The west coast of St Lucia is incredibly beautiful, rich and varied in its attractions and notable for its pretty beaches and, in parts, its decided lack of tourist traffic. You can search out isolated waterfalls, hike through astounding rainforest, swim, snorkel and scuba dive in secluded bays and visit peaceful fishing villages, all without the commercial feel of the northwest coast. However, the area is not without its more blatant tourist draws, and these are centred around Soufrière , which dwells in the shadows of the imposing Pitons , and where attractions, upmarket hotels and restaurants lend a bustling air of activity and touristic progress.