Soufrière

Soufriere is the second largest city on Saint Lucia, after Castries, the capital. It is located on the west coast of the island and was founded in 1736 by French settlers. Currently it has a population of about 8,000 inhabitants. Its growth has several times been interrupted by the devastation of hurricanes and the eruption of the nearby still active volcano, Qualibou. The town's economy is driven by snuff production, cotton plantations, which were originally cultivated by slaves from Africa, and tourism. It is a very touristy town and its main attractions can all be found near the city center: The Pitons (twin mountains emerging from the sea and which is the emblem of the island), Sulphur Springs (the crater of the volcano with sulfur fumes coming out), cataract Toraille, the Diamond Falls with their botanical gardens, and Anse beach.