Just north of Gros Islet is Pigeon Island National Park. A strategic observation point with views of neighboring Martinique, the spot was used by the British to keep an eye on the French.
They constructed Fort Rodney there in the late 1700s. Its ruins, set amid lush vegetation, can be seen on a self-guided walking tour. The National Trust operates the Pigeon Island Interpretation Centre in what used to be an officers' mess building. Hands-on displays and videos about the island's history are included.
After seeing the fort, spend time on the nearby white-sand beach—it's one of the loveliest on the island. St. Lucians flock there on weekends (and often play radios loudly as they relax on the sand). The park is also the main site of St. Lucia's annual jazz festival each May.
The national park is run by the St. Lucia National Trust. Phone 758-452-5005. https://slunatrust.org/sites/pigeon-island-national-landmark.
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