Sulphur Springs

Laalasa
Laalasa
First Reviewer
4 out of 5
Avg. Member Rating
3
Reviews
4
Photos
Editor Pick

Smell That Sulphur!

  • November 26, 2009
  • Rated 3 of 5 by Meggysmum from Oxford, United Kingdom
Smell That Sulphur!

As you arrive at Soufriere the impressive volcanic plugs of Gros and Petit Piton dominate the skyline. This is the home to the worlds only "drive-in" volcano. This is possible because the last major eruption blew out the side of the volcano so the area visited is actually within what would have been the crater as the wall is no more.

The first thing that hit us as we arrived at Sulphur Springs in Soufriere was over-powering smell. All the experiments at school with Sulphur smelling like rotten eggs came flooding back. The smell is supposed to be worse at night but it is certainly pretty powerful in the day as well.

I originally visited these springs in 1992 when you were allowed to wander freely between the bubbling pools but now the area is roped off and all visitors stay behind a fence. This was because a guide fell through the crust about 16 years ago and although he was rescued he was obviously badly burnt. As a parent visiting with my children I was much happier that they were not in danger but it does make the visiting experience more sterile.

The sight of all the bubbling rock pools is still very impressive. The rock is mainly grey but every now and again there is a patch where minerals have been deposited and they are a beautiful selection of colours. The guide that we had was very informative and was telling us that the people of Soufriere do not worry about an eruption because they believe that whilst the sulphur smell is in the air the volcano is venting and not building up pressure, I am not sure if that is true or not! The last major venting was in the 1700s and it was steam not lava or ash.

A visit here is quite short as there is really not a lot to see but the initial impression and the aromatic experience still makes it worth a visit. There are toilet facilities but do be prepared to battle your way past lots of sellers whilst trying to make your exit!

Soufriere Mineral Springs

  • July 23, 2005
  • Rated 5 of 5 by calidris from St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
This park was developed with local workers who carried the trail stone on their back up the hillside. The log cabin was assembled on-site near the old mineral springs used by locals for diverse health remedies. Up the trail, you pass by diverse tropical vegetation and catch glimpses of wildlife (if you're quiet). The active hot sulfur fumerales at the summit are real volcanic outlets, where you can feel the geothermal heat of the deep Earth lava blowing steam to the surface. Occasional lava seeps come out from the boiling mud holes, giving visitors a real sense of the power of Mother Earth. Watch your step, but enjoy this unique place!

From journal Active Volcano Vents

Editor Pick

Sulphur Springs- The Drive-Through Volcano

  • March 4, 2005
  • Rated 3 of 5 by Laalasa from Glen Mills, Pennsylvania
Sulphur Springs- The Drive-Through Volcano

The Sulphur Springs, or the ‘world’s only drive-in volcano’ is a short distance from Soufriere. You pay, drive in, park and an official guide will take you around and give you a brief introduction. Although there are ample signs, if you still get lost, follow your nose--the smell of rotten eggs (hydrogen sulphide) is strong.

There were about 20 or so steaming vents with bubbling water, and the guide explained that during full moon with high tides, the vents actually form geysers. The area is filled with ash that has subtle colors, depending on the specific mineral deposits present in it. Apparently, this is classified as an active volcano, and there are four monitoring stations around it.

While we were walking around, exploring the area, we heard some children at play. When we finally saw them, it was unreal–-about four to six kids were splashing in a little natural pool made by a waterfall, tucked away in an area surrounded by the thick rainforest. We saw the sight from a bridge, and with the late afternoon sun streaming through the tree canopy, it was a scene straight out of childhood fantasies.

From journal St. Lucia: THE Caribbean destination

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