistent. The famous sulphur springs are just a short drive away and mineral baths, waterfalls and botanical gardens are plentiful.

The bounty of the ocean and the fertile agricultural lands around the town mean that fresh local produce is on offer at every turn, whether at a street side stalls or at fine restaurants serving everything from Creole fare to French fusion cuisine.

"This is the first time in any vacation that we didn't want to leave the villa. We only returned out to get groceries. Even then we couldn't wait to get back to this magical place. I'll have this place etched in mind forever"

- Sonia & Paul, Canada January 2010.