Saint Lucia route: Gros Piton to Soufriere and Vieux Fort
Explore Saint Lucia's most iconic natural landmarks on this 214 km route through the Caribbean. Visit the UNESCO-listed Gros Piton and Tet Paul Nature Trail for panoramic views, then venture to Soufriere's colorful town center, volcanic terrain, and the botanical gardens at Piton Falls. The route also includes Anse Chastanet, Vieux Fort, Balenbouche Estate, and Millet Bird Sanctuary.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Soufriere
- End
- Millet Bird Sanctuary
- Stops
- 8
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Soufriere — One of the most popular towns on the island with bars, cafes, shops, colorful houses, and a beach
- Tet Paul Nature Trail — Viewing platform with incredible views of the Pitons
- Gros Piton Hike — One of the most challenging trails on the island with abundant local wildlife and stunning summit views
- Piton Falls — A hot spring with waterfall and swimming area in the shadow of the Pitons
- Anse Chastanet — The best spot on the island for snorkeling
- Vieux Fort — Historical fort overlooking the south of the island towards St. Vincent, with views of Maria Islands nature reserve
- Balenbouche Estate — A heritage site with an old sugar cane processing factory used from the late 1700s until around the 1930s
- Millet Bird Sanctuary — Nature trail where you can search for the local endemic parrot with guide Ken
Useful for your trip
- Where to stay
- Sanfi Gardens offers incredible views of the Pitons and nearby access to Soufriere town.
- Food
- Alo Vegan Cafe in Soufriere serves plant-based food with prices suited for locals. Building has historical significance as it rests on the old town hall.
- Tip
- Diamond Falls & Botanical Gardens charges a small entrance fee. You can hire a private guide or explore at your own leisure. Mineral baths available on site.
- Tip
- The drive-in volcano offers combination tickets to see both volcanic activity and mud baths, or you can purchase separate tickets for each activity.
- Tip
- Gros Piton hike requires a guide and costs around $50 US per person. Guides are knowledgeable about local forests. The hike has four quadrants with the last being hardest.
- Timing
- Tet Paul Nature Trail takes around 10-15 minutes to complete. Can be done with or without a guide; waiver required if hiking without a guide.
- Tip
- Anse Chastanet is described as the best spot on the island to go snorkeling.
- Tip
- Contact Ken at Millet Bird Sanctuary for guided tours to search for the local endemic parrot: +1 (758) 519-7266
- Tip
- Pigeon Island is a former fortified island transformed into a historical park with ruins of fortifications and views of Saint Lucia.
- Tip
- Multiple viewpoints around the island allow you to safely stop on the side of the road and enjoy panoramic views.
- Avoid
- Be aware that the drive-in volcano has a strong smell due to sulfur emissions.
Video on this route
The World's Most Beautiful Island (Saint Lucia)