Day 1 - UK to St Lucia
Today, you fly to St Lucia. This tropical paradise of white-sand beaches backed by the sparkling Caribbean Sea is home to the famous towering twin volcanoes, the Pitons, which loom over the island's west coast. On arrival, transfer to your hotel in Rodney Bay Village, which is your base for the next seven nights. Get to know your your travelling companions over a welcome drink and dinner this evening. D
Day 2 - St Lucia tour
Join your Holiday Director for an included tour of St Lucia today, which begins with a drive through rural countryside before enjoying a short walk through the Lushan Country heritage site, discovering the various trees, plants and some species of birds. In the Creole house see how local dishes are made with an opportunity for a tasting. The drive on to the distillery passes through the countryside during which your guide provides an insight to the history and culture of the different communities. The distillery tour at St. Lucia Distillers is more than a lesson in how rum is made, you gain an insight into the role it played in the community as well as an opportunity to visit the carnival room for your own mini carnival experience. The culmination of the distillery visit is the tasting bar, where you can put your tasting skills to the test on these internationally award-winning rums. Last but not least is a stop at Marigot Bay with time to just sit and enjoy a drink, while soaking up the atmosphere. B
Day 3 - Rodney Bay - at leisure
Discover more of the Rodney Bay area at your own pace today or spend your time relaxing in the Caribbean sun.
Alternatively, join our half-day optional excursion to St Lucia's capital Castries, which will introduce you to its hidden gems. We'll visit the local market, where you can try out your bartering skills as you shop for souvenirs, and we'll also see the process of silk-screening and watch a sculptor at work. There's the chance to enjoy some duty-free shopping before we head back to the hotel. B
Day 4 - Rodney Bay - at leisure
Today you could join our optional dolphin and whale-watching excursion. During this exciting boat trip, you can also look out for many other types of incredible marine life that can be seen in the waters surrounding St Lucia. Alternatively, spend today relaxing on the beach or enjoying the facilities at your hotel, which include two outdoor pools and a spa. Later, you could choose to join our optional sunset catamaran cruise. On this two-hour trip, you'll be served canapés, 'champagne' and a rum punch or two, while listening to the sounds of a steel band and taking in the lovely views. B
Day 5 - Land and sea safari
Today we include a thrilling land and sea safari which takes us down the west coast to Soufriere. As we travel in an open-air Jeep we'll enjoy fascinating detours through small villages along the outskirts of the rainforest. If you're feeling thirsty along the way, don't worry, the vehicle will be well stocked with soft drinks and beer. We'll visit the Sulphur Springs and Diamond Botanical Gardens and Waterfalls, before heading to a working cocoa plantation for lunch. Experience a selection of local dishes including a variety of rice dishes, salads and steamed vegetables, and try their traditional chicken dish and spicy creole fish. You will also learn about plantation life on the island and how the cocoa beans are traditionally dried and polished.
Our return journey is made by boat, so top up your tan or relax in the shade and admire the gorgeous views of the Caribbean coast. There's a stop for snorkelling, and the boat will navigate Marigot Bay, which you may recognise as the setting for many films, including Dr Dolittle. B,L
Day 6 - Rodney Bay - at leisure
Why not spend today relaxing on the beach or enjoying the facilities at your hotel, which include two outdoor pools and a spa. B
Day 7 - Rodney Bay - at leisure
Reduit Beach, just along from Rodney Bay, where the Bay Gardens Resort sister hotel is located is simply stunning with gently shelving, clear waters and soft sand. Why not head here for a day at leisure. The hotel's free shuttle bus operates hourly from 9:30 and only takes ten minutes. This evening gather with your travelling companions for an included farewell dinner. B,D
Days 8 - 9 St Lucia to UK
On day 8 we'll transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK, arriving on day 9. B