Visit Terre-de-Haut in Les Saintes: turquoise beaches, panoramas and local flavors

The wealth of Guadeloupe is found in the various islands that make it up: Grande-Terre, Basse-Terre, La Désirade, Marie-Galante and... The Saintes archipelago located only a few kilometers south of Basse-Terre!

Terre-de-Haut, the most famous of the islands, seduces by its colorful houses, its translucent coves and its peaceful atmosphere.

Accessible by sea shuttle from Trois-Rivières, Terre-de-Haut can be discovered on foot, by scooter or by cart. Between panoramic hikes, turquoise beaches and local specialties, here is everything you need to see and do.

The essential walks in Terre-de-Haut

Fort Napoleon, the iconic view

Impossible to visit Terre-de-Haut without going up to Fort Napoleon. Perched on the heights, this historic site offers one of the most beautiful views in Guadeloupe. The Bay of Saintes reveals itself in its entire curve, often ranked among the most beautiful in the world.

The fort also houses a botanical garden and a small museum recounting the history of Les Saintes. The climb is short but a bit steep: bring water and enjoy the view while taking your time. You can also opt to rent an electric cart, an electric bike or a scooter.

Our recommendation: Go up to Fort Napoleon for the sunset.

Le Sommet du Chameau, for lovers of wide horizons

Le Chameau is the highest point in Terre-de-Haut. The hike starts from the from the main road. Leave your vehicle at the barrier and off you go for a 30-minute climb that is accessible but requires some breath.

At the top, the reward is total: a 360 degree view of the archipelago, Basse-Terre and the open ocean.

We recommend going to the summit for sunrise for early mornings or for sunset. When you come back down in the evening, at night, you will be accompanied by fireflies.

The magical beaches of Terre-de-Haut

Sugarloaf, the postcard

It's THE postcard beach. Protected, clear, ideal for snorkeling, it offers seabed accessible from the first meters.

Morning is the best time to enjoy it: the natural shade still protects the sand.

Anse Crawen, wild and discreet

More isolated, at the end of the island, Anse Crawen seduces with its raw side.

The water is crystal clear, and with a little patience, it is possible to see sea turtles that come to feed in the seagrass beds. A discreet show, which must be observed without disturbing.

Anse Rodrigue, the peaceful cove

Anse Rodrigue is one of the quietest beaches in Terre-de-Haut.

Unfrequented, it offers a moment of absolute calm. It is not uncommon to encounter a few curious goats coming down from the nearby hills.

Anse Mire, snorkeling and small shipwreck

Anse Mire attracts snorkeling enthusiasts. A few dozen meters from the shore, a small wreck is resting under water.

The site is easily accessible by swimming and allows you to observe tropical fish and corals in the translucent water of the bay.

Explore the other islands of Les Saintes

Terre-de-Bas, the authentic

Less frequented than Terre-de-Haut, Terre-de-Bas maintains a more rural atmosphere. People come here for its calm, its wilder landscapes and its traditional cuisine.

At Eugénie's, Accras are renowned on the island and beyond for their incomparable flavor and texture. A gourmet stop that is part of the experience.

Îlet à Cabri, for a change of perspective

Facing Terre-de-Haut, the islet à Cabri completes the scenery.

Accessible by Petite Saintoise or by kayak, it offers a different point of view of the bay and an even more isolated atmosphere.

The historical remains and the panoramas give the impression of being alone in the world.

Specialties to try in Les Saintes

Les Saintes have their own culinary identity.

Impossible to leave without tasting:

• Fish pancakes, thin and fragrant (or their variants of Lambi or lobster)
• Chicken rissoles
• Cod pies
• And the famous torment of love, a small local pie with a Genoese cookie and topped with jam, often coconut or even guava, banana or pineapple, a generous local cake.

These flavors are an integral part of the memory we keep of Les Saintes.

Where to eat and go out in Les Saintes?

In Les Saintes, we eat well. Very good even. Fresh products, fish of the day, Creole cuisine and a friendly atmosphere. Here are some must-see addresses in Terre-de-Haut:

• Ti Bo Doudou: Emblematic address of Les Saintes with your feet in the sand. Grilled fish, lobster in season, local specialties... We come for the plate, we stay for the atmosphere.
• Les Balances: Impossible to miss this ultra-photogenic address. Modern cuisine, well-presented dishes, perfect setting for lunch or dinner at sunset.
• Le Coconut: If you want to extend the evening, head to Le Coconut. It is one of the best known spots for partying in Les Saintes. Music, lively atmosphere, mix of locals and visitors... The perfect place to end the day in a different way.