What are the Main Things to See and Do in Castries?

Castries is the capital of the Caribbean island nation of St. Lucia and is also the most populous city in St. Lucia. Located on the western part of the island, visitors to Castries will experience a bustling atmosphere, Caribbean vibes and a multitude of unique attractions. From zip-lining through the canopy to astounding botanical gardens to hiking some of the island’s most breathtaking trails, a visit to Castries can be a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Let’s explore some of the top things to do in Castries.

Visit Pigeon Island National Park

One of the most exciting activities in Castries is visiting Pigeon Island National Park. This historic attraction dates back to the 1700s and is a great place for history buffs to learn about the island’s past. During your visit, you can explore the ruins of old military fortifications and even the ruins of an old British barracks. You can also take a look at some Independence War monuments and enjoy some stunning views of Martinique Island and other parts of St. Lucia. Visitors can also find a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling and fishing.

Zip Hasse

Zip Hasse is an aerial zip line adventure that will give you a bird’s eye view of Castries and the surrounding areas. The zip line course is 7 kilometers long, with 8 different platforms that are between 150 feet and 500 feet above the ground. Zip Hasse will certainly get your heart racing as you push yourself on this thrilling journey. Tour guides are there to provide assistance and safety tips as needed.

Exploring Marigot Bay

Marigot Bay is one of St. Lucia’s most scenic locations, known for its white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters and magnificent scenery. Marigot Bay is especially popular for its boating activities, with visitors having the chance to rent kayaks, canoes or even a yacht at one of the many marinas in the area. The bay is also home to a variety of marine life, making it perfect for diving and snorkeling. Even if you don’t have time to rent a boat, you can enjoy Marigot Bay’s beauty by taking a leisurely stroll around its shoreline or simply lounging on its white sand beaches.

Exploring the Soufrière Town and Volcano

Soufriere Town is located on St. Lucia’s southwest coast and is home to some of the island’s most stunning scenery. Here, visitors will have the chance to admire incredible views of St. Lucia’s Pitons mountain range and also visit some of its nearby attractions like Sulphur Springs Park and Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens. For those looking for an adventure, hiking up the Soufriere volcano is also an option. This activity will take about 45 minutes to reach the summit, where spectacular views and an adrenaline rush await those brave enough to take on this challenge.

Take a Boat Cruise to Soufrière

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Soufriere is to take a boat tour. Cruises vary in length, but a typical St. Lucia day cruise will take you around the south coast where you can admire towering mountains, fragrant vegetation, secluded golden beaches and lush tropical rainforests as well as a host of marine wildlife like dolphins, sea turtles and colourful fish. One company that offers these tours is Simply St Lucia Holidays. Alternatively, visitors can also hire their own yacht or sailboat for an intimate day at sea or even for a few days away from it all. To sum up, there is no shortage of things to do in Castries! From adventure activities like zip-lining through the forest canopy to exploring some of St. Lucia’s most stunning beaches and scenic sites, visitors are sure to find something that interests them during their stay here. In addition, there are plenty of historical attractions, outdoor opportunities, cultural experiences, delicious cuisine offerings and much more that can all be enjoyed in Castries!

A Local’s Insider Guide to Castries: Discovering Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Castries, the capital city of Saint Lucia, is a bustling and vibrant destination known for its scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and welcoming people. If you’re looking to explore the city from a local’s perspective, here’s a comprehensive guide to discovering some of the hidden gems of Castries.

Local Attractions: Exploring the Lesser-Known Wonders of Castries

While tourists flock to the typical attractions in Castries, there’s more to this city than meets the eye. For instance, the Choc Cemetery might not seem like an obvious attraction, but it provides a fascinating insight into Saint Lucia’s colonial past. The cemetery is home to the oldest surviving gravestone in Saint Lucia, dating back to 1756. Another hidden gem is the Derek Walcott Square, which is named after the island’s only Nobel laureate in literature. The square features Walcott’s poetry etched into the pavement, making it a hub of literary and artistic inspiration. Finally, a trip to Castries wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Rodney Bay Marina, where you can enjoy a range of watersports and amazing restaurants.

Dining Spots: Savoring Castries’ Unique Culinary Traditions

Castries has a rich culinary heritage, with influences from African, French, and British cultures. One must-try local dish is Accra, a deep-fried fritter made of cassava and saltfish. You can get it fresh from street vendors or enjoy it with a view of the harbor at Coal Pot, a popular seafood restaurant. Another hidden gem for local cuisine is Delirius, which, despite its name, is a charming little restaurant that serves up delicious Caribbean-inspired dishes.

Cultural Experiences: Delving Into the Heart of Castries’ Culture

Castries is a hub of diverse cultures, traditions, and customs, and you can experience them firsthand through various local events. For instance, the Jounen Kweyol festival, held in October, celebrates the Creole traditions and culture with music, dance, and food. If you’re interested in history, the Folk Research Centre is a great place to learn about Afro-Caribbean heritage and traditions.

Local History: Discovering Fascinating Stories of Castries’ Past

From the colonial era to its transformation into a bustling port town, Castries has a rich history that’s worth exploring. One of the most captivating stories from Castries’ past is that of the Castries fire of 1948, which destroyed a considerable part of the town. You can visit the Castries Heritage Walk, which includes plaques and murals, to learn more about this event and other important landmarks.

Off-The-Beaten-Path: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

For a unique and unforgettable experience in Castries, consider exploring the Tet Paul Nature Trail, which provides breathtaking views of the Pitons, Saint Lucia’s famous volcanic peaks. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Marigot Bay, a beautiful natural harbor, where you can enjoy a range of water-based activities like swimming, sailing, and snorkeling.

Castries is a city filled with hidden gems and unique experiences – all you need to do is step off the beaten path and start exploring. By following this insider’s guide, you’re bound to discover a richer and more authentic side of this beautiful Caribbean city.