Part of the French Antilles, Guadeloupe is a fascinating Caribbean archipelago with a rich culture, delicious food and striking landscapes — including lush jungles, sandy beaches and an active volcano. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with everything from rustic B&Bs to romantic luxury hotels fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whilst this Caribbean gem is made up of more than a dozen islands, most of the best places to stay in Guadeloupe are on Grand Terre and Basse Terre, connected like a butterfly’s delicate wings.
Many visitors choose to stay in verdant Grand Terre, home to Guadeloupe’s international airport. Bustling Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe’s economic capital, sits nearby and is a wonderful place to catch a glimpse of local life.
Once a charming fishing village and now a trendy holiday spot, Sainte-Anne is a great Grand Terre choice for families or sociable travellers. The beautiful beaches of Caravelle, Bois Jolan and Saint-Anne are within easy reach, and there are water sports aplenty. Expect a lively bar and restaurant scene, fun markets, and a collection of idyllic hotels and resorts. Neighbouring Saint-François is also a firm favourite. Tranquil Le Moule is more laid-back, with the excellent Edgar Clerc Archaeological Museum, a rum distillery and lots of spectacular cliff walks.
Adventurers should make for Basse Terre, Guadeloupe’s wilder jungle island. This is the place to go for zip-lining, forest hikes, waterfall swims and the chance to get close to fascinating La Soufrière, an active volcano set within the Parc National de la Guadeloupe. There are some superb rum distilleries in the area, too. Families will adore the Maison du Cacao, the Zoo de Guadeloupe, Deshaies’ Botanical Gardens and the golden stretch of Grand Anse beach.
Boat trips to the islands of Les Saintes and Petite Terre are spectacular, and there’s world-class diving and snorkelling in the waters of the archipelago. This part of the French Caribbean is also famed for its festivals — the best places to stay in Guadeloupe fill up fast during carnivals, saint’s days and arts celebrations, so book your trip well in advance to avoid missing out!