Pigeon Island National Landmark, St. Lucia

by Lisa Matte

An idyllic island wedding in a secluded tropical setting is yours for the asking when you plan to exchange vows on the Caribbean paradise of St. Lucia. But make no mistake, we're not talking about a run-of-the-mill resort wedding. They're all well and good. In fact, they're often fabulous. St. Lucia, though, offers an alternative in the form of a scenic national landmark setting.

Pigeon Island National Landmark (don't let the name lead you astray) is a 44-acre island reserve just off the north coast of St. Lucia. Connected to the mainland by the construction of a man-made causeway in 1972, the island park is hailed as a monument to St. Lucia's history and its role in 18th-century maritime trade. An interpretation center located within the confines of the park traces the history of long ago battles between English and French troops struggling to control the strategically important outpost.

The view from a well-preserved garrison high atop the island's tallest is breathtaking. Pledge your unending love for one another at this island peak where blue-green waters of the Caribbean Sea stretch for miles toward the horizon or choose to say your "I Do's" in serene garden setting surrounded by tropical flora and fauna. For additional information, contact the St. Lucia National Trust by telephone at 758/453-7656 or e-mail to natrust@candw.lc.

Copyright Lisa Matte

Photos copyright Paris Permenter and John Bigley