As we approached the island, the first thing I noticed was the massive rainbow that we were about to fly right under. The island of St. Lucia was covered in misty clouds and a fine rain-shower, producing a beautiful rainbow…what a wonderful greeting and first impression for me, a first-time visitor. As we circled the island preparing to land, I saw even more smaller rainbows. And throughout my stay, I saw many more…especially from Tet Paul, one of the mid-sized hiking mountains on the southern end. Beautiful to say the least…and anyone who knows me well knows that I have kind of a thing for rainbows. Going to this island was meant to be.
We decided to stay on the southern end of the island as the northern part was very touristy, from what I’ve been told. We opted for a private cabin in the rainforest, on a resort built on a still-functioning cocoa plantation. The Fond Doux Planation and Resort was exactly what I was looking for…
The resort was extremely rustic, tucked away in the well-cared for grounds of the plantation surrounded by flowers, tropical forest and cocoa plants. I didn’t want to stay in a modern resort, I wanted to feel like I was sleeping under the trees with all the sounds of the island. This resort did not disappoint. It was SO authentic, we even woke up on our last morning to an island visitor, cozied up on the ceiling of our cabin…a tarantula (yes, apparently they ARE real and love spending time with vacationers). I’ll be honest, the tarantula was the size of a small dog. Yep. The staff quickly removed our guest…what else can you expect when staying in the rainforest?? I appreciated the authenticity! Not to mention the hummingbirds, butterflies, banana trees, cocoa plants and waterfalls. Oh, and their daily breakfast was AMAZING…why does island food taste so good? You can’t be a picky eater, you have to embrace foreign dishes! Everything tasted great…
Highly recommend an ATV tour. Such a great way to SEE the island. There are so many places you just can’t get to… like historic abandoned buildings and secluded beaches. This tour had all of that.
If you visit the southern end of the island you have to swim between the cliffs at Sugar Beach.
I had the privilege of swimming in this beautiful area on my birthday. It was amazing to be floating in clear water, on a gorgeous island day, on a white sandy beach, drinking a pina colada on my actual birthday….best day ever.
Go hiking!!! This island has a lot to see, and if you are a nature lover, you must check out the trails. It’s quite a workout…DO IT! You might see a rainbow at the top. We didn’t have enough time to climb the Pitons, it is at the top of our list for our next visit…
Don’t skimp on dinner! It’s worth it…
Have a romantic dinner at a fabulous restaurant. We had dinner at the majestic Dasheene Restaurant located at the Ladera Resort.
You look out over the sea and the Piton mountains. It is pricey, but so incredible… if you can go to see the sun set while you are dining, it is truly unforgettable. My birthday dinner was at Boucan by Hotel Chocolat. Almost everything was infused with cocoa, and so very yummy. And, the view here was unforgettable as well! If you go, don’t forget to start out with a chocolate martini…
All I can say is “go there!” We wished we could have stayed a few more days, we never made it to the north side of the island, but…that is also the best reason to go back! Definitely rent a car…that’s the ideal way to get around unless you plan on staying put at the resort. So much to see, though, so make the most of it! This is one beautiful place surrounded by ocean, and I can’t wait to plan our next adventure there. We are eye-balling Jade Mountain…um, incredible!!!
Happy travels!! And on to the next amazing experience….
H & N
Welcome to our Book of Adventures 