The essentials:
- Location: Archipelago south of Guadeloupe, made up mainly of Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas.
- Main access: Ferry from Trois-Rivières (15 to 20 minutes' crossing).
- Highlight: The bay of Les Saintes, ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world.
- Ideal for: Historical discovery (Fort Napoléon), snorkelling (Pain de Sucre) and walks.
The Saintes archipelago is an essential stop during your stay in Guadeloupe. Easily accessible from Jardin Malanga, this destination, where cars are very rare, offers an authentic break between crystal-clear coves and historic heritage.
How do you get to Les Saintes from Guadeloupe? Where do you catch the boat?
Reaching the archipelago is simple, with several possible departure points across the two main islands of Guadeloupe. Here are your options:
From Basse-Terre (the quickest option):
- By ferry from Trois-Rivières: This is the most direct and practical route, particularly if you are staying at Jardin Malanga. From your accommodation in Trois-Rivières, the crossing is very short. Allow only 15 to 20 minutes to reach the Terre-de-Haut landing stage. Departures are daily.
- By catamaran from Rivière-Sens: Leaving from the marina, this full-day catamaran excursion lets you sail with swimming stops in coves before landing on the island.
From Grande-Terre:
- By ferry from Pointe-à-Pitre: Boat shuttles leave from the Bergevin ferry terminal. The direct crossing takes about 45 to 60 minutes.
- By ferry from Saint-François: If you are staying at the eastern tip of Guadeloupe, boats connect the Saint-François marina to Les Saintes. Allow about 1 hour 30 for the crossing.
Practical note: Whichever port you leave from, remember to book your ferry tickets in advance, particularly at weekends and in high season.
What to do on Terre-de-Haut? Top 3 activities
Terre-de-Haut is the main island for visitors. Its modest size makes it easy to discover on foot, by electric bike or by small electric car.
1. Explore Fort Napoléon and its panorama
About a 15-minute walk from the landing stage, Fort Napoléon is the island's central historic site.
- The panorama: The fort offers an open 360° view over the bay of Les Saintes, Dominica, Marie-Galante and Guadeloupe.
- Tropical wildlife and flora: The natural access path is lined with many cacti. You will easily spot the iguanas that live there.
2. Discover the beaches of Terre-de-Haut
The island has about ten beaches, each with a different setting. Here are the three main ones to know:
- Pain de Sucre beach: A little haven of peace, renowned as the island's best snorkelling spot. Access involves taking a steep little footpath.
- Pompierre beach: A calm beach lined with coconut palms and sheltered from the swell by rocks. Access is very easy, about 15 minutes' walk from the town.
- Grande Anse: A long wild beach facing the Atlantic Ocean. Because of the impressive waves and currents, swimming is prohibited there, but the site is ideal for walking.
3. Get away from it all on îlet à Cabrit
If you have a little time, find a boat owner at the harbour to take you to îlet à Cabrit.
This small islet (1 km long by 750 metres wide) is 10 minutes away by boat on a generally calm sea. You can explore the ruins of Fort Joséphine and enjoy great serenity.
What is the culinary speciality of Les Saintes?
Don't leave the archipelago without tasting the Tourment d'amour.
This traditional West Indian pastry is made with a shortcrust base and a jam (coconut, guava or banana), topped with a soft sponge cake. Sold directly at the harbour by local women makers, it is a culinary must to savour.
Organise your excursion to Les Saintes with Jardin Malanga.
To make your stay easier, our hotel's concierge service takes care of booking your ferry tickets or your excursion to Les Saintes. Ask our team!
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