Pigeon Island National Landmark

Pigeon Island National Landmark is heralded as one of the most important monuments of Saint Lucia's history. It is a vivid reflection of the war for our great island. A living museum within a natural setting, Pigeon Island is being nurtured through careful protection and intelligent development to serve the intellectual, cultural and recreational needs of all guests that visit this historic site.

The magnificent, 44 acre island reserve, off the North West, was originally surrounded by water but was joined to the mainland by a man-made causeway in 1972. Recognizing the need to secure this site where the balance of late eighteenth century naval power was decided, the Government of Saint Lucia designated Pigeon Island as a National Park in 1979 and as a National Landmark in 1992. It is open to visitation 365 days a year. Pigeon Island National Landmark has a number of heritage attractions and amenities which include:

• •Remains of military buildings used during the war between the French and the British for the island of Saint Lucia.
• •An Interpretation Centre describing the rich history of the island and the war over it.
• •Two beautiful beaches and a restaurant filled with local cuisine.
• •A pub and restaurant with a historical theme.
• •A lookout point at the top of the Fort which gives a panoramic view of the Northwest coastline.

Pigeon Island was first occupied by the Amerindians. The French who owned the island in 1778 declared war on the British, who retaliated by attacking them in Saint Lucia and capturing the island. The British then built a Naval Base at Gros-Islet Bay, heavily fortifying Pigeon Island. From there they were able to monitor the French fleet in Martinique which resulted in the defeat of the French at the Battle of the Saints in 1782. Pigeon Island was therefore a key factor in the Battles between the British and the French.

This spectacular site filled with a rich history is now the perfect spot for picnics, weddings or just a regular family day at the beach. The old fort over looking Gros Islet is now a very popular spot to hike and get great pictures of the beach, the neighboring village, the subtle Caribbean Sea and Martinique the island to the north of us. Pigeon Island is one of the places that needs to be on the bucket list when visiting St.Lucia.