GROS ET PETIT PITONS – SAINTE-LUCIE

GROS ET PETIT PITONS - SAINTE-LUCIE

Description

Located on the southwestern coast of the island of Saint Lucia, the Pitons, connected by the Piton Mitan ridge, are the two highest peaks of the Qualibou volcanic chain, also known as La Soufrière. Named Gros Piton, rising to 770 meters, and Petit Piton, rising to 743 meters, these two volcanic peaks still show signs of activity, as evidenced by the presence of a geothermal field (solfatara) emitting sulfur fumaroles and featuring hot springs. Also known as the Twin Peaks, they are a precise landmark for sailors, as they are visible from almost anywhere on the island.

Biodiversity

The Pitons are home to a rich marine ecosystem, including 168 species of fish living around a coral reef covering nearly 60% of the marine area. The coastal waters are home to various species such as hawksbill turtles, barracudas, wrasses, green sea turtles, and moray eels. At sea, bottlenose dolphins, whale sharks, and pilot whales can also be observed. In total, there are 60 species of cnidarians, 14 species of sponges, 11 species of echinoderms, 15 species of arthropods, 8 species of mollusks, and 8 species of annelids.

On land, we find lush vegetation. Gros Piton has 148 plant species, while Petit Piton and the intermediate ridge of Piton Mitan have 97. Among them are species endemic to the Lesser Antilles, such as the West Indian juniper (Juniperus barbadensis L.) and the canoe vine (Amphilophium paniculatum). This plant diversity includes a tropical rainforest that transitions into a subtropical rainforest at the summits, with areas of dry forest and humid dwarf forest. Thanks to the steep slope of the terrain, areas of natural forest remain.

The terrestrial fauna is just as diverse. Gros Piton is home to 27 species of birds, five of which are endemic, as well as three native rodents, one opossum, three bats, eight reptiles, and three amphibians.

Ecotourism potential

These iconic sites, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, mainly attract visitors who explore them on hikes or sea trips for diving. They also welcome Coral Gardeners who, as part of the island’s National Adaptation Plan (2018-2028), are working together to protect the reefs from the devastating effects of climate change.

In addition, the marine area is protected by the NGO SMMA (Soufriere Marine Management Area Association Inc), which is approved by the government of Saint Lucia to manage the conservation of the marine environment and promote the sustainable use of resources, particularly in the areas of fishing and tourism.

These natural environments even inspired the creation of a local beer called Piton, a light beverage that is very popular with both locals and tourists.