Pointe-à-Pitre and Guadeloupe's natural charm
The butterfly-shaped island in the Atlantic Ocean has been a French overseas department since 1982. It is composed of several islands, two of which are large: Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, which covers the largest area. However, Grande-Terre is the most populated and has the region's main cities, including the sub-prefecture, Pointe-à-Pitre. This island is also called “Little Brittany”.
Although Basse-Terre is essentially mountainous, including the Soufrière, Grand-Terre has very flat landscapes that are better suited to human activity. The two main parts of Guadeloupe are separated by a narrow sea channel, commonly called the “Salt River”. Across the channel from Pointe-à-Pitre, is Baie-Mahault, the economic center of Guadeloupe with many businesses.
Guadeloupe has administrative dependencies such as Désirade, Marie-Galante, Petite-Terre and the Saintes. An Air France flight between Paris and Pointe-à-Pitre takes about 8 hours. Our airlines offers flights alone or with accommodations as well as regular promotions.
Visit Pointe-à-Pitre and Grande-Terre
Pointe-à-Pitre is the first city that you will visit during your trip to Guadeloupe. It is the region's economic center. Some of the things to see before you travel inland or along the coast:
- The port district
- Victory Square, the historical center in Pointe-à-Pitre
- The Guadeloupe Aquarium, to discover various species from the sea around the islands.
- The Saint-Antoine covered market, where you will find all types of local products such as rum or spices.
- The Schoelcher Museum, where you can admire the famous art critic's collection.
- The Saint-John Perse Museum, located in a magnificent colonial style home
You may also go shopping for souvenirs downtown in pedestrian streets as well as in Frébault Street near the seafront.
A few miles from Pointe-à-Pitre is the island's first seaside resort: the Gosier. It is quite animated with many beaches.
Port-Louis, at the far north of the island, also has many tourist attractions.
Nature travel to Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is an exceptional region for its biodiversity. It was designated by UNESCO's Biosphere Reserve. Its natural park offers nature's charms and splendors. The Soufrière volcano, the Grand-Cul-de-Sac natural marine reserve or Carbet Falls are some of the essential sites to visit during a trip to Guadeloupe.
There is nothing like diving or hiking in Basse-Terre to experience the extent of its natural riches. Pebble or pink sandy beaches, waterfalls, ponds, forests: the island has many treasures.
Be sure to visit the Petit-Bourg and its floral grounds, Carbet Falls, Trois-Rivières, Saint-Claude and the Soufrière volcano, the Bouillante hot springs and the island's numerous coffee plantations. You will probably not have enough time to discover all of Guadeloupe's riches.
The best time to reserve your plane ticket for Pointe-à-Pitre is during the dry season between December and April. You may also go during the months of November, May and June when temperatures are relatively pleasant.
