Basse Terre, to the west, is mountainous and covered with a lush tropical rainforest.
The Islands of Guadeloupe
Located in the French Caribbean, Guadeloupe is actually two islands that are narrowly separated by a sea strait known as the Salée River.
Grande Terre, on the eastern side, has beautiful white-sand beaches that surround vast fields of sugarcane and tropical fruits.
The smaller islands of Les Saintes, Marie-Galante and La Désirade sit to the south with St. Martin and St. Barthelemy a bit further to the north.
Along with many water sports and seaside activities, Guadeloupe offers exciting eco-tourism adventures that include hikes to the top of the still-active volcano, La Soufrière.
With over 200 marked trails, nature enthusiasts can venture under the forest's canopy, over suspension bridges and through luxurious vegetation to towering waterfalls, grassy wetlands and mangrove-covered coastlines.
In the port city of Pointe-à-Pitre, the Darse open-air market is always bustling and is great place to find local crafts and specialties. The place de la Victoire is lined with Creole houses, 100-year old royal palms, cafés and small shops. The lively nightlife is centered around the Marina where bars and restaurants line the waterfront.
The people of Guadeloupe are proud of their cultural heritage and traditions. Music and dance reflect their African and European origins and a large number of festivals are held throughout the year.
Carnival has been celebrated since the 17th century and the Cooks Festival features the excellent cuisine of the island. Cod fish fritters, Creole black pudding, poached crayfish and conch are among Guadeloupe's signature dishes.
For a quieter, hidden-away stay, the off-islands of Les Saintes, La Désirade and Marie-Galante can be reached by ferry or plane. These charming islands offer fishing villages, old windmills, friendly people and simple fare.
Though some 150 miles to the north, St. Martin and St. Barthélémy are officially under the administrative jurisdiction of Guadeloupe.
St. Martin is the smallest island in the world ruled by two countries, France and the Netherlands.
The story goes that Frenchman started walking from the north and the Dutchman from the south where they met became the international boundary. The island boasts beautiful beaches and fine French restaurants.
St. Barthélémy, or St. Bart, is considered to be one of the chicest islands in the world. This long-time hotspot for the rich and famous only covers eight square miles, but is the place to rent an upscale villa or small beach-front hotel.
