Vieux Fort District can be found on the southern tip of the island. It is conveniently located at the southern hub of the main highway, meaning you are approximately 1 hour to Castries in the north, and just 5 to 10 minutes from Hewanorra International Airport located right within the district. It is best known for international transport, commercial shipping, and manufacturing, as well as fishing and livestock farming. The District is home to the town of Vieux Fort, a bustling commercial center overlooking a wide bay and industrial port. It also is home to Sandy Beach, Anse de Sables (a prime location for kitesurfing and windsurfing), and the landmark Moule à Chique Lighthouse. These attract tourists looking to enjoy watersports, explore scenic coastal cliffs, or take in panoramic lookout points offering views of St. Vincent on a clear day.
History: Vieux Fort, French for “Old Fort,” earned its name from a redoubt built there by French settlers in the 17th century to protect against attacks. It served as a vital defense point and later grew into a center for the island’s sugar industry during the 18th and 19th centuries, before transforming into Saint Lucia’s primary entry point with the establishment of the airport and seaport in the 20th century.
Population (2010 census): 16,284
Estimated Average Nightly Short Term Rental Price (AirBnB 2023): $115 with a range of $35 to $250
