This Serene St. Lucia Town Boasts Sulfur Springs, Lush Mountains, and One of the World’s Top Restaurants

In the beautiful island of St. Lucia, Soufrière is renowned for its majestic Gros Piton and Petit Piton, the iconic dormant volcanoes that tower above the crystal-clear Caribbean waters — best appreciated from the airy upper balcony of the renowned Orlando's restaurant. However, this west-coast town offers much more than just stunning views.

Activities in Soufrière

Hiking the 2,619-foot Gros Piton — a four-hour trek rewarded with stunning vistas of neighboring Martinique and St. Vincent — is a popular activity, but it’s not the only way to experience the incredible views of St. Lucia. For those seeking a more relaxed approach, breathtaking views of the Pitons can be found from nearly any location in Soufrière or by visiting the Castries region, where the Rainforest Adventures aerial tram smoothly transports riders through the canopy in open-air gondolas, surrounded by delicate ferns, ficus trees, and cheerful bananaquits.

Back on solid ground, consider visiting Soufrière’s second-most popular attraction: the "drive-in volcano." This is actually a seven-mile-wide caldera, the remnant of a volcanic crater that last erupted in 1766 — and scientists warn it could erupt again. While you can no longer drive or walk onto its eerie lunar landscape, guided tours will take you close enough to experience the plumes of steam rising ominously from the chalky rocks. (The distinctive "rotten-egg" sulfur odor accompanying the steam reminds you that you’re quite near.) Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit and towel to enjoy the nearby Sulphur Springs, where you can soak in the reputedly therapeutic mud pits.

Dining Options in Soufrière

St. Lucia's cuisine is truly remarkable. A local favorite, Orlando’s is a celebrated Creole restaurant and bar situated in downtown Soufrière. Under the guidance of Chef Orlando Satchell, the menu showcases local flavors and ingredients, featuring dishes like green banana soup, mahi-mahi, coconut jerk lobster, yellowfin tuna, and Creole bread. Make sure to visit repeatedly to fully experience the essence of Soufrière and Chef Orlando’s meticulously crafted Caribbean fare. 

Shopping in Soufrière

Nestled halfway between downtown and Sulphur Springs is Zaka Art Café, where Simon Gajadhar, affectionately known as Zaka, offers vibrant wooden masks and totems crafted from recycled telephone poles. Be sure to grab a few — selecting just one is nearly impossible — along with a pound of his locally grown coffee.

Accommodation Options in Soufrière

A fantastic accommodation option is Ladera, featuring 37 suites with three walls — some equipped with their own plunge pools — allowing guests to connect with the sea and sky. The on-site bar is an ideal spot to enjoy a Dasheen Fantasy (a delightful blend of pineapple, rum, and dark orange) while taking in the breathtaking sunset over the Caribbean, perfectly framed by the iconic Pitons.