If you are a chocolate lover like me and looking for a fun family-friendly activity do not miss the Project Chocolat at Hotel Chocolat near Soufriere.
Image source: hotelchocolat
They have two experiences available Tree to Bar and Bean to Bar. If you are not in a hurry I would recommend doing the Tree to Bar experience. Here is what the tour includes:
- Rainforest tour of the cacao groves
- Graft a cacao tree
- Make your own chocolate bar
- Market-style lunch included
- Approximately 2.5 hour
The tour offers visitors a unique and immersive journey into the world of chocolate production, taking you through the entire process of making chocolate, from cacao trees to the finished chocolate bar. St. Lucia is known for its lush cacao plantations, and this experience allows you to gain a deep appreciation for the craft of chocolate making.
Image source: hotelchocolat
A significant highlight of the experience is the chocolate tasting. You’ll have the chance to sample a variety of chocolate made from the cacao you’ve seen throughout the tour. You can explore the different flavors and textures that emerge in the final product due to factors like cacao variety, fermentation, and roasting techniques.
Afterward, your skills will be put to the test. You will have the opportunity to mold and create your own chocolate bar using tempered chocolate. You can add different ingredients such as nuts, fruits, or spices to personalize your chocolate.
After all this hard work you will enjoy The Market-style lunch which offers cacao cuisine inspired by the West Indian and British heritage served street-food style – including the famous soft-serve Ice Cream of the Gods or enjoy a refreshing cocktail at The Cacao Bar overlooking a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I would recommend trying the chicken roti and the plantain chips.
Image source: hotelchocolat
At the end of the tour don’t forget to stop by their gift shop where you can purchase the chocolate you’ve seen being made, as well as other cacao-related products like cocoa powder, cacao nibs, and even skincare items made from cacao.
Image source: hotelchocolat
You will learn to appreciate how much work goes into chocolate making. You’ll never think about chocolate in the same way again. It’s no surprise that this experience is still one of my favorites : )
If you stop by please leave us a comment on your experience!
Thanks,
~Lauren