Diverse St Lucia

The North and South of the island provide noticeable contrasts, with the South all about the Pitons - the island’s defining feature - a World Heritage Site consisting of two volcanic mountains, and the North being the place to party.

Even though St Lucia may not have the African vibe of Jamaica, it has defined itself as a party island. The annual Jazz festival, which usually takes place in the summer months, has played host to stars such as John Legend, Chaka Khan and some of the Cuban Buena Vista Social Club, and attracts both tourists and fellow West Indians from neighbouring islands. If you aren’t in the country at the time, do not fear as every Friday the party heads to Gros Islet for ‘Jump Up’, where tourists mix with locals to dance, sing and enjoy the street food where limin’ (better known as chilling in English) is the only thing on everyone’s minds.

The best way to see St Lucia is from a boat, so when all of that limin’ gets too much, whizz down the coast with a cool box full of Pitons (the local beer, named after the eponymous mountains) to enjoy the idyllic beaches and spectacular landscape of the South. Stop off en-route at the ancient town of Soufriere to visit the world’s only ‘drive-in’ volcano. This consists of 12 volcanic craters that, although dormant, still bubble away. Beware, the sulphur does produce a considerable stench, but the remarkable sight is well worth it and the locals think it is lucky.

Snorkel between the Pitons, climb them or just take in the outstanding natural beauty of the area as you laze on the pristine white beaches. Adventure and relaxation are both on the cards in St Lucia, and we have found some of the best properties that give you the best of both.