With a shape resembling a butterfly from above, Guadeloupe is a group of islands beloved for its poetic scenery and sandy beaches. The “place of beautiful waters” will enchant you in every possible way. Just before you start your island-hopping, read our guide with the most stunning places you can’t miss.
Parc National de la Guadeloupe
Forest, Park
Besides being Guadeloupe’s administrative capital, Basse-Terre is also a draw for nature lovers and must-visit for every birdwatcher. Recognized as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, Guadeloupe National Park is a huge protected rain forest with plenty of hiking trails and home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Tour the park to view some impressive waterfalls, take a break for a picnic and stop for a cooling swim to restore your lost energy.
Home to more than fifty unique beaches, Sainte-Anne is where you will stroll under palm trees, relax on white sand and swim in shallow turquoise waters. After a walk through the city, choose your shelter and spend your day scuba diving, sailing or simply lounging on the beach enjoying the local feel and tropical way of life.
Meaning ”The Desired One” in French, this place definitely lives up to its name. La Désirade is a peaceful island, probably the most untouched of Guadeloupe. Although least-visited compared to others, superb white sand beaches protected by long coral reefs and warm hospitality are just two reasons to step back in time through this amazing resort.
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Pointe des Châteaux is a scenic isthmus at the easternmost point of Grande-Terre and the ideal spot to experience the majestic power of nature. Made of distinctive rock formations and a large littoral strip, not only does it host rare plant and animal species but it also exudes an incomparable rugged beauty thanks to the crashing waves and strong winds.
Off the coast of Basse-Terre, the waters surrounding Pigeon Island comprise the protected underwater park of Jacques Cousteau, one of the world’s top dive areas. Whether you are a first-time diver or an experienced one, the sub-aquatic scenery is not to be missed. Respect the fragile ecosystem and snorkel along the shallow water reefs or scuba dive for some encounters with maritime species you will remember for a lifetime.
Terre-de-Haut
Church
A small piece of Francemarried with a distinctive Caribbeaness is what Terre-de-Haut is about. Despite the daily invasion of visitors it still retains a unique charm as a typical fishing spot with its wooden houses and local church. Spoil yourself with magnificent views and take advantage of the amazing beaches; let’s be honest, this is what you’re here for.
Maria Menegaki was born in Crete in 1991 and is an MA student of Social and Historical Anthropology at the University of the Aegean. She holds a BA in Geography and is constantly looking for ways to combine her academic interests with her passion for travelling and exploring. When she is not planning her next trip, she enjoys spending time with her cats, reading poetry or treehugging. She loves music and cinema and is determined never to grow up.
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