While many say that St. Lucia is as pretty to look at as any of the West Indian islands, it would be more accurate to say that the island offers more variety to look at. Among all the islands in the area, it perhaps stands as the one with the most for you to see. If you are going to truly experience St. Lucia, then you will want to make a stop in Soufrier.

The oldest settlement on the island of St. Lucia, Soufriere spent part of the 18th century as the French Capital. Its value was in its position along the deep water port. The town is beautiful to experience and offers lively markets to experience and see. You may also try some of the native bananas and other fruit that offer flavors you just can't experience in a US supermarket.

The main landmarks of the island, through, are its two volcanoes, Petit Piton and Gros Piton. If you are into hiking and climbing, it should be noted that you attempt only to climb Gros Piton. If you do choose to do that, though, you will need permission from the Forest and Lands Department as well as a guide. If you are not ready to scale a volcano, it is okay, there are other options.

Mount Sourfriere is another volcano that is known as the drive-in volcano. It gets its name honestly as it is a volcano that you can literally drive your car into it. Experience millions of years of rock and carter that creates a mood landing feel for you. Get out of your car and you can enjoy walking around sulfur springs and pools heated to the point of creating hissing steam. For the small entrance fee, you will be able to explore this drive-in wonder and also secure the services of a guide, who can point out things like the blackened waters. They are just a few such waters in the entire Caribbean.

If driving through volcanoes isn't enough on your trip to Sourfriere, then try the Diamond Mineral Baths. Created from spring induced waterfalls, the waters of the baths turn colors several times a day as mineral content changes. From yellow to black to green and gray, the baths supposedly offer recuperative effects. You can try them out for yourself after a small entrance fee. Perhaps these are the perfect wrap up to a day of volcano driving and hiking.

A visit to St. Lucia may certainly be all about the sun and surf. However, getting away from the beaches to enjoy the picturesque parts of the island is something that you owe yourself. By traveling to Soufriere, you will be able to get a taste for the culture of the island. While you are there you will be able to also enjoy the geological history of the island through the exploration of real volcanoes. Wrap up your day and enjoy the warm mineral baths of the Diamond Mineral Baths stop. The beaches will still be there tomorrow.