St. Lucia's busy capital and main port, Castries, is on the island's northwest coast. Most of its sights can be seen in half an hour, but it's fun to walk around—it's a real city and not an area designed specifically for travelers. The Castries Market near the port is filled with local crafts vendors.
The most engaging sights are around Derek Walcott Square (formerly Columbus Square). The samaan tree (rain tree) in the center of the square is said to be four centuries old.
You'll see several old Creole-style buildings and homes on the square's south border, Brazil Street. One of the Caribbean's largest churches, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, built in 1897, sits on the east side of the square. It's worth a peek inside to see the brilliant murals painted on the wood ceiling and walls. William Peter Boulevard, north of the square, is lined with boutiques, banks and shops.
Southeast of Castries is Morne Fortune (Hill of Good Fortune). The road up is a series of switchbacks punctuated with bright pink and purple bougainvillea. The view of the city and the sea is fabulous from atop Fort Charlotte. Built in 1764-84, the fort is worth a look—it's full of cannons, barracks, stables and tombstones.
Also nearby is the Roseau Sugar Factory, home of the Bounty Rum Distillery. About 20 minutes from Castries, the factory offers the Rhythm of Rum tour (reservations required), at which you'll learn the history of rum, complete with samples. Weekdays 9 am-3 pm. US$10 for tour and tastings. Phone 456-3148. http://www.stluciarums.com.
About 8 mi/13 km east of Castries on the Atlantic Coast is the Marquis Plantation, a working banana plantation. Get there by taking a small, cross-island road that branches off the main coastal highway near Choc Bay.
