NATURE’S PARADISE FOUND IN ST. LUCIA: The Landings Resort & Spa
St. Lucia is considered to be one of the most romantic islands in the Caribbean. The breathtaking scenery has been largely undeveloped and left as nature intended, creating the ideal balance between lush peaks and valleys and a dramatic coastline. Explore the best of what the island has to offer with a stay at the luxurious Landings Resort and Spa by Elegant Hotels.
What to See by Land or Sea
The most iconic vista of St. Lucia is the Grand and Petit Pitons, a pair of dramatically tapered mountains located on the west coast that can be viewed by sea or land, offering equally as beautiful yet different vantage points. One of the most luxurious ways to experience the island and beautiful coastline is by yacht. From the Landings Resort marina, board a yacht in Rodney Bay and embark on an island adventure. Sail to the capital city of Castries towards the charming and historical French town of Soufriere. Moor off Anse Chastanet, which offers a priceless view of the Pitons while you snorkel in the warm turquoise waters or lay out on a secluded beach.
By land, there are many gems to explore as you drive on windy roads through lush vegetation to explore the wonders of nature. For a jungle adventure, stop by the Morne Coubaril Estate to zipline through a former eighteenth century historical sugar cane and coconut plantation. Soar above streams and gorges under a lush canopy of banyan, coconut, plum, and mango trees with views over the town of Soufriere and the Petit Piton. After the adrenaline rush, enjoy an authentic Creole lunch in one of the historic halls.
Further down the road is the famous Sulphur Springs, which originated from a volcano that erupted in 1700. Considered to be nature's spa, A-List celebrities, locals and tourists visit the springs to reap the detoxifying benefits of the mud baths, which are purported to make you look 12 years younger. The natural minerals from the earth help to tighten skin, heal sun burns, and relieve eczema, arthritis, sore joints and more. After the mud bath, wash off under a waterfall in a refreshing natural rainforest bath.
For the best panoramic views of the Pitons and St. Lucia, visit the Tet Paul Nature Trail. This 45-minute guided hike will take you past exotic horticulture, an organic farm, and "The Stairway to Heaven." From the top, you can see the neighboring islands of Martinique and Saint Vincent, the majestic Pitons, and the gorgeous Southern side of St. Lucia.
Taste the flavors of St. Lucia in a lovely waterfront alfresco setting at Tapas on the Bay in Rodney Bay. Their internationally-driven menu includes small dishes with flavors from around the world that use local ingredients and fresh seafood to create a medley of crowd-pleasing favorites. Perfect for a group or date night, be sure to try their refreshing sangria to top it off.
Where to Stay
The Landings Resort and Spa by Elegant Hotels is located on one of the most celebrated beaches in St. Lucia. Luxury and timeless elegance blend seamlessly throughout the resort, which is comprised of spacious villa suites that are perfect for groups, multi-generational travel, girlfriend getaways, or honeymooners looking for extra privacy with all the comforts of home. The laid-back style along with the luxurious amenities and surroundings provide a perfect backdrop to relax and recharge while creating your own lasting memories.
Villas range from one to three bedrooms and are outfitted with a breezy island chic decor and furnishings with a private balcony, full granite kitchens, marble bathrooms, living and dining areas, flat screen TVs and a washer/dryer. Ground floor villas also have large lanais with a private outdoor plunge pool. Depending on your preference, choose from an oceanfront view, marina view or beachfront view, which all offer beautiful vistas to wake up to.
Savor the delicious flavors of the Caribbean at one of their dining establishments. For casual indoor and outdoor dining with a view of Rodney Bay and the Marina, Calaloo Beach Bar and Grill showcases St. Lucia's farm-to-table specialties and is a beautiful setting to begin your morning with their delicious breakfast buffet. At night, you can also book a private candlelight dinner on the beach with selections from their dinner menu, which has a focus on locally caught seafood.
For fine dining, the Palms is a not-to-be-missed experience. Their "East Meets West" fusion menu features flavors from the East that adds an international flair to locally-sourced meats and seafood that is served in a spectacular setting.
Pamper yourself while you melt away the stress of the outside world in their luxuriously appointed 7,000 square foot spa. Offering a full suite of restorative services, de-tress pre or post treatment in their serene relaxation room and terrace. For the ultimate romantic package, book a room with a private terrace featuring a hydrotherapy tub.
How to Get There
The easiest way to travel to St. Lucia from NYC is on JetBlue Airways, which is the only airline that offers daily non-stop service from JFK Airport. In just 4.5 hours, you can escape the cold winters of the northeast and be whisked away to paradise with the balmy ocean breeze at your beck and call.
