Snapshots from Soufriere, Dominica

Dominica: Snapshots from Soufrière

On Saturday, after our time exploring vibrant Roseau and snorkeling in Champagne Reef (more on that later!), we headed to the postcard-perfect town of Soufrière, en route to Scott’s Head. Many locals had recommended the area for snorkeling, but we ended up just taking in the scenery, astounded by the natural beauty of this little coastal town. Soufrière is a village on the southwest coast of Dominica with a population of less than 1500. We drove by fisherman preparing their nets and children splashing in the water. In some ways the town reminded me of the Amalfi Coast, with candy-colored homes built into the cliffside and stunning views of the sea below. We were mesmerized from the moment we began driving in – beautiful vistas and sweeping views of the town below.

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CarRod’s // Rodney’s Wellness Retreat

We had read about Rodney’s Wellness Retreat and happened upon it while driving through the town of Soufriere. We went in for lunch and felt like we had stumbled into an oasis. This space is so much more than a restaurant; it’s a campsite, it’s a garden space, it’s a resting place. In truth, it’s difficult to define. We ate lunch at a table for two under a cashew tree while the owner/chef made up a custom lunch for us (there’s no menu). There were tents popped up across the way from us available for rent for budget or adventure travelers looking for an incredible eco-friendly experience within Dominica. The tents – single or double occupancy – can be rented for $100 EC per night (a little over $37 per night for two people). Like the rest of the island, Rodney’s is lush, and is home to mango, papaya, grapefruit, cashew, orange, lime and lemon trees among others. As someone mentioned to us, one of the incredible things about Dominica is that plant life thrives in the nutrient-rich environment. If a tomato seed falls to the soil, a fruit-bearing plant will undoubtedly sprout in a short period of time. If you’re in Soufriere, this place is a must, whether just for lunch or for an entire afternoon of lazing in a hammock.

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xoxo from the islands,

Shannon Kircher

 

 

More about Shannon Kircher

Shannon Kircher is the founder and editor of The Wanderlust Effect. Founded in 2009, she has continued to document her international escapes as an expat in Europe and the Caribbean. Additionally, Shannon is the founder of Compass & Vine, a luxury boutique travel design firm, and is the Director of Marketing for the Frangipani Beach Resort. Shannon holds an MSc in Social Policy and Development from the London School of Economics and is a current candidate for WSET Level 3 in Wines & Spirits.