Anse Chastanet Resort is one of Saint Lucia's best-known hotels, built into the hillside above a crescent of dark volcanic sand on the Soufrière coast. The property sits on a large estate of tropical forest, with hillside rooms scattered among the trees and a few beachfront options at the bottom of the slope, and it is closely linked to the neighbouring Jade Mountain resort. What makes it stand out is the water. The reef begins a few strides from the beach, so snorkelling needs nothing more than a mask, and the resort's dive centre is one of the longest established on the island. Behind the beach, trails climb into the forest, a cocoa estate and a mountain-bike network add land-based options, and the Pitons rise on the southern horizon. It is informal and scenic rather than glossy, and the rooms are designed to make the most of the view.
Location and getting around
The resort lies on the coast just north of Soufrière town, about an hour from Hewanorra airport and a longer drive from Rodney Bay and Castries on winding roads. Most guests arrive by private transfer, and a number of sights, including Sulphur Springs, the Diamond Botanical Gardens, Tet Paul and the Gros Piton trailhead, are within a short drive. The hillside layout means steps and slopes, so ask for a room near the beach or the restaurant if mobility matters, and pack light shoes for the paths.
The rooms
Accommodation ranges from hillside rooms open to the forest and sea to larger suites and beachfront rooms that put you at the water's edge. Many rooms are built with open sides or generous terraces, so the air, the birdsong and the views come with the room. Expect a tropical, eco-minded atmosphere rather than polished hotel finishes, and check which category suits your tolerance for open-air living, insects and climbing stairs. If you want a quieter and more secluded stay, ask for a room higher up the hill.
Good to know
The resort offers several places to eat, including a beachside restaurant and a hillside terrace, and activities range from diving, snorkelling and kayaking to hiking and spa treatments. It suits couples, divers and active travellers best, and it is less well suited to guests who want a big pool deck, a children's programme or flat ground.
Book transfers in advance, ask about dive packages and cruise-free quiet times and confirm what is included in your rate. Hurricane season runs to the end of November, so check flexible cancellation terms if you travel late in the year.
Why stay here
- ✓Two beaches of volcanic sand
- ✓House reef snorkelling
- ✓Dive centre
- ✓Hillside rooms with Piton views
- ✓Beachside and hillside restaurants
- ✓Forest hiking and mountain biking
- ✓Kayaking and watersports
- ✓Spa treatments
Good questions
Where is Anse Chastanet Resort?+
It is on the coast just north of Soufrière on Saint Lucia's southwest side, about an hour by road from Hewanorra airport and close to the Pitons.
Is it good for snorkelling and diving?+
Yes, the reef starts close to the beach and the resort has its own dive centre, which makes it one of the best bases on the island for underwater activities.
Is the resort hilly?+
Yes, rooms are spread across a steep hillside with steps and paths, so request a room near the beach or restaurant if you have limited mobility.
