Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Stroll through the Diamond Botanical Gardens and Falls. These lovely gardens were originally commissioned by King Louis XVI when he discovered the therapeutic values of the mineral-rich waters during French rule of the island in the 1780’s. The Garden and Falls are located in the charming town of Soufriere, nestled between the Piton Mountains. Upon entering the main gate, take a leisurely stroll through the impeccable gardens of tropical plants. Nestled among the lush foliage is a resting area with a snack shop, restroom and changing room. The mineral baths adjoin this area and are incredibly relaxing and healthful. A little further down the path you will come to the awesome Diamond Falls. Unfortunately, you are not allowed to bathe in these falls, but they present a nice photo opportunity.
Hike through the fantastic lush green trails to Toraille Falls and you can’t help but be amazed at the dazzling array of tropical colors along the path. Once you reach the incredible 50 foot waterfall, you will find changing rooms and picnic tables nearby for your convenience. Toraille is near Soufriere on the way to the village of Fond St Jacques.Contact Hilary Charlemagne for more information at 459-7473. You may want to request a guide.
Grab a wooden walking stick at the gate of Piton Falls, pay a small admission and hike down a garden path to bathe in a warm mineral pool fueled by a lovely gushing waterfall. There are three pools here: one fed by the waterfall at a nice warm temperature; another adjoining section which is a cooler, refreshing temperature; and a third which is a very warm pool, a natural hot tub. The waterfall descends from only 30 or 40 feet into the first pool and the depth of the water is about waist high so it is a perfect spot to refresh from a day of hiking or touring the island. Hikers descending the nearby Petit Piton often use this as a therapeutic rest stop. Piton Falls is a very pretty spot just off the road to Jalousie Hilton Hotel, near Soufriere.
Contact the Forestry Department at 758-450-2231 for more information and guides to some of the other waterfalls in the Soufriere region including Coubaril, Spike and New Jerusalem which are a little more difficult to reach.
Drive southeast from Soufriere, to Choiseul and the Balenbouche Estate. Saltibus Falls, about 20 minutes from the Balenbouche Estate, is on a trail along the River Doree named the Mount Grand Magasin Historic and Nature Trail. For guides and information, contact the Saltibus Tour Guide Association at 758-455-1307 or 455-1239. Notice how the River Doree and the ocean come together as one.
Spend the day at Latille Waterfall, located on the eastern coast of the island and surrounded by a beautiful herb and flower garden pathway which leads to the falls and swimming hole. This is a magical place to spend the day, be sure to bring snacks and beverages and relax in this natural little water park. This waterfall is one of the most accessible making it a delightful place for families to relax and picnic.