Les Saintes

Les Saintes, a tiny archipelago of small islands off the south coast of Guadeloupe, is one of the most exquisite and charming spots in the Caribbean. Its main island, Terre-de-Haut, curves around a magnificent bay that is officially counted among the most beautiful bays in the world, a stunning sweep of turquoise water dotted with green islets. The island's single pretty village, of red-roofed, pastel Creole cottages, exudes a laid-back, almost Mediterranean French charm, with few cars, and is overlooked by the historic hilltop Fort Napoléon with its gardens and sweeping views. Gorgeous small beaches, snorkelling and a relaxed pace make Les Saintes a delightful, idyllic escape.

History

The islands, uninhabited for lack of spring water, were visited by Arawak and then Kalinago peoples from Guadeloupe and Dominica, who called them Caaroucaëra, and Christopher Columbus named them Los Santos on 4 November 1493, just after All Saints' Day. A French expedition annexed them on 18 October 1648, and on 15 August 1666, after a hurricane scattered the attacking English fleet, the English besiegers surrendered, a victory still celebrated on Terre-de-Haut every year (Wikipedia, Îles des Saintes).

The landscape

• The bay - one of the most beautiful bays in the world.
• The village - the charming red-roofed Creole cottages.
• Fort Napoléon - the hilltop fort, gardens and views.
• The beaches - the gorgeous small beaches and snorkelling.

When to go

December to April, the dry season, for the best weather and calmest seas; Les Saintes is reached by a scenic ferry from Guadeloupe, and its charming village, bay, fort and beaches reward a relaxed day trip or, better, an overnight to enjoy the island once the day-trippers leave. The car-light island is easily explored on foot, by scooter or golf cart.

Things to know

Les Saintes is tiny and can get busy with day-trippers arriving by ferry, especially in peak season, so an overnight reveals its quieter, more magical side; as part of French Guadeloupe, it is a relatively pricey destination, and accommodation is limited. As one of the most beautiful and charming spots in the Caribbean, though, with its world-renowned bay, pretty car-light Creole village, historic fort and lovely beaches, all with laid-back French flair, Les Saintes is a genuine and delightful idyll.

Nearby

The main islands of Guadeloupe and the island of Marie-Galante are within reach.

Key facts