Exploring the Jewel of the Caribbean in February : Traveling to Soufriere Saint Lucia
- Susanne Kremer
- Jan 11
- 7 min read
Updated: Mar 17
Discovering Paradise: A Journey to Saint Lucia, the Jewel of the Caribbean
Introduction: A February Escape to Paradise
As a travel photographer, I was on assignment last year in February to capture the essence of Soufriere, Saint Lucia’s most picturesque town. While the trip was filled with work, it almost felt like a vacation thanks to the island's breathtaking beauty and inviting atmosphere.
All Photos in this Article: Susanne Kremer
There’s something about the Caribbean that stirs the soul. The turquoise waters, the balmy breezes, and the laid-back rhythm of island life have a way of beckoning travelers from around the world.
For me, Saint Lucia—with its iconic Pitons, lush rainforests, and warm, welcoming culture—was the ultimate escape from the daily grind.
This tiny gem in the Caribbean, part of the West Indies, promised beauty, adventure, and a touch of indulgence. In February, as winter gripped most of the world, I boarded a flight from Miami and found myself in a tropical haven just three hours later.
A Warm Welcome to Saint Lucia
Located in the Eastern Caribbean, Saint Lucia is nestled between Martinique and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This lush island nation, shaped like a teardrop, boasts a fascinating history.
Once fiercely contested by the French and the British, Saint Lucia changed hands 14 times before finally becoming a British colony.
It gained independence in 1979, but the island’s French influence remains evident in its place names, Creole culture, and cuisine. English is the official language, but Creole, a mix of French and African dialects, is widely spoken by the locals.
As I disembarked from the plane, a breeze infused with the scent of the sea and tropical flowers welcomed me. I was greeted by our friendly driver from Green Fig Hotel.
Saint Lucia draws visitors globally, and during my visit, I met numerous British and German tourists, attracted by the island's breathtaking landscapes, lively culture, and friendly hospitality.
The weather was ideal: warm but not overwhelming, with a gentle breeze that made the February sun feel pleasant.
Packing for Saint Lucia was straightforward—shorts, T-shirts, a bikini, flip-flops, and a beach bag were all I needed (plus my Camera).
The warm water was perfect for swimming, and the island’s relaxed atmosphere meant casual attire was standard.
Soufriere: The Thrilling Heart of Saint Lucia
Welcome to Soufriere, a vibrant jewel on the southwestern coast of Saint Lucia that promises an exhilarating adventure at every turn! This stunning town, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, is the ultimate playground for those yearning to enjoy themselves in nature's splendor and the island's authentic spirit. Nestled beneath the majestic Pitons—those iconic volcanic spires that pierce the sky—Soufriere beckons adventurers and explorers alike to uncover its hidden treasures.
But be prepared, because navigating this enchanting island presents its own thrilling challenges! While taxis and hired drivers are the go-to options for exploring, the roads are an exhilarating test of your patience and fortitude. Picture this: narrow, winding paths that twist and turn like a roller coaster, filled with potholes that add an extra layer of excitement to your journey. Only the bravest and most skilled drivers dare to conquer these roads, especially after the sun sets. With limited lighting and unpredictable twists, nighttime driving transforms into a true adventure—one best avoided unless you’re ready for an adrenaline rush!
A Tale of Two Hotels: Green Fig Hotel and Jade Mountain Resort
During my escapade, I had the delightful chance to experience two wildly different hotels, each offering its own quirky take on Saint Lucia.
Green Fig Hotel: Tucked away on a hillside in Soufriere, the Green Fig Hotel was a charming and budget-friendly getaway. This boutique gem boasted jaw-dropping views of the Pitons and easy peasy access to local hotspots. The rooms were snug and well-equipped, and while it didn’t have a beach within stumbling distance, the warm hospitality and serene vibes more than made up for it. The on-site restaurant dished out fresh, locally inspired grub, and the pool area was the perfect spot to kick back and relax after a day of adventuring.
Jade Mountain Resort: On the flip side was Jade Mountain Resort, a luxurious hideaway that was so fancy it practically needed its own zip code. Hovering at an altitude of about 1,000 feet above sea level, the resort flaunted heart-stopping views of the Pitons and the Caribbean Sea. Despite being up in the clouds, the resort offered an easy stroll to its private beach, making it a breeze to enjoy the pristine sands while living the high life. This architectural wonder perched high above the coastline offered unbeatable views of the Pitons and the Caribbean Sea. Each suite—or “sanctuary,” as they fancily call them—was an open-air masterpiece complete with a private infinity pool, blending indoor and outdoor living with flair. The experience was nothing short of magical, from the gourmet nosh to the impeccable service. Staying at Jade Mountain for just one night was a once-in-a-lifetime splurge, and every moment felt like a dream come true.
Must-See Attractions in Soufriere
Soufriere is a jackpot of natural wonders and cultural goodies. Here are the highlights that made my trip unforgettable:
Fond Doux Chocolate Estate: This historic cacao plantation was like Willy Wonka’s factory, minus the Oompa Loompas. I got a sneak peek into the island’s chocolate-making magic, from picking cacao pods to devouring heavenly treats. The air was so chocolatey, I almost gained five pounds just breathing.
Hotel Chocolat Rabot Estate: At this famous estate, I got to play chocolatier for a day. Grinding cocoa nibs and crafting my own chocolate bar was like a delicious science experiment. Plus, the views of the Pitons were so stunning, they almost stole the show from my chocolate masterpiece.
Making my own Chocolat Bar at Hotel Chocolat Photographing this Tropical Landscape Sugar Beach: Known as the island’s supermodel of beaches, Sugar Beach was pure eye candy. Even though it’s part of a resort, it’s open to everyone. I spent the day lounging on its white sands and splashing in the clear water, feeling like a blissed-out beach bum.
A breathtaking view of the iconic Piton mountains in St. Lucia from Sugar Beach Resort , framed by vibrant palm trees under a clear blue sky. Dasheen Restaurant at Ladera Resort: Sitting high above the valley, Dasheen served up not just mouthwatering Creole dishes but also spectacular views of the Pitons. The food was as fresh as a daisy, and the desserts had me doing a happy dance with their perfect blend of sweetness and tropical zing.
Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens: Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Soufriere, these gardens were a sensory overload. Surrounded by lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and babbling brooks, I felt like I’d wandered into a fairy tale. The Diamond Waterfall was the crown jewel, sparkling in rainbow colors.
Tropical Rainforest Hiking: Saint Lucia’s rainforests are a playground for nature fans. On a guided hike, I ventured deep into the jungle, meeting exotic plants, chirping birds, and the soothing rustle of leaves. It was like stepping into a National Geographic documentary, minus the camera crew.
Soufriere Public Beach: For a chill vibe, the public beach in Soufriere was the ultimate relaxation station. Watching the sun set with a drink in hand, while island tunes played in the background, was a moment of sheer bliss.
Sunset over the tranquil beach of Soufriere Saint Lucia, with the iconic Gros Piton rising majestically against a pastel sky.
Lessons and Reflections
Visiting Saint Lucia was more than just exploring a wonderful destination; it was like stepping into a postcard that had too much caffeine. The island’s stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere left a lasting impression on me—kind of like that one friend who never leaves the party. Navigating the roads was a bit like playing a game of Mario Kart, minus the power-ups and with more potholes. But hey, nothing screams adventure like dodging a goat while trying to find your hotel!
The charm of Saint Lucia lies in its genuineness. It's a place where you can enjoy luxury one moment—sipping a cocktail with a tiny umbrella—and then suddenly find yourself knee-deep in mud trying to make chocolate like a local. The experiences I had there—from making chocolate (which I obviously ate half of) to watching sunsets over the Pitons—are memories I will treasure forever, right alongside my collection of questionable vacation selfies. Whether you’re in search of relaxation, adventure, or just a good spot to take a nap in a hammock, Saint Lucia is a destination that delivers… and sometimes even delivers you a surprise goat encounter!
Plot Your Next Great Escape
If you're plotting a Caribbean escape plan, let Saint Lucia steal your heart just like it did mine. From its people who are warmer than a freshly baked pie to landscapes that are more breathtaking than my Aunt Carla,s dance moves, this island is a paradise begging to be explored.
If you want to license my images, head over to www.susannekremer.com
Let the magic of Saint Lucia tickle your adventurous spirit.
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For those gigantic fine art prints, visit www.susannekremergallery.com.
If you’re on a quest for a specific image featured in this post, feel free to send me a smoke signal—or just email me at skremerphoto@gmail.com with a screenshot and size request, and I’ll conjure it up for you.
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