Latitude 13° 51′ N / Longitude 61° 03′ W
Soufriere, in the south, is a good home base when touring the most interesting geological features on the island. The first major settlement and original capital of St Lucia, Soufriere possesses a topography and ecology of stunning beauty. For divers, sailors and hikers alike this is what the The Caribbean is all about. Soufrière offers dramatic backdrops for visiting boats.
While Soufrière itself is an official port of entry, anchorages can also be found at Anse Chastanet, just north of Soufrière Bay, and off the Hummingbird Beach Resort north of Soufrière town. The Soufrière Marine Management Area issues Coral Conservation Permits to all vessels anchoring within the management area. The cost of the permit depends on vessel size and length of stay.
The jewels in her crown are the breathtaking twin peaks, Gros Piton and Pitit Piton, soaring thousands of feet above Soufriere. The Pitons are Saint Lucia’s most famous land mark and is now a World Heritage Site. Soufriere also boasts the world’s only drive in volcano where getting close to the action is as easy as taking a dip in her hot sulfur baths.
The town was founded in about 1745 with its most prominent features being the town square, the church on the square and the many buildings with filigreed balconies and tin roofs.
The town square was the site of the guillotine erected during the French Revolution in 1780. Many plantation owners and their families were executed here.
The wharf, a block away from the town square, is the stopping point of several sightseeing cruises.
The town’s main claim to fame is that Josephine, who became the wife of Emperor Napoleon Boneparte in 1796, was born in Soufrière in 1763.
For more information on Soufriere, starting with its history.
Soufriere Attractions
Diamond Waterfalls & Botanical Gardens
Breathtaking natural flora meets medicinal mineral baths leading to a spectacular waterfall. Tropical flowers, nature trails, and a small shop offering ice cream and other refreshments are all incorporated in one tour. The grounds have been well groomed by the Devaux family for generations.
Several spectacular diving sites populate the waters off Saint Lucia. From easy to challenging, from day trips to half days, everyone can take a dip and enjoy the Caribbean. Any number of drift dives, ship wrecks, and coral reefs are on hand to explore.
Helicopter Rides
Experience Saint Lucia from the frigate birds’ view. Tours depart from Castries and Soufriere, as well as a few other ports. North and south island aerial tours are available. Observe cliffs, mountains, and sun-kissed coastlines while relishing (and learning from) the lively commentary of the knowledgeable and friendly local pilots.
Jeep Tour
Guided Jeep tours offer an exhilarating off-road adventure. Safari across a tropical landscape, through rainforests and over banana plantations. Ride in an open-air vehicle on whole or half day adventures. Customized tours are often available.
The Pitons
Gros Piton and Petit Piton, known collectively as The Pitons, are depicted as twin peaks in most mass produced photos. Actually the peaks are about two miles apart, rising up from the sea. These volcanic plugs are now a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and have a home on the label of the national beer, appropriately named Piton.
Both are considered difficult climbs, but guides are available. Divers can explore them as underwater cliffs. Most visitors simply enjoy them for their scenic beauty.
Sulphur Springs Park and the “Drive-in” Volcano
The caldera, created by a major volcanic explosion, offers close up views of bubbling sulfur pits and heat pools. Once, tours included a climb into the pits for the full experience, including dropping raw eggs into the pools and watching them boil. A guide fell through the soft substrate of the crust causing 2nd and 3rd degree burns, he survived and the pools can be enjoyed from a safer distance.
Toraille Waterfall & Gardens
Near Soufriere, just off the scenic main road, a breathtaking 50 feet waterfall gushes over a cliff and cascades into a pool centered in a charming garden. Quaint bridges along a nature trail with lush greens and dazzling tropical colors lead you through the tropical paradise. Bathe near the invigorating waterfall, or enjoy a pounding back and shoulder massage on days when the water flow is not too strong.
