What to Do in Guadeloupe: Tips for an Unforgettable Island Escape
Travel in French West Indies
Imagine a place where the vibrant culture meets breathtaking landscapes and endless adventure. Guadeloupe, a gem in the French Caribbean, promises just that. Whether your idea of the perfect holiday involves basking on serene beaches, trekking through lush forests, or diving deep into a world of cultural exploration, this island is your ideal destination.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the must-visit spots and hidden treasures of Guadeloupe. Let’s dive in!
Embrace the Charm of Guadeloupe with Club Med
As our journey through the vibrant and lush island of Guadeloupe concludes, we’ve uncovered the essence of its beauty, from the rhythmic beats of Gwo-Ka music to the majestic heights of La Grande Soufrière.
For those intrigued by the unique blend of French culture and Caribbean flair that Guadeloupe offers, Club Med La Caravelle provides the perfect base to explore the island’s treasures.
Nestled on one of the most beautiful beaches of Guadeloupe, Club Med La Caravelle is a haven where the island’s natural beauty is matched by impeccable service and comfort. This all-inclusive resort caters to both the adventurous spirit and those seeking relaxation, with activities ranging from windsurfing and sailing to spa treatments overlooking the azure Caribbean Sea. Families will delight in the dedicated children’s clubs offering fun and educational activities, ensuring a memorable vacation for all ages.
Visit Club Med’s exclusive offers today and take the first step towards your Caribbean adventure.
Rejuvenate on Varied Beaches: From White to Black Sands
Guadeloupe is home to some of the Caribbean’s most stunning beaches, offering everything from powdery white sands to dramatic black volcanic shores. Each beach presents an opportunity to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, whether you’re looking to relax on soft sands, swim in crystal-clear waters, or take in the spectacular coastal views.
Among the must-visit beaches is Plage de la Caravelle, known for its serene beauty and as a highlight of Club Med’s offerings . Plage de la Perle and Plage de Grande Anse are also favourites for their breathtaking scenery and inviting turquoise waters. Plage des Raisins Clairs, with its shimmering white sands, offers a tranquil retreat for sun seekers.
For those intrigued by the natural contrasts, Basse-Terre’s volcanic landscape gifts visitors with unique black sand beaches such as Plage de Malendure. These beaches, formed from volcanic activity, provide a striking backdrop for swimming and snorkelling.
Experience Local Life at the Markets of Guadeloupe
Exploring the markets of Guadeloupe offers a vibrant immersion into the island’s rich culture and daily life. Here, visitors can indulge in a variety of local products, from succulent fruits and vegetables to aromatic spices, exquisite flowers, handcrafted goods, and unique souvenirs.
The interaction with welcoming locals, coupled with the lively atmosphere and rhythmic music, truly encapsulates the spirit of Guadeloupe.
Noteworthy spots include the bustling spice market in Pointe-à-Pitre and the artisanal craft market in Sainte-Anne, a stone’s throw from the serene Club Med La Caravelle resort, enhancing the experience with its proximity to authentic local culture.
The night market in Le Gosier, along with markets in Basse-Terre, Moule, Abymes, Petit-Bourg, and Saint-François, also promises distinct specialties and experiences, making each visit a unique adventure.
Explore La Grande Soufrière Volcano
Stand atop La Grande Soufrière, the tallest summit in the Lesser Antilles, and an awe-inspiring stratovolcano that crowns Basse-Terre. Embark on a trek to its peak via a trail that meanders through verdant rainforests, past sulfur springs, and over craggy ascents. Though demanding, the journey offers unrivalled vistas of the island and the enticing Caribbean Sea, not to mention the intriguing sight of steam and gas venting from the crater, testament to the ongoing volcanic forces sculpting Guadeloupe.
For those looking to immerse themselves fully in Guadeloupe’s breathtaking natural wonders, our feature on the Top 10 Best Beaches in Guadeloupe provides an in-depth exploration of the island’s most heavenly shores.
Relax at Les Saintes’ Fabulous Bistros and Boutiques
Les Saintes, a picturesque ensemble of eight islands off Guadeloupe’s southern shores, marries natural splendour with Gallic elegance. A ferry ride brings you to Terre-de-Haut, the primary island, for a day of discovery. Immerse yourself in the serenity of exquisite beaches like Plage de Pompierre and Plage du Pain de Sucre, snorkel in the translucent waters, or soak in the history at Fort Napoleon, which hosts a museum and botanical garden. Moreover, savour the local cuisine and shopping; the island’s exquisite bistros and boutiques present delights such as fresh lobster, coconut flan, and artisan pottery.
Dive into the Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve
The Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve, nestled off the coast of Bouillante on Basse-Terre’s west side, is a guardian of marine life. Spanning roughly 1000 hectares, it’s a mosaic of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves, teeming with turtles, rays, dolphins, and a kaleidoscope of fish. Explore this marine marvel through snorkelling, scuba diving, or a glass-bottom boat tour. Don’t miss the bronze homage to Jacques Cousteau, the renowned oceanographer who in 1959 lent his voice to its preservation.