All Inclusive Vacation Destination on St. Lucia
Les Pitons, Twin Dormant Volcanoes, Are Symbols of Caribbean Island
Jul 6, 2009
St. Lucia is one of the few places in the world where it is possible to drive into and through an active volcano. The geological term is a caldera or collapsed crater, but the fragrance of bubbling sulfur that fills the air in the caldera, along with steam escaping form the earth at 380 degrees leaves no doubt that this is an island still greatly influenced by volcanic action.
Les Pitons Volcanoes
A proud symbol of St. Lucia is Les Pitons, twin dormant volcanoes that rise 2000 feet directly from the sea. The local brewery and other landmarks are named for the Pitons.
The Pitons (pronounced pee-tone) are on the south end of St. Lucia, the least developed and more lush end of the island. Near here is the Diamond Botanical Gardens and Mineral Baths, a tranquil botanical garden where visitors stroll through six acres filled with calabash trees, more than100 varieties of ferns, and the gentle shades of African tulips and Indian lilac.
It’s well worth the $5 admission to simply wander the trail in this natural setting, but don’t hesitate to invest another $4 to bathe in the natural hot springs here. It’s considered a cure for joint pain, sinus troubles and the stress and anxiety that North Americans often bring with them on their vacation.
All Inclusive Resort on St. Lucia
All of this is on the southern end of the island in the midst of tiny fishing villages where boat makers still build dug-outs from the gum and cedar trees of the rain forest.
The primary resort on the south end is Coconut Bay, an all-inclusive vacation destination that covers 85 acres and two distinct settings. One provides numerous activities and accommodations for those traveling with children. The kids club is a well-designed, spacious area that includes its own spray ground and play ground.
But for honeymooners and adults, the quiet side includes a topless pool, a wedding gazebo and the Kai Mer Spa. This is where to go for a volcanic mud body scrub, beachfront pedicures and massages that leave you smelling like lavender and coconut and feeling like putty.
The Coconut Bay Resort has three restaurants on property serving Asian, Italian and American cuisine. However, during your stay, make arrangements through the concierge desk for an evening out at Aunt Debbie’s Restaurant.
A former lounge singer who specializes in Barbara Streisand and Bette Midler tunes, Aunt Debbie began selling local cuisine on tables set up under a calabash tree after attending culinary school in London.
Choose an entrée of chicken Parmesan or curried salmon, which is accompanied by local dishes such as bread fruit balls, dashene and mashed pumpkin. The highlight of your evening is when Debbie visits your table, bringing along laughter, hugs and a sense of joi de vivre that reflects the passion all St. Lucians have for their island and the travelers who share their home, for at least a few days.
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