Coast/Beach
The famous Reduit Beach is pure paradise, soft golden sand facing West into the calm, warm Caribbean Sea usually offering its gentle sea breeze. The sunsets are stunning and the water is warm all year round. The island is a treasure trove of beautiful and unspoilt beaches and coves. There are also lots to do if you’re the adventurous type. You can explore on foot, by mountain bike, or even on horseback. Acitivities range from windsurfing, sailing, snorkelling, helicopter rides etc.
Golf
3 great clubs - the St Lucia and Sandals courses are 15 mins away. Jalousie is an hour away. St. Lucia Golf Resort and Country Club. This course accommodates players of all skill levels, from novice to professional all within a tropical landscape that even non-golfers can appreciate. The St Lucia Golf Open, amateur tournament, is held here in March. Sandals Regency Golf Resort and Spa at La Toc. Sandals St. Lucia Golf Resort and Spa is the most glamorous all-inclusive ever. Rarely will you enjoy a resort as sophisticated and elegant because no detail has been spared to bring you luxury in the grandest style. Considered the emerald of the Caribbean, this impressive resort is situated on 155 lush acres fronting a half-mile of crescent-shaped, white-sand beach. Jalousie Hilton Resort and Spa. The Jalousie Hilton’s Executive par three golf course is unique to the Caribbean. Ideally located in a tropical forest, near the Petit Piton, with views of Jalousie Bay and the Gros Piton Mounta.
Special interest holidays
The island is 238 sq. miles (616 sq. km), 27 miles long, 14 miles wide with a combination of high mountains, forests, low lying lands and beaches. A central mountain range runs the length of the island, with peaks ranging between 1000 and 3145 feet. Forests dominate the mountains, while jasmine, scarlet chenille and wild orchids provide splashes of colour to the lush green slopes. The two towering volcanic cones on the southwest coast, Gros Piton (797m) and Petit Piton (750m) are one of the Caribbean’s most famous landmarks. The volcanic origin of the island provides visitors with an opportunity to visit a “drive-in volcano” and take a dip in the reputedly therapeutic Sulphur springs.
Some key events: Feb - Independence Day. May - St Lucia Jazz Festival - 05-13 May '08. Jun - St Lucia Golf Open. Jul - Carnival. Sep - St Lucia Bill Fishing Tournament. Nov - Arrival of ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers), the world's largest transatlantic rally for cruisers. Dec - Festival of Lig.
Travel
There are 2 airports. The smaller domestic airport is about 10 mins by car. The international airport is in the south of the island and about 1 hour 30 mins by car, the drive is quiet, scenic and provides a breathtaking introduction to the island. Time difference, GMT -4 hours.
Distances
The villa is in the north on the Cap Estate looking down on the St Lucia golf club and 5 minutes by car. The shops and supermarket, bars and restaurants are a 15 minutes drive. Rodney Bay has a wide choice of bars and restaurants with live music and plenty going on. The capital, Castries is about 35 minutes by car/taxi depending on traffic.
Further details
The yacht club is at the harbour in Rodney bay which has a cluster of shops, cafes, bars and a bank (with ATM). It is easy to hire a quality car - a temporary driving licence is obtained from the police station.