Pigeon Island Saint Lucia
Pigeon Island Saint Lucia
Pigeon Island is an islet off the north western coast of the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia. Stretching over 40 acres, it was originally cut off from Saint Lucia but was artificially connected via a causeway constructed in 1972. Mud to form the causeway was excavated from Rodney Bay Marina.
Nature Reserve and Wildlife
Today, Pigeon Island Saint Lucia is a beautiful nature reserve which offers tourists the opportunity to enjoy guided walking trails and a historical legacy. This heritage is reflected in its historical landmarks, including an 18th century British Fort and Fort Rodney, located at another British military base. Both forts were used to observe French ships sailing from Martinique. Saint Lucia has a history with periods of both British and French control. Spectacular views across the north west coastline are afforded from a lookout point at the top of the fort. Pigeon Island Saint Lucia was named a national park in 1979 and is now run by the Saint Lucia National Trust. It has two secluded beaches which afford excellent opportunities for snorkelling. Tropical fish and corals nestle amongst calm and shallow aquamarine waters. Guided walks are available around the island to learn more about its history and wildlife. There are several species of native bird to delight birdwatchers.
Saint Lucia Jazz Festival
Pigeon Island is also the main venue for Saint Lucia Jazz, a jazz festival in May featuring a range of acclaimed artists. Saint Lucia Jazz has become an eagerly awaited event that visitors travel to attend the world over.
Pigeon Island Museum and Interpretative Centre
A nice feature of Pigeon Island is the Pigeon Island Museum and Interpretative Centre. This museum takes you back in time, charting the island’s history from its beginnings to the modern day. Located within a 19th century British mess building, it documents the activities of the first Carib Indian settlers and the island’s history through the battle for French and English control of Saint Lucia.
History of Pigeon Island Saint Lucia
The human history of Pigeon Island began with the Arawak people, a group of people now unknown in the Antilles and found only in South America. Arawak peoples were known to grow crops, with cassava a staple. About 1000 AD the Caribs arrived on Pigeon Island and drove out the Arawaks by war and extermination. The Caribs are believed to have arrived in the Caribbean region from the Orinoco River region in South America. They were skilled at boat building and expert sailors, as well as excelling in warfare. They were also traders and producers of silver. On Pigeon Island, the Caribs made their homes in caves on the islet, hunted for fish, animals and birds and gathered plants. The Caribs remained on Pigeon Island until 1778 when Admiral George Rodney drove them out. Admiral Rodney built the fort for which he is named and cut down all trees on the island. Further structures including barracks and a mess hall were added later.
Luxury Hotels near Pigeon Island
There are several luxury hotels close to Pigeon Island and excursions and guided tours in the region can be organised through these hotels. Smuggler’s Cove Saint Lucia is conveniently located on the north western tip of Saint Lucia and is ideal for families, couples and individual travellers.
Booking your Saint Lucia Holiday
Please call us on 0845 3 65 65 65 or complete the enquiry form below, or to the right, to enquire about your luxury escape to Saint Lucia.
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