Guadeloupe (Point-a-Pitre)
Description
View cruises with Guadeloupe (Point-a-Pitre)Guadeloupe, a butterfly shaped gem of a land, floats between the islands of Antigua and Dominica. Between the wings of Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre lies Pointe-à-Pitre, the main economic center of the area. Founded in 1763 by the French governor Gabriel de Clieu, this gracious city of some 16500 souls is a perfect blend of old and new, a place where colonial buildings rub shoulders with vibrant modern architecture. Pointe-à-Pitre itself has much to offer-lively markets, upscale boutiques, bustling cafes and a charming harbor make for a perfect invitation to spend the day exploring. A trip to Basse-Terre would not be complete without a visit to the spectacular Jardin Botanique de Deshaies (botanical garden), where a mile of pathways winds through 15 different garden areas, housing over 1,000 species of plants and flowers. On the eastern "wing," Grand-Terre, lies one of the most breathtaking sites in Guadeloupe. Pointe de Chateaux ("Castle Point") is a windswept peninsula made of unique rock formations, with a cross shaped memorial at its tip. Visitors to the area will be rewarded with stunning views of the Atlantic and the neighboring island of La Desirade.
Points of Interest
- Castle Point
- Botanic Garden
- Outdoor Adventure
- Sainte Anne's Marketplace
- Montebello Rum Distillery
- Crayfish Falls
- Checkerboard Cemetery
More about Guadeloupe (Point-a-Pitre) Points of Interest
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Castle Point -
On the easternmost tip of Grande-Terre, dramatic rock formations carved by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean hold panoramic vistas as well as a cross shaped memorial to the island's history of slavery.
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Botanic Garden -
Brimming with spectacular tropical flora and many species of birds, the peaceful botanical gardens on Basse-Terre offer a tranquil respite, among exotic plants, manicured grounds, waterfalls, and fragrant blooms.
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Outdoor Adventure -
Kayak, snorkel, and sail the island's calm waters where marine animals and exotic plants thrive in a bio diverse ecosystem. Stroll botanical gardens, hike rugged hills and discover waterfalls in the tropical forest of the Basse-Terre region.
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Sainte Anne's Marketplace -
A resort town and fishing port, Sainte-Anne offers a wonderfully colorful marketplace and arts and craft village. Support local enterprise and friendly vendors as you hunt for fresh produce, spices and souvenirs.
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Montebello Rum Distillery -
Here on this working estate, you'll walk with your guide through the grounds detailing the distillery's history and production methods. Enjoy a taste of tropical rum punch in the tasting room that also serves as a gift shop where you can by "spirited" souvenirs.
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Crayfish Falls -
Within the lush rainforest splendor of Guadeloupe National Park on Basse-Terre, feel the refreshing spray of this sparkling cascade found within an area of great biodiversity and natural beauty.
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Checkerboard Cemetery -
At this unique hillside cemetery dating back to the mid-19th century, all of the tombs are shaped like tiny houses and are decorated with black and white tiles in a striking checkerboard pattern.
