Climb to the peak of Saint Lucia's most iconic landmark on this hike up the slopes of the Gros Piton. You get a whole panorama of amazing views along the winding mountain trail, so get to know the surrounding rainforest and the gleaming blue waters of the Caribbean with a full day's worth of exploring.

The day starts when you're picked up from your hotel for a scenic ride around the island's southwest coast. Your driver deposits you at Fond Gens Libre, or Village of the Free People, which marks the start of the trail at the base of Gros Piton.

While you follow the gentle path that wraps around the giant volcanic spire, your guide shares a bit of the history behind the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn how the area sheltered freedom fighters during the slave rebellion of 1748 as you admire a multitude of caves, tunnels, shelters, and lookout points, and see how the vegetation shifts as you ascend toward the 2,579-foot (786-m) peak.

Once you've left the coastal forest far behind for the more rarefied surroundings of elfin woodland, you get a terrific view from the top of the peak. Look out over the Caribbean Sea and inland across a vast stretch of the island—and get a great look at the nearby Petit Piton, the peak's smaller twin. The adventure ends with a steep descent that brings you back to shore, where you can go for a swim at the beach of Laborie before the ride back to your hotel.