Straddling the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, Guadeloupe is an archipelago of wild and sumptuous scenery. Known as the “butterfly island”, Guadeloupe is the destination of choice for an idyllic holiday.
With its cultural wealth, breathtaking landscapes, divine beaches and friendly people, Guadeloupe, made up of 7 islands with unique characteristics, is the ideal place for a dream holiday. Its humid tropical climate is an indisputable asset and a key factor in deciding the right time to go to Guadeloupe, depending on your needs and desires.
Basse-Terre island and its natural delights
The island of Basse-terre, the western wing of the butterfly, is the largest island in the archipelago. It is also the most lush and volcanic. It is home to the Soufrière de Saint-Claude, the highest peak in Guadeloupe, with a 360° view. At its foot are the Bains Jaunes, natural hot springs of sulphurous water, perfect for a dip.
The beaches of Basse-Terre are remarkable, especially Grande-Anse, with its turquoise waters and mountain backdrop. It’s the place to be if you want to enjoy a radiant sunset. Further north is the stunning beach of Anse de la Perle. Less frequented, it invites you to enjoy a dinner with your feet in the sand and even spot turtles.
From waterfalls to volcano walks, boat trips and diving spots, including the famous Cousteau reserve, outdoor enthusiasts are in for a treat.
The Grande-Terre island and its picture-postcard landscapes
The island of Grande-Terre, next to the island of Basse-Terre, is the eastern wing of the butterfly. A bubbling paradise, it boasts magnificent fine-sand beaches and crystal-clear lagoons. A delight to bask in and observe (without a mask!) the multicoloured fish nestling near the rocks.
On the edge of the town of Saint-Anne is Caravelle beach. Quiet and authentic, it’s a must to complete the enchantment of your trip. Nearby, the wilder Bois Jolan beach boasts a magnificent lagoon. And for midnight sunbathers, the pretty Raisins Clairs beach is the perfect place to go, as it is lit up at night.
For a cultural break, a visit to the city of Pointe-à-Pitre, a colonial-style historical and artistic stronghold, is highly recommended. Finally, for a bit of partying and fun, Grande-Terre has a lively nightlife with bars, clubs and casinos.
The 5 surrounding islands and their authenticity
The 5 surrounding islands, which are more isolated, are ideal for a day trip. The main advantage is that you can join them for a pleasant boat trip on the archipelago’s clear waters.
Marie-Galante, a land of sugar cane cultivation, operates three distilleries. It welcomes the curious and connoisseurs alike for rum tastings. La Feuillère beach offers 800 metres of white sand and a sublime backdrop. To the north-west, set among cliffs, lies a charming cove protected from the wind called Anse Canot beach.
The island of Les Saintes, with its Antillean charm and breathtaking scenery, is captivating with its swirl of colours. The Pain de Sucre beach, set at the bottom of a cliff in an enchanting setting, is particularly popular. The Pompierre beach, which requires a 1-hour walk to reach, offers the comfort of discovering a place set in a paradise.
The island of La Désirade, which has remained untamed, promises an excursion off the beaten track. Lastly, the island of Petite-Terre, made up of two small uninhabited islands, is an enchanting place to relax.
Culture and heritage
The architecture, a precious testimony to Guadeloupe’s history, is rare and exceptional. The most unusual are the Creole huts, the homes of former slaves, which are very common in the region. There are also a number of mansions and distilleries that bear witness to the island’s colonialist past.
Guadeloupe is a land of mixed cultures, where Creole culture predominates. This culture can be seen first and foremost in the traditional cuisine, with accras, fierce avocado or crab matété. Among the many exceptional dishes are dog sauce and spices such as colombo.
Music and dance are other areas that perfectly illustrate West Indian culture. Gwoka, which originated during the period of slavery and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a unique art form combining responsorial singing (alternating between a soloist and a choir), Ka drum rhythms and dance. And let’s not forget the famous zouk and, more recently, ragga and dancehall. There’s plenty to get you up and dancing!
Follow us on Instagram