With the luxurious amenities and stellar accommodations available at most Caribbean villas, vacationers booking a stay on the island of St. Lucia may be accustomed to the high life. Yet while in-ground pools, spacious living areas and a top-notch concierge service may have travelers feeling like they're on top of the world, a trip to the Pitons of St. Lucia can make that feeling a reality.

The most widely photographed landmark on the island, the Pitons are two volcanic peaks that tower over this small Caribbean island. Of the two monoliths, the larger is known as Gros Piton and stands at 771 meters tall, while the smaller is called Petit Piton and stands 743 meters tall. These astounding formations have been named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and vacationers spending time on the western coast of the island can spend a day exploring them to find out why.

The Pitons are covered in lush green vegetation that contrasts nicely with the azure waters below, and adds a stunning backdrop to the city of Soufriere, the former capital of the island nation. Soufriere is the perfect starting point for further exploration of Petit Piton, which provides a bit of a challenge for the amateur climber, but rewards them with stellar views of both Piton Bay and the island itself.

Climbing Grand Piton is a bit easier, as many tour groups operate within the area and the routes are better marked. Anyone attempting to tackle the peak, however, should be sure to plan ahead, as the local park service requires that a professional guide accompany all who hope to reach the summit. Despite the precautions, the trip to the top should only take about two hours, and provides an excellent vantage point from which to view the Caribbean itself.

Though they appear to be mountains amid the otherwise flat coast, the Pitons are actually active volcanic plugs. Travelers needn't be worried, however, as the volcanic activity poses little threat to visitors and lends itself to some more pleasing geological features, including hot mud pools and sulfur springs.

If your adventures bring you to the island's highest peak, then why not stay in its nicest luxury rentals as well? Though there are many excellent properties to choose from, few can compare with the beauty of the La Belle Helene villa. This 11-bedroom French Colonial manor comfortably sleeps up to 22 people, and boasts a wealth of luxurious features, including a deep onsite pool with its own waterfall, daily maid service and easy access to the nearby town of Soufriere, itself the home of the Diamond waterfall.