The Best Sight in Guadeloupe

Background Illustration for Sights

To see each "wing" of the butterfly, you'll need to budget at least one day. They are connected by a bridge, and Grande-Terre has pretty villages along its south coast and the spectacular Pointe des Châteaux. You can see the main sights in Pointe-à-Pitre in a half day. Touring the rugged, mountainous Basse-Terre is a challenge. If time is a problem, head straight to the west coast; you could easily spend a day traveling its length, stopping for sightseeing, lunch, and a swim. You can make day trips to the islands, but an overnight or more works best. Leave your heavy luggage in the baggage room of your "mainland" hotel and take a small bag on the ferry.

Pointe des Châteaux

A National Grand Site, the island's easternmost point offers a breathtaking view of the Atlantic crashing against huge rocks, carving them into shapes resembling pyramids. A rocky arm reaching out to the ocean, this spot is a spectacular display of sea versus land. A nine-ton crucifix can be seen for miles out at sea and was erected for the centennial of the Catholic diocese in 1946. There are spectacular views of Guadeloupe's southern and eastern coasts and the island of La Désirade. The beach has few facilities now that most vendors have been relocated to Petit Anse Kahouanne, about a mile up the road; so bring your own food and drink. The Village Artisanal is open every day, and taxis run every hour in high season.

Rte. de la Pointe des Châteaux, 97118, Guadeloupe

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