Page 974 - Visitor Guides

Maria Islands
Dramatically set off the southeast coast of Saint Lucia these islets remain uninhabited and
protected by the National Trust. Home to the world’s smallest snake, the Kouwes, and a ground
lizard, the Zandoli, whose male exhibits an impressive tail of brilliant blue. These two creatures
are found nowhere else on Earth.

Boat tours are available to Maria Major. Swim and snorkel off the pristine beaches and hike a trail
to the summit. Island tours are closed during leatherback turtle nesting season.

Mankote Mangrove
Located just outside Vieux Fort, Mankote Mangrove is the principle source of nutrients for the
island’s natural fish nursery in the nearby Savannes Bay. A viewing tower provides an excellent
vantage point for birdwatching while a diorama and brochures provide information on the
unique features of the Mangrove. Guided tours can be arranged through the Saint Lucia National
Vieux Fort - Must See Trust or the Caribbean Natural Resources Institute.
Moule a Chique Lighthouse

Vieux Fort is the second largest town and home to Hewanorra International Airport. Beautiful The road that leads up to Moule a Chique is narrow and steep, potholed and signless. The road
beaches border the town, adventurers can kite surf near the end of the Hewanorra runway, close leads to a viewing point beyond the lighthouse. The lighthouse itself has been closed to visitors.
to the Maria Islands. On a clear day you can see St. Vincent across the Caribbean sea. Restaurants Stunning views of Vieux Fort, the Caribbean Sea, The Atlantic Ocean and even St. Vincent can be
and shops dot the town. enjoyed from the breathtaking outlook.

Visit Moule-a-Chique when visiting the town. Drive up a steep, snaking road sometimes reaching
45+ degree angles, overlooking some dangerously close cliffs, to visit one of the most incredible
views on the island. From the overlook you can enjoy both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean
Sea. Maria Islands and St. Vincent populate the scene fantastically.

Jeep Tour
Guided Jeep tours offer an exhilarating off-road adventure. Safari across a tropical landscape,
through rainforests and over banana plantations. Ride in an open-air vehicle on whole or half day
adventures. Customized tours are often available.

La Rose and La Marguerita Flower Festivals
Some countries become divided by classes and castes, conversely Saint Lucian’s cultural traditions
have created two ‘Societies’, the Roses and the Marguerites - singing societies whose members
are dedicated to the praising of those respective flowers.

Each society conducts an annual festival, an elaborate and colorful event full of pomp
and pageantry. The ‘King’ and ‘Queen’ preside accompanied by their impressive
royal entourage of dukes, duchesses, princes, princesses, soldiers, policemen,
magistrates, doctors, nurses, the clerical hierarchy and supporters.

Each society has a patron saint, the grand fete is respectfully celebrated on that
saint’s feast day. The Roses’ feast for St. Rose of Lima observed on the 30th August;
the Marguerites feast for St. Margaret Mary Alacocque, is 17th October.

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