Guadeloupe

About Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe, an overseas region of France in the Lesser Antilles, is often called the 'Butterfly Island' due to the shape of its two main islands: Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, which are separated by a narrow channel called the Salée River. This archipelago offers a diverse range of landscapes and experiences. Grande-Terre, the eastern wing, features rolling hills, sugarcane fields, and beautiful white-sand beaches with resort areas, particularly around Gosier and Sainte-Anne. Basse-Terre, the western wing, is dominated by the La Soufrière volcano and covered in lush rainforest, part of the Guadeloupe National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with hiking trails, waterfalls, and hot springs. The archipelago also includes smaller islands like Marie-Galante, known for its rum production, Les Saintes, with its picturesque bay, and La Désirade, offering a glimpse of traditional Caribbean life. As part of France, Guadeloupe provides visitors with a unique blend of French sophistication and Caribbean relaxation, evident in its cuisine, which combines French techniques with local ingredients and Creole flavors. The island's culture reflects its diverse heritage, with influences from indigenous Carib, African, Indian, and European traditions, expressed through music (particularly zouk and gwo-ka), dance, and colorful festivals.

Highlights