Exclusive report from our special correspondent in Guadeloupe, Jessica Pierné.
Some places tell more than just a story. They whisper memories, a way of life, a vision of the world. The experience begins in Saint-François, southeast of Grande-Terre. Overlooking the Caribbean waters, "Les Voiles Bleues" boasts charm, welcoming travelers to a heavenly setting. Comfortable and fully equipped, these villas are ideal for fully enjoying the Caribbean destination. Between two dives, we set off to discover the island of Désirade, which remains the most authentic destination in the archipelago. An enchanting journey to the most beautiful overseas region.
Les Voiles Bleues, a dream villa
Lulled by the Caribbean Sea and the sound of birdsong, Les Voiles Bleues offers a haven of serenity just minutes from Saint-François beach. In the sublime contemporary villa we occupy, each room has a view of the indigo-colored pool. We particularly love the bohemian, chic, and relaxed atmosphere. The tropical style is enhanced in some villas by South Sea blues, island wood furniture, and rope. A perfect place to fully enjoy the Caribbean destination.
The power of landscapes
For this first day, head to Pointe des Châteaux, an iconic site listed as a French heritage site. Here, the waves crash against the rocks and the view of the steep cliffs is breathtaking. It takes about ten minutes to reach the large cross at the top of the hill. This setting creates a special atmosphere, where nature offers us a spectacle in its purest form. On the other side, we can see our next destination: the island of Désirade.
The island of La Désirade: In the footsteps of Christopher Columbus
To discover this discreet and unspoiled island, we take the boat that connects Saint-François to the island of La Désirade. After a 45-minute crossing, we finally see it. This island is the first land discovered during Christopher Columbus's second voyage across the Atlantic Ocean. It was on November 2, 1493, that the navigator reached it and immediately renamed it "La Désirade". A name due to the relief of the crew members who would have shouted: “Finally, the island you’ve been longing for!”Unlike any other island in the Guadeloupe archipelago, it has a peaceful and authentic atmosphere. Today, it is explored off the beaten track, discovering white sand beaches and a rich cultural heritage.
Stones transformed into jewelry
The island of La Désirade is volcanic. It is composed of a magmatic base and dates from the Jurassic period. This geological heritage gave an idea to Veronique Tonton which exhibits its creations and offers travelers the chance to make a piece of jewelry with a stone from the island. Established since 2013, the Lapidary Workshop makes pendants with basalt, jasper, agate, or fossilized wood. Transforming rock has become a passion for the founder of the workshop, who sells her creations exclusively in Guadeloupe. https://www.desi-jaspe.com
The artisanal heritage
Imported from India, the indigo plant was developed in the West Indies in the mid-17th century. For nearly half a century, before the cultivation of tobacco and sugar cane, indigo was king in the archipelago of Guadeloupe. This ancient West Indian tradition continues with "the house of Indigo" on the island of Désirade. Ghislain shares his passion for plant-based dyeing and sells his creations in his shop. Expect to pay €40 for a T-shirt.
Preserved wildlife
Unperturbed by the enormous waves, the iguanas The Lesser Antilles have been camping on these rocks for millennia. Unlike its "common" cousin, which colonized the Saintes archipelago, this reptile is threatened with extinction. The entire island of Désirade, which was once the site of deportation of leprosy patients, is now a nature reserve. In recent years, signs have been put up on the road leading to Pointe des Colibris. La Désirade and Petite Terre are the last places in the archipelago where they can be observed.
The must-sees of La Désirade
Before leaving the island, we climb up to the small chapel of Our Lady of Calvary to admire the view overlooking the Caribbean waters. From this mountain, you can sometimes hear the songs of the choir of the Beauséjour church, located in the island's main village.
Souffleur Beach, in Port-Louis, is one of the most beautiful beaches on Grande Terre
For this new day spent exploring, swimming, and observing wildlife, we stop at Souffleur Beach for lunch with our feet in the sand. On the menu: grilled fish, Creole rice, and plantain gratin. The day continues in the warm, turquoise waters of Grande-Terre, then in the tropical forest of Basse-Terre.
ROUTE LOG:
GO THERE:
Air Caribbean : A specialist airline for the Caribbean and French Guiana, offering comfortable and regular service from Paris-Orly. Daily round-trip flights, Paris/Pointe-à-Pitre, start at €545.
www.aircaraibes.com
WHERE TO SLEEP ?
The Blue Sails: High-end villas with private concierge, swimming pool, electric Méhari, wellness experiences and tailor-made tastings.
https://voilesbleues.com
WHERE TO EAT?
Restaurant Le 619 in Saint-François : a great place for fine cuisine just a stone's throw from the marina.
Instagram: @le_619
Facebook: 619
Rose-Ita Restaurant in Désirade : with its terrace overlooking the sea, it is an unmissable address on the island: it serves sea cicadas, lobsters and the delicious coconut flan. Souffleur district, near the Désirade National Reserve.
www.la-desirade.com/restaurant/rose-ita.html
TOURIST OFFICES
The Riviera of the Islands of Guadeloupe – Tourist Office
Representing the municipalities of Gosier, Sainte-Anne, Saint-François and La Désirade.
www.rivieraguadeloupe.com
Instagram: @riviera_guadeloupe
Guadeloupe Islands Tourism Committee (CTIG)
www.lesilesdeguadeloupe.com
