Exploring the Islands of the Guadeloupean Archipelago: The Hidden Treasures of La Désirade

La Désirade is a territory that everyone should visit during a stay in Guadeloupe. It is a sublime island located in the east of the archipelago, still unknown and preserved from mass tourism. With its 1,700 inhabitants, the vast majority of whom are fishermen, La Désirade seems to be an intimate and exclusive place that only a lucky few have the chance to explore. Today, La Créole Beach Hotel & Spa reveals some of the best kept secrets of the island. So, you can plan a wonderful excursion or a longer stay by taking a ferry from the city of Saint-François. This is a moment in your trip to Guadeloupe that will leave you speechless and take your vacation to the next level.

1. La Désirade National Reserve

The La Désirade National Reserve is a remarkable geological and natural sanctuary. It includes two distinct protection areas: the La Désirade National Nature Reserve, which highlights its geological features, and the Îlets de Petite-Terre National Nature Reserve. The first is located in Baie-Mahault and is accessible by the only road crossing the island. This exceptional reserve is the result of a fascinating geological history. It offers visitors a rare glimpse of the beginnings of the formation of the Caribbean plate, with its basalt flows and radiolarity banks.

The Îlets de Petite-Terre National Nature Reserve is accessible by sea. “Titè”, as it is called in Creole, includes two islands: Terre de Haut and Terre de Bas. Only the latter is open to the public and it takes about an hour by boat to reach this small tropical paradise. Our advice: book your seats in advance, as they are very limited. During the crossing and if you are lucky, you will be able to see Turtles and Humpback Whales, especially during the period from December to April. Bottlenose dolphins and other flying fish are also species that can be seen in this area. Once there, you will be amazed by the breathtaking landscapes: salt flats bordered by mangroves, a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, and many other wonders. An educational trail leading to the lighthouse also allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history of the island, which was inhabited until 1972.

2. Petite Rivière Beach

If you want to feel alone in the world on a paradisiacal beach, we invite you to Petite Rivière beach. Its peaceful and preserved atmosphere makes it the perfect place for a relaxing day in complete tranquility. This beach bordered by coconut trees is protected by a coral reef.

3. Baie-Mahault and the Eastern Tip of the Island

Baie-Mahault is a territory where Christopher Columbus was said to have landed in 1493. Today, it is a place steeped in history that fascinates heritage lovers and the curious. On site, you will enjoy a magnificent walk during which you will discover the remains of an ancient leper colony (establishment intended to accommodate people affected by leprosy) and a cotton factory, which recall the eventful past of the island. You can also discover the former weather station at Pointe Doublé, which offers spectacular panoramas of the Desiradian coastline.

4. Climb to the Calvary Chapel

La Desirade has many other hidden treasures. Let's now set off to discover the Calvary Chapel, perched on the heights of the island. It is an essential place for hiking enthusiasts. Although the slope is a bit steep, the ascent is steeped by a superb view of the port and the south of the island. From up there, it is even possible to join the ridge path and admire the wild and preserved landscapes of La Désirade, a true natural setting in the heart of the Caribbean.

La Désirade offers visitors an authentic immersion in the heart of nature and Guadeloupe's history. Between spectacular landscapes, paradisiacal beaches and historical remains, each corner of the island reveals a hidden treasure just waiting to be discovered. Do not waste another minute and start planning a trip that promises to be unforgettable now!

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