ESSENTIALS

Getting there & around

British Airways flies nonstop from Gatwick and Heathrow to St Lucia’s Hewanorra International Airport (40 miles south of the island’s capital, Castries). Virgin Atlantic also operates flights from Heathrow. ba.com virginatlantic.com

Average flight time: 8h40m.

It’s easiest to get around St Lucia by car. Car hire is available from the airport; you’ll need a temporary permit, which can be arranged by the rental company. Taxis can be booked through your hotel or picked up at ranks in towns. Inexpensive private minibuses also travel between towns and villages.

When to go

High season is November until end of March, when it’s dry and sunny at around 28-30C. June to October sees a lot of rain and the chance of hurricanes. The shoulder season of April to June is a good time to visit as the weather is warm, 25-30C, and prices are cheaper.

Places mentioned

Sulphur Springs St Lucia. sulphurspringsstlucia.com

Gros Piton Nature Trail. grospiton.com Jus’ Sail. jussail.com

The Naked Fisherman. nakedfishermanstlucia.com

Where to stay

Ladera Resort. Suites from £550. ladera.com

Cap Maison Resort & Spa. From £387, half-board. capmaison.com

How to do it

offers a Peak to Beach package, featuring three nights in a luxury suite at Ladera Resort, four nights in a sea-facing suite at Cap Maison Resort & Spa, a visit to Sulphur Springs, sunset cruise, Gros Piton hike, transfers and international flights from £5,895 per person.

‘Eat like a local’ experiences can be arranged through Cap Maison or by messaging Stacey Martin via Facebook. elegantresorts.co.uk