PIGEON ISLAND NATIONAL PARK

Connected to the mainland by a thin strip of land, the Pigeon Island peninsula extends over 18 hectares. The site is managed by the Saint-Lucia National Trust, an organization responsible for the conservation, maintenance and protection of the island's natural and historical sites. The first European settlers were French pirates in the ^16th century, looking for Spanish ships to plunder. The area is popular for weddings (couples in wedding outfits can be seen posing) and for its jazz festival in May. A 20-minute walk around the mountain takes you to the top. Here, strategic vantage points on the two former cannon batteries offer breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea: you can even see the coast of Martinique! Along the way, you'll discover small snack bars (one of which is called Jambe de Bois, in reference to the first pirate to settle on the site), the remains of bunkers and stone barracks, and a small on-site military museum. Two shaded beaches with crystal-clear waters are among the most beautiful on the island. Tip: bring your own picnic. It's possible to rent a deckchair and spend the day here, away from the hustle and bustle of Rodney Bay. On the way out of the park, you'll find a few small straw huts where you can enjoy a drink. Superb at sunset!