Frequently Asked Questions
Considering booking Cosmos St Lucia?
WHERE IS COSMOS ST LUCIA + WHAT’S THE ADDRESS?
Cosmos is located on the southwest coast of the island, set high on a ridge overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the Bay of Soufriere and the Piton Mountains. We are 3kms from the town of Soufrière and 1km from Anse Chastanet beach, in an area referred to as Mamin on Google maps. See directions on our Contact Page. There are a few other exclusive villas and hotels on this hillside which is accessed by a rough road best suited to 4×4 vehicles.
Our address: Cosmos St Lucia, Anse Chastanet, Soufriere, St Lucia
HOW CAN I CHECK AVAILABILITY OR MAKE A RESERVATION AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
All enquiries for availability and rates must be made by completing the Booking Form on our Reservations page, click on ‘Enquire Now’. Once we have this information we can respond accordingly.
CAN I BOOK AN EVENT AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes! Cosmos is a magical venue for small, intimate celebrations for up to 25 people. For birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, bachelor and bachelorette parties, please see our Guide to Celebrations at Cosmos. For weddings, see our Guide to Sunset Weddings at Cosmos.
CAN I GET MARRIED AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes! Our spectacular panoramic setting, stunning open-air architecture and warm welcome make Cosmos Saint Lucia a magical destination for small, intimate ceremonies and celebrations, for up to 25 guests. Get inspired by our Guide to Sunset Weddings at Cosmos
CAN I BOOK 1 NIGHT AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
The minimum stay at Cosmos in the high season is 7 nights (December-April), and 4 nights during mid and low season (May-November).
IS COSMOS ST LUCIA OPEN TO BOOKINGS FROM LOCAL ST LUCIANS?
Cosmos welcomes local guests at both the Villa and the Lodge. Head to our Reservations page to make an enquiry.
ARE CHILDREN WELCOME AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes, however they must be supervised at all times. Parents and carers must pay heed to the dangers that surround a property set high on a hillside with numerous balconies, pools and terraces.
DOES COSMOS ST LUCIA WELCOME THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY?
Yes. Cosmos welcomes guests from many different backgrounds and has hosted a number of same sex weddings. Although times are changing, attitudes towards the LGBTQ community can be conservative throughout the Caribbean, and certain homosexual acts are still illegal. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted and negative attention.
WHAT ARE THE TERMS & CONDITIONS FOR STAYING AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
While small print and vacations don’t seem to mix (!) it’s important you know our policies, so please take a look at our complete Terms & Conditions.
HOW PRIVATE AND SAFE IS THE COSMOS ST LUCIA PROPERTY?
Accessed by a private drive, Cosmos is nestled behind tall stone walls with locking entrances. There are neighbouring villas however Cosmos is not overlooked by any other properties, nor can it be seen from the road. The whole property is monitored by a CCTV security system. The manager lives in a separate accommodation on the property with her children and is available 24/7 if need be.
WHAT IS ECO LUXURY AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
We define eco luxury as creating a magical experience while minimising the footprint on the beautiful island of St Lucia. Our approach to delivering eco luxury is at the heart of everything we do. From the villa infrastructure and day to day management, to the short and long term impacts within the community, landscape and local economy. This is vital to ensure our vision for Cosmos, and your vacation experience, can be sustained. Find out more here.
WHAT HEALTH & SAFETY PROVISION IS THERE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Cosmos is inspected and approved annually by the St Lucia Ministry of Health, and by the St Lucia Fire and Emergency Services. Our House Manager is trained in first aid, and both the Villa and Lodge have first aid kits available.
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO PLAN MY EVENT AT COSMOS?
To ensure availability we recommend giving your prefered suppliers plenty of notice. Photographers/videographers should be booked 6 months in advance. Live music and custom cakes should be booked 3 months in advance. For anything we provide in-house (flowers, menu, drinks etc), this can be done in the 3 months running up to your celebration.
IS COSMOS ST LUCIA A HOTEL?
No, Cosmos is an exclusive, privately owned property. While we offer private dining, a concierge service and have a recommended private driver for guests, Cosmos does not have the infrastructure or staffing to operate like a hotel, nor was it ever intended as such. The magical experience at Cosmos can only be sustained if we are all mindful of the environmental footprint on this beautiful island. This means some things that guests associate with hotels, like 24/7 air con and limitless laundry, are not part of our offer.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE VILLA AND THE LODGE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
The Villa sleeps up to 14 guests in six bedrooms, The Lodge sleeps up to two guests in studio style accommodation with one queen bed. They can be rented separately or together, accommodating up to 16 guests in total. The Lodge enjoys a secluded location in a corner of the property; It does not overlook, nor is it overlooked by, The Villa. Unsurprisingly, many guests book The Lodge as a honeymoon suite. The facilities of The Villa are not available to guests in The Lodge, unless the property has been rented as a whole.
CAN I THROW A PARTY AT COSMOS?
Yes but, while fun is very welcome, we kindly ask that you keep the atmosphere respectful – this isn’t the place for loud parties. Out of respect for The Lodge guests and our neighbors in the Anse Chastanet hillside community, music should not be audible outside the premises between 10pm and 10am.
WHAT IS THE CLOSEST AIRPORT TO COSMOS ST LUCIA?
The closest airport is UVF, Hewanorra International Airport in Vieux Fort, St Lucia.
There is a second smaller airport in the North of the Island in the capital Castries that services more local flights from the Caribbean: George F. L. Charles Airport (commonly known as Vigie Airport)
Essential information about St Lucia
WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN ST LUCIA?
St Lucia benefits from a tropical, humid climate moderated by northeast trade winds that allow for enjoyable conditions year-round. Due to its location near the equator, St. Lucia does not have very well defined seasons. There is, however, a rainy season that generally falls between June and November. November is the hottest month in St Lucia with an average temperature of 83°F (29°C) and the coolest is January at 79°F (26°C).
WHAT CURRENCY IS USED IN ST LUCIA?
Both US and EC dollars are accepted in St Lucia and credit cards are widely used.
DOES COSMOS ST LUCIA PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION?
We recommend guests book our private driver Craig to provide transportation around St Lucia. Craig is an experienced driver, expert in navigating the islands roads and sharing local knowledge along the way. He has both a large van and smaller vehicle, suitable for trips to and from the airport and for getting around the island. Craig’s contact details and and rates will be sent to you as part of our pre-arrivals information.
To help you plan excursions, below is a price guide (US dollars) for private driver Craig to provide your transport during your vacation at Cosmos St Lucia:
To/from UVF International Airport:
– $80 for 1 to 3 persons, $15 for each additional adult, $5 for each additional child (on arrival at UVF airport, Craig will meet you in the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name)
– For local rides, including nature trails, beaches, waterfalls and volcano (collect,wait, return): $80
– Restaurants, markets and botanical gardens in Soufrière: $60
– Anse Chastanet beach/restaurants: $40
– North of the Island; Marigot Bay, Castries, Rodney Bay, Pigeon Island, Gros Islet Street Party: $300 (Full day 9am-4pm or Full evening 5pm-12pm)
If you book Craig, you do not need to arrange car hire while staying at Cosmos St Lucia. However car rental is also available from the airport; we recommend you book a 4×4 vehicle which is best suited to the rough road leading to Cosmos. A reliable local company is Cool Breeze in Soufriere, with a desk at UVF International airport.
WHAT ARE THE FAMOUS FRIDAY NIGHT STREET JUMP UP PARTIES IN ST LUCIA?
St Lucians like to celebrate life! Celebrated street parties or “jump-ups” take place weekly on Friday evenings in Gros Islet and Anse La Raye, featuring music and dancing in the streets, pop-up bars and superlative “fish fry” barbecues. Our driver can provide transport if you’re interested, which can be arranged with our House Manager.
ARE THERE ANY FESTIVALS IN ST LUCIA?
Yes! Check out the island events schedule for a dose of full volume St. Lucian hospitality. Here’s a quick heads up: Food and Rum Festival – January; Jazz and Arts Festival – May; Summer Carnival – July; Arts and Heritage Festival – October; Atlantic Rally for Cruisers Sailing Festival – November/December; National Day – December.
WHERE CAN I SHOP FOR FOOD AND DRINK NEAR TO COSMOS?
There are numerous excellent opportunities for shopping for provisions locally. Soufriere has a Monday – Saturday farmers market for fresh produce with Saturday morning being the biggest market (open 6am-10am). There is also a fish market near to the farmers market open in the mornings. There is a supermarket, butcher, and bakery in the town. Beverages, beer and spirits can be purchased in the supermarket. Soufriere is approximately one mile from Cosmos.
Everything you need to know about staying at Cosmos St Lucia
IS THERE AIR CONDITIONING AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes, however we encourage mindful use of electricity. The living areas have ceiling fans only, and as Cosmos is positioned high on the hillside, living spaces are open to the breeze and are not air-conditioned. Air conditioning is available in the Villa bedrooms – we encourage guests to only use it on very warm nights. The Lodge is cooled by fans only. This approach reflects how we define eco luxury as creating a magical experience while minimising the footprint on the beautiful island of St Lucia, and we hope guests that choose Cosmos share our view.
WHAT ARE THE CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT TIMES AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Check-in is from 3pm and check-out is by 11am.
IS PARKING AVAILABLE FOR GUESTS AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes. There is on-site parking for one vehicle for the Lodge and a maximum of three spaces for the Villa.
IS THERE A CONCIERGE SERVICE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes. Our House Manager can assist you in planning excursions and activities, arranging transport and recommending restaurants and other local experiences. Advance booking is recommended for yacht charter, restaurant bookings in fine hotels and diving courses. All other local experiences can be arranged on short notice.
IS THERE A HOUSEKEEPING SERVICE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes, bedrooms are made-up by noon each day. Water conservation is a top priority at Cosmos so towels and bed linens are changed every three days unless otherwise requested.
CAN I HAVE A MASSAGE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes. We work with local therapists to provide a number of Spa Treatments to help you unwind and ease into your vacation. Spa treatments must be booked in advance using our Essential Checklist, distributed prior to your arrival. Treatments take place in our Pavilion Lounge or in the Lodge, and are usually done one at a time. For large groups requiring many treatments, couples massages are possible with two therapists working simultaneously.
HOW MANY STAFF ARE THERE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Cosmos has a team of four friendly and helpful staff, led by our House Manager who lives on-site 24/7 in a separate accommodation at the entrance to Cosmos. The team includes two housekeepers and a gardener, as well as part time chefs and service providers. We aim to look after you and your guests during your stay, and if that means that privacy is your priority, that too can be arranged. Meet the team in this blog post.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN BEACH TOWELS TO COSMOS ST LUCIA?
No. We provide beach towels and Turkish towels – which you can also wear as a wrap. So that’s one less thing to pack!
CAN MY CLOTHES BE WASHED WHILE STAYING AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Staff can do one large load of laundry per week and the cost is $35. Conserving water on our little Caribbean island is a priority, hence we limit this service.
IS BABYSITTING AVAILABLE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes. Babysitting and childcare can be arranged in advance with our House Manager.
ARE TOILETRIES PROVIDED TO GUESTS AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
No. We provide beach towels and Turkish towels – which you can also wear as a wrap. So that’s one less thing to pack!
DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN HAIRDRYER TO COSMOS ST LUCIA?
No. Hairdryers and a curling iron are available for guest use.
IS THERE A DRY CLEANING SERVICE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
No. Local services aren’t reliable so we provide a clothing steamer for guests to use.
ARE THERE MOSQUITOS AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Mosquitos and midges are present, we’re in the tropics! Insects are native to this environment but their numbers fluctuate depending on the time of the year. It is important to use an insect repellent day and night, indoors and outdoors, on any exposed areas of skin. Use repellent frequently (especially after swimming and showering), and take some with you if you are going out in the evening; long clothing should also be worn. And always drop your mosquito net and make sure its closed before dark.
HOW BIG ARE THE POOLS AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
The infinity ozone pool is 48’/15m and is for the exclusive use of guests of the Villa. The depth runs from 5’/1.5m at the shallow end to 10’/3m at the deep end. The Lodge has its own private plunge pool which is 5’/1.5m deep. The garden plunge pool and solar heated plunge pool are both 4’6”/1.35m deep. There are no lifeguards on duty at Cosmos.
ARE THE POOLS AT COSMOS ST LUCIA CHLORINATED?
All pools are purified with a salt water ozone system that relies on ultraviolet light rather than harsh chemicals. Some chlorine is necessary to make the pools safe, and this is generated from the salt water system, and it is not noticeable to bathers.
WHAT EXERCISE FACILITIES ARE THERE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Swimming, yoga, walking, cycling and jogging are all easily practiced in and around Cosmos. For hygiene reasons please bring your own yoga mat. There is also a local gym in Soufrière, and private trainers can be arranged.
IS SNORKELLING EQUIPMENT PROVIDED AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
No. But the snorkelling at nearby beaches and reefs is fantastic so bring your own or hire a set from Scuba St Lucia at Anse Chastanet beach.
IS THERE GOOD BIRD WATCHING AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
ARE THERE SET TIMES FOR MEALS AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
DO I HAVE TO PAY EXTRA FOR MEALS AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
DOES COSMOS ST LUCIA CATER FOR VEGETARIANS?
Yes, a vegetarian option is always available. See our Private Dining Menu to get an idea of what’s on offer. Please advise our House Manager of any allergies or food intolerances. We do our best to meet special dietary needs but there is some limitation as to what International goods are available on the island.
IS THERE DRINKING WATER AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
CAN I MAKE MY OWN DRINKS AND SNACKS AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
IS THERE A STOCKED BAR AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
ARE THERE RULES AROUND DRINKING ALCOHOL AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
IS THERE WIFI AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes. Internet speeds at Cosmos have a range up to 100mbps, depending on the device being used. There is an internal network boosting the signal throughout the property so that all bedrooms and living areas enjoy a good connection. Internet service may be interrupted at times due to inclement weather.
WHAT IS THE CELL PHONE COVERAGE LIKE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
WHAT’S THE VOLTAGE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
ARE THERE SPEAKERS I CAN PLAY MUSIC THROUGH AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
WILL I NEED TO MAKE PAYMENTS TO COSMOS ST LUCIA DURING MY STAY?
WILL I NEED CASH WHILE STAYING AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
IS TIPPING THE STAFF EXPECTED AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
CAN I SMOKE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM ILL WHILE STAYING AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
I’M NOT STAYING AT COSMOS ST LUCIA, CAN I VISIT THE PROPERTY?
HOW MUCH PRIVACY WILL I HAVE AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
DOES COSMOS CATER TO SPECIAL DIETS?
CAN I VARY THE DAILY SET DINNER MENUS FOR DIFFERENT DAYS OF THE WEEK?
CAN I CHOOSE A CELEBRATIONS MENU WHILE STAYING AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
WILL I NEED TO BRING AN ADAPTOR TO CHARGE MY ELECTRONIC DEVICES AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
DOES COSMOS ST LUCIA PROVIDE TOYS FOR THE POOL?
DOES COSMOS ST LUCIA CATER FOR SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?
Before arrival you will be sent an Essential Checklist to specify your preferred food, drink and spa treatments for the first few days.
For dairy-free diets, please indicate on the Essential Checklist your preference for almond, rice or oat milk and whether this should be sweetened or unsweetened. There will be an extra charge added to your bill (cost plus 20% shop and delivery fee). Availability is limited by our location on a small island, which means there are no other dairy-free substitutes available locally (such as cheeses or yogurts), however we can easily replace ice cream with sorbet. For gluten-free requirements, you may wish to bring dry goods with you – pasta, bread, biscuits -these items are not available locally.
On arrival, please discuss your requirements further with our house manager. St Lucia abounds with fresh fish, and a vast variety of fresh local produce. Do visit the Soufriere farmers and fish market for more inspiration.
IS THERE ANY FLEXIBILITY TO THE PRIVATE DINING MENU AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
The daily menus that feature on our Private Dining page are fixed by days of the week, and pescatarian, vegetarian and vegan options are always available. The fixed menus may not be varied by days of the week unless you have rented the entire property, both the Villa and the Lodge. You may order a Celebration Meal for a minimum of six guests, any day of the week.
DO BEDROOMS AT COSMOS ST LUCIA HAVE A SAFE?
CAN I PREPARE MY OWN MEALS AT COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes. The Villa has a fully equipped guest bar for preparation of teas, coffees, juices, snacks and mixed drinks. Equipment provided includes wet bar, drip coffee maker, cafetiers, electric kettle, blender, toaster, toaster oven, refrigerator, ice maker and freezer. There is a full range of glasses, pool glasses and tableware.
The Villa’s fully equipped Cooks’ kitchen, gas barbecue and wood-fired pizza oven may be used by guests only with the supervision of our staff. Appliances include large gas range, refrigerator, Kitchenaid mixer, Vitamix blender, deep fat frier, microwave oven, juicer, food processor and a full range of pots, pans and cooking utensils.
The Lodge has its own fully equipped kitchen with fridge-freezer, gas range, toaster, electric kettle, cafetier, drip coffee maker, food processor and a range of tableware, pots and pans and kitchen appliances.
Things to do near Cosmos St Lucia
WHERE IS THE NEAREST BEACH TO COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Cosmos is positioned high on a ridge hillside. The closest beach is Anse Chastanet, a 15 minute walk down the hill. The climb back up the hill is challenging, and many guests prefer to drive or get a lift. Hummingbird Beach Park (in Soufriere town) and Paradise Beach, at the foot of the Petit Piton, are both a short drive away. Lounge chair rental is available at all beaches. There are plenty of small secluded beaches to explore on the Island; charter a boat or take a water taxi from town for some magical beach adventures.
ARE THERE GOOD RESTAURANTS NEAR COSMOS ST LUCIA?
Yes. In the vicinity of Cosmos are great restaurants with a variety of Caribbean and international cuisines. See our blog featuring guests’ favourites and ask our House Manager for restaurant and bar recommendations, and to make reservations.
WHERE CAN I ENJOY LIVE MUSIC NEAR COSMOS ST LUCIA?
WHAT ACTIVITIES ARE THERE AROUND COSMOS ST LUCIA?
In our immediate vicinity are rainforests, hot springs, glistening seas, beaches and protected coral reefs, offering a wealth of fantastic local experiences. There’s everything from scuba diving, sailing, botanical gardens, historic plantation houses, horse riding, ATV adventures and mud bathing in the world’s only drive-in volcano.
See our blog post for more information and recommended service providers. We encourage guests to consider what they’d like to experience before they leave home, in order to book ahead and ensure availability.
