A visit to the islands of Les Saintes is a must on any trip to Guadeloupe. Located some fifteen kilometers from the south of Basse-Terre, these small paradise islands are accessible by boat from the commune of Trois-Rivières, the crossing taking around 20 minutes. I recommend the CTM Deher company, which offers many round trips every day. Remember to buy your tickets in advance, especially in high season.

On to Terre-de-Haut, where the Petite Villa are located. This is a real little corner of paradise.

Once you've arrived, turn right and you'll soon discover the charming church of Terre-de-Haut. If you continue in the direction of the village, you'll find vendors selling fish crêpes, one of the island's specialties. Beware, you'll only find them in the morning. Make sure you get there as soon as you arrive, before they run out 😉

Take a stroll through the village and admire the Creole "kaz" at the side of the road.

Terre-de-Haut is a very small village where you can get around on foot.

However, if you don't want to rush around the area, it's best to rent a vehicle. You'll have the choice between a small car, an electric bike or a scooter. Above all, book in advance by telephone or Internet.

Once you've received your vehicle, it's off to Fort Napoléon. Built in 1867 by Napoleon III and classified as a historical monument in 1997, it became a museum in 1973. Situated high up on Morne Mire, the fort offers a 360° view of the surrounding islets and, of course, the Baie des Saintes, classified by UNESCO as one of the most beautiful bays in the world.

The museum tells the story of Les Saintes, and also boasts a magnificent botanical garden.

After the tour, head back towards the village of Terre-de-Haut and stop off on the way at Anse Mire beach, where you can grab your flippers, mask and snorkel (and your best sports camera) and set off on a real treasure hunt in search of Lindy, the famous shipwreck. Sunk in 2006, it has become one of Terre-de-Haut's star attractions, home to a wealth of fish and coral to delight the eye.

Some species of fish and coral are protected, so please respect the marine flora and fauna.

After the effort, the comfort, isn't that what they say?

It's time to take a break and go to “1 Ti Bo Doudou” for a bite to eat, with your feet in the sand, overlooking the bay of Les Saintes. You'll find a wide choice of local produce, including fish freshly caught by our local fishermen.

Then, how about digesting with some quality snorkeling?

Let's discover Pain de Sucre beach! Also known as the natural aquarium of Terre-de-Haut, you can relax on the sand or in the turquoise waters. As well as being one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, it's also the best diving spot. You'll find an abundance of fish and multicolored coral worthy of the finest aquariums.

Now it's time to freshen up with some home-made ice cream. Take your vehicle back towards the village, to the pier where you'll find the Césibon ice cream parlour. Once there, the only question to ask is: Which flavor should I choose?

Before heading back to the boat, don't forget to try the famous tourments d'amour, the local cake.

You'll find a few local vendors near the quay.

This little specialty of Les Saintes was once prepared by fishermen's wives as a reward for a hard day at sea, with a delicious little coconut cake.

Now it's time for you to get back on the ferry. Time flies so fast sometimes...

The ideal way to get the most out of Terre-de-Haut would be to spend 2 nights. Imagine yourself in one of our magnificent little villas overlooking the Baie des Saintes, admiring the sunsets...

This is where our escapade in Terre-de-Haut comes to an end, and we're back on board the boat that will take you back to Guadeloupe, after a busy day full of memories.