Soufrière

The colorful fishing community of Soufrière surrounds a magnificent bay, guarded by the majestic Pitons. This traditional St. Lucian hamlet is approximately an hour's drive south of the capital, Castries, and is a perfect place to base yourself for a couple of days exploring the surrounding sites.

Soufriere, which dates back to around 1745, has a fascinating history. Its most famous resident is Josephine, Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte's wife, who was born here in 1763. However, the town square was the location of the guillotine, which was constructed during the French Revolution in 1780, and many plantation owners and their families were beheaded here.

Hiking the beautiful Tet Paul Nature Trail, visiting Sulphur Springs Park, and wandering through the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens are some of the other things to see and do in Soufriere. You may relax on the beautiful palm-lined Anse Mamin beach if you want something a little more laid-back.

Location: West Coast of Saint Lucia