Beautiful hot Caribbean day, but me and my friends decided to leave the beaches behind and discover the real St.
Lucia, a country of thick rain forests, bubbling volcanoes and picturesque villages on this full day tour of the country's sights.
We drove through the capital Castries, stopping to visit the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and to see its stunning mural by local artist Dunstan St.
Omer.
Although this is commonly referred to as a cathedral, it is actually a minor basilica, and is the largest church in the Caribbean, coming in at a massive 61m long by 30m wide.
Next, we headed on to the Governor's Mansion, which is perched at the top of Mount Morne, and offers some of the most stunning vistas across the harbour.
Snapped the ideal photo and then headed off for a drive to the fishing village Anse La Raye, stopping to meet some of the local fishermen, and learning about life in the Caribbean.
We visited Soufriere, a small town that was once the country's capital, and is home to the world's only drive-in volcano.
We drove up close to the gurgling, steaming volcano, complete with its strong sulfuric aroma.
Next, we headed to the nearby Sulpher Springs Park to relax in the hot mineral waters, before working up an appetite with a walk through the lush Diamond Botanical Gardens.
After capturing that perfect photo of the garden's waterfalls, we enjoyed a traditional lunch at a local restaurant.
Took a moment to relax and soak up the scenery before hitting the road again, this time heading to the village of Choiseul, famous for its arts and crafts.
We wandered through the shops, perhaps picking up a memento of two.
Then we headed on to Laborie, listening out for the sound of conch shells being blown to signal the fishermen returning with their daily catch.
Wind along to picturesque Viex Fort, home to Baron Foods, the iconic sauce and condiment producer.
We definitely grabbed the chance to tour their factory and sample several of their authentic and distinctively Caribbean-style products.
End of the day, we hit the road for the final time, driving through the villages of Micoud and Dennery as we made our way back to Castries.