Dominica
This island has a volcanic landscape that is combined with rainforest areas. The world’s second largest bubbling hot water lake (Boiling Lake) is located here, as are the spectacular twin waterfalls, Trafalgar Falls. For a true back-to-nature vacation you should spend at least some of your vacation in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park.
Grenada
Also known as the “Spice Island”, Grenada is a major exporter of nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and cloves. Apart from the glorious beaches, you’ll find hiking trails in the Grand Etang National Park, a water-filled volcano crater, and don’t forget swimming at the base of the breathtaking 15 metre high Annandale Falls. Make sure you find time to explore St George, the capital, which has been built up around a volcanic crater.
Guadeloupe
On this butterfly shaped island, you’ll find vast natural beauty despite the areas frequented by the Club Med resorts (such as Caravelle Beach), the beaches of St Ann or Pointe de la Grande Vigie, for example. Visit the place where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean with stunning rock formations at Pointes des Chateaux. Or on butterfly’s western wing, take time to explore the natural beauty of the Basse-Terre mountains. Not only will you find a glorious array of flora and fauna, but also the underwater glory of the Reserve Cousteau located around the Ilets Pigeon.
Martinique
On the mountainous island of Martinique garden lovers should visit the Jardins de Balata botanical gardens. In this tropical paradise you’ll find a huge array of unusual plants and flowers. Mount Pelée, the volcano that erupted in 1902, can been seen from St. Pierre. Although what remains of the former thriving society is little more than a shadow of the town that was destroyed by the volcano, the ruins and Musee Vulcanologique document the power of volcanic devastation. Experienced climbers will enjoy the challenge offered by the peak of Le Morne Rouge, whereas hikers will enjoy walking along the River Falaise with its canyons and waterfalls.
St Lucia
The Pitons, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, are the most famous natural landmarks of St Lucia, but despite their impressiveness, there’s more for the nature lover to explore on this island than their woodland beauty. For example, there’s also the Sulphur Springs outside of Soufrière. Close to this are the Diamond Botanical Gardens where hot water gushes out of the ground into waiting basins. If you like a bit of adventure then a guided hike through the rainforest, such as the 6 mile long Central Rainforest Walk, might be a perfect choice of activity. Alternatively, at the Fregate Islands Natural Reserve you can watch the mighty frigate birds in flight, or take a boat trip to the Maria Islands Nature Reserve where bird watchers will find a feast of exotic birds to observe. You might even catch a glimpse of a whale or two off the coastline!
Wherever you go in the Caribbean you’re sure to vacation in a beautiful location, but make sure you read up on your chosen destination before you leave home so that you’re sure not to miss the real natural highlights of the island amidst the commercial tourist attractions.