Discover Guadeloupe: Europe’s Tropical Paradise in the Caribbean
A Caribbean paradise and part of those Antilles that dot the Atlantic Ocean from Florida to the Venezuelan coast, the Guadeloupe archipelago is, curiously, still Europe. It is, in fact, a French Overseas Department, reachable with just an identity card. You can drive with an Italian driving license, no special vaccinations are needed, and you simply move the clock back by 5 hours (6 hours during daylight saving time).
There are five main islands that make up the Guadeloupe archipelago: Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, like two wings of a large butterfly, Marie-Galante, Les Saintes (divided into Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas), and La Désirade. Lands that dance to the rhythm of the biguine and offer more than just postcard-perfect views.
A week planned perhaps between January and March, or later (avoiding the more hurricane-prone period between August and September), can provide a pleasant taste of the archipelago. The Guadeloupe-Pôle Caraïbes Airport, which connects the islands to France and other Caribbean destinations, is only a few kilometers from Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe’s economic capital. Nearby, Gosier hosts most of the hotels with a mix of traditional and modern accommodations.
Grande-Terre: Picture-Perfect Beaches and Sugar Cane
A visit to Pointe-à-Pitre requires at least half a day. Begin at the daring architecture of the MACTe, a cultural center and museum dedicated to the history of slavery with engaging exhibits and impressive visual installations. From there, immerse yourself in the city’s Creole atmosphere by exploring the historic center. Visit the Marché aux épices on Rue Frébault to enjoy the cinnamon scents and colorful local crafts or wander through the exotic fruit and fish stalls of the vibrant market at Place de la Victoire.
Leaving Pointe-à-Pitre, head to Grande-Terre, a flat, limestone island largely devoted to sugar cane cultivation. The north coast features wild, less frequented beaches, while the south coast boasts some of the most famous sandy stretches.
The cemetery in Morne-à-l’Eau, with its black-and-white tiled tombs, is an intriguing stop on the way north. Nearby, the mangroves stretch almost to Port-Louis, where Plage de Babin offers mineral-rich waters reputed to benefit the skin. Continue to Petit-Canal, home to monuments and remnants of Guadeloupe’s slave past, including the ruins of a former prison overtaken by the massive roots of a strangler tree.
North of Port-Louis, you’ll find Anse du Souffleur, a long stretch of white sand ideal for picnics, followed by Plage de la Chapelle. Further along, the high cliffs of Pointe de la Grande Vigie and Porte d’Enfer contrast with the serene sandy shores.
On the south coast, the beaches near Sainte-Anne—such as Bois Jolan and Plage des Raisins Clairs—feature powdery white sand and cobalt-blue waters. Past Saint-François, known for its luxury hotels and an 18-hole golf course, lies the dramatic Pointe des Châteaux, where a short climb rewards you with panoramic views.
Return via Le Moule, one of Guadeloupe’s oldest towns, with its colorful wooden houses, Saint Jean Baptiste Church, and the beach of l’Autre Bord. Inland, the Grand Fonds area offers lush valleys and hills, showcasing the unique landscapes of Grande-Terre.
Les Saintes: Crystal-Clear Waters of Terre-de-Haut
From Trois-Rivières in Basse-Terre, a short ferry ride takes you to Terre-de-Haut, the largest of the Les Saintes islands. This tranquil destination invites visitors to explore by electric car, bike, or scooter.
Highlights include Fort Napoléon, built between 1844 and 1897, with a museum dedicated to the history and traditions of Les Saintes and a stunning view of the bay. The village exudes charm with its wooden houses, volcanic stone church, and pristine beaches like Pain de Sucre, ideal for snorkeling, as well as Grande Anse and Plage Rodrigue.
Basse-Terre: Tropical Forests and Volcanic Sands
Dominated by the La Soufrière volcano, Basse-Terre features lush tropical forests, part of a National Park since 1989, and a mix of sandy, rocky, and volcanic beaches. Plan at least two days to explore this region.
The north coast offers paradisiacal beaches like Plage de la Ramée, Plage de Clugny, and the Grande Anse. Near Deshaies, Habitation Côte Sous le Vent provides insights into Creole heritage, while the Maison du cacao showcases the art of chocolate making.
Before heading inland, stop at Malendure Beach, near Îlet Pigeon, a top spot for diving. The D23 road cuts through the tropical forest, leading to stunning views, waterfalls like Chutes du Carbet, and the vibrant town of Basse-Terre, founded in 1643.
Marie-Galante: Wild Views and Rum
Known for its sugar cane fields, windmills, and stunning beaches, Marie-Galante is the most tranquil of the Guadeloupe islands. Accessible by ferry from Pointe-à-Pitre, it boasts sights like the Bézard mill in Capesterre, the Habitation Trianon-Roussel, and Anse Canot beach.
Don’t miss the Père Labat distillery, where traditional rum is still produced using century-old methods, offering a taste of Guadeloupe’s history and flavor.
Where to Eat
Guadeloupe’s diverse cuisine reflects its French and Creole heritage. Enjoy accras and colombo chicken at the Marché aux épices in Pointe-à-Pitre. For upscale dining, try Le Zawag or Chez Tante Arlette for authentic seafood dishes.
Where to Stay
Stay in Le Gosier at La Créole Beach Hôtel & Spa for a luxurious experience. For a more intimate retreat, try Le Jardin Malanga in Basse-Terre, or for eco-conscious travelers, the Tendacayou Ecolodge offers a unique rainforest escape.
