Reaching the peaks of St Lucia
The tropical island of St Lucia has become renowned for offering soft white beaches, crystal clear Caribbean waters and simmering sunshine.
Yes, St Lucia is the definition of a tropical utopia, but it isn’t just beaches and sunbathing to look forward to.
With a landscape that encompasses steep cliffs, towering mountains and jungle surroundings playing home to the magical wonders of nature; St Lucia is the perfect place to explore. And there’s no better place to start than its mountains.
Here’s a little look at what you can expect from the summits of St Lucia.
The Pitons
Dominating the South Western landscape of St Lucia, near the town of Soufriere, is two of the most famous peaks in not only the Caribbean, but the world. Rising majestically over the sensational landscape, covered in tropical greenery, and gazing out across the deep blues of the Caribbean Sea, the two volcanic spires are a World Heritage Site with a combined size of 7,190 acres between them.
The bigger of the two peaks, Gros Piton, stands at 2,619 feet tall, whereas the smaller of the two, Petit Piton, stands at an also impressive 2,491 feet.
When visiting this beautiful country, climbing the Pitons is bucket list territory and there are many tour operators in service offering this opportunity of a lifetime. Most opt to tour Gros Piton, which has an average two hour climb. The hike doesn’t require any special skills, and although it can be strenuous due to it mostly being uphill, the panoramic views across St Lucia, alongside a fantastic view of its sister Piton is worth the loss of breath.
Petit Piton is an equally exciting climb; however it is steeper than Gros Piton, making it a little more challenging to hike despite being smaller; so may be more suitable for experienced hikers. Although it’s not required to take a tour guide (as there isn’t a specific route) you’d be better suited to finding one to make the best and safest trip to the summit.
Taking part in this hike is best done earlier in the day (preferably in the morning), as it’s always warmer at mid-day, which could leave you a little sticky in the Caribbean heat.
Mount Gimie
Although the Pitons are the most famous summits in St Lucia, neither of them can actually lay claim to being the highest peak on the utopian island. This distinction belongs to Mount Gimie.
Listed as the country’s high point, and featuring on the World Country High Points Peak list, the mountain is located near Anse La Raye, towering over the landscape at a gargantuan 3,117 feet tall. With its jungle nature, the mountain is shrouded in the most beautiful, lush tropical fauna and flora, just waiting to be explored.
There are a limited number of tour operators providing guided tours of the spectacular mountain. You’ll encounter everything from waterfalls and unique plantations to local, fascinating wildlife and unparalleled panoramic views.
So if you want an adventure with a difference when visiting St Lucia, then go and explore the Mount Gimie trail; you won’t be disappointed.
Other Mountains to check out
Although the Pitons are the most famous mountains here, and Mount Gimie is well known throughout the country; they aren’t the only summits you should consider. There are a number of other great peaks you can enquire about when visiting this tropical paradise, which are all equally as impressive.
Throughout St Lucia you’ll find spectacles including Mount Tabac, Mount Houelmon, Piton Canaries, Mount Morton, Piton Saint Esprit and Malmaison. Located throughout the island, it doesn’t matter where you’re staying as there’ll probably be a peak nearby. All featuring the tropical wonders that St Lucia’s become known for, from wondrous wildlife to breath-taking rolling landscapes.
Just enquire with a tour operator about exploring lesser known peaks – they are some of the highest points on the island, just waiting to be visited.