Far from standardized “beach buggy” holidays, the archipelago now focuses on promoting its biodiversity. Between lush gardens and mysterious forests, discoveries of natural heritage to be preserved, a source of unexpected benefits.
It has been some time since we measured the size of the place. Emotions slowly take root in his intricately designed and richly colored landscapes. Nature then shows her vigor, sprinkled with magic. In the early morning, the animal world is already decorated with its elegance. The flight of birds, both solemn and desolate, before the immensity of the blue of the sea, offers itself to the view of those who know how to see the sublime. Grace, in a word. As in a dream, here too the elements dictate the mood and connect us to this land, seriously conveying the idea that protecting nature is definitely our duty. This April, the tropical heat is punctuated by torrential rains that arrive without warning and drag us back into our dark faces. But when the sun returns, beyond the postcard, it is the effervescent joy of a profoundly generous archipelago with many faces that awakens passion in us. This part of France with a thousand nuances definitely knows how to combine relaxation with power.
Away from mass tourism, and often low price – Among their neighbors, the islands of Guadeloupe now want to promote slow tourism. It’s about taking your time and feeling out of the atmosphere of the place, pondering the most precious thing. that is biodiversity. Mangroves, the tropical forests that straddle the archipelago between land and sea, harbor a rich ecosystem at their roots. Connected to life, imbued with a mystical image, they have fueled many religious beliefs since Amerindian times. These islands truly remain a land of syncretism. From the plant world, we know how to reap the unmistakable benefits. Plants whose healing reputation is passed down orally in fairy tales and legends. Even today, in Creole gardens, tropical plants are grown for their supposed medicinal properties. A journey to discover magical nature, an infinite source of well-being.
Seas and Creole Gardens Mountain Biking
Discovering Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin with Bell Mangrove
It’s easy to spend a knowledge-rich day at Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin, the largest bay in the Lesser Antilles, famous for its coral reef. Depart Belle Mangrove and her naturalist guide at the speed of a sea mountain bike for a day of educational discovery, swimming and bird watching. In the afternoon, a hearty lunch of barbecue, punch and other local dishes will be served. In particular, you will discover the secrets of the mangrove and its mangrove beds, which shelter an entire ecosystem and the many species of birds that come to nest there. Your day will end with a memorable sunset. Cruising these waters equates to an experience of absolute relaxation, which is also perfect for families.
More information about Bel Mangrove.
Discovering Creole Gardens in Marie-Galant
Creole Garden by Richard Chelsea. Fufugong Marie-Galante.
Going to Marie-Galante is like a trip down memory lane, as this island seems timeless. With its nearly 100 factories and remnants of sugar refineries, it retains a unique identity. Marie-Galante is the cradle of medicine for the Guadeloupe grandmothers who know how to take advantage of its endemic flora. All kinds of plants with supposed medicinal properties grow in Creole gardens. These homestead plots, once cultivated by slaves, combine a wide variety of crops. Richard Chelsea has many fruit trees and many types of legumes from Africa or Asia, such as pigeon peas, reed peas or bucus pea. Grown without fertilizers or pesticides, these plants produce excellent yields. And each fruit has its advantage. ginger is said to be good for coughs, zeb zaigile for sore throats, and pei gooseberry is said to fight hypertension.
You can get there with the responsive My Otantik Travel, a local agency that offers special activities throughout the archipelago. More information about Marie Galante.
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Vallombruse Park
One of the most beautiful parks in Guadeloupe. more than 1000 types of flowers and plants grow here: orchids, ferns, hoyas, anthurias, porcelain roses… And more than 150 types of palm trees. Japanese ponds and streams offer visitors a refreshing retreat in the heart of this lush Garden of Eden, home to several pink flamingos, hummingbirds and other parrots. Discover the floral paths on foot or on the electric train, where the visit will be narrated by Magguy Chaulet, the founder of this first flower garden in the Guadeloupe Islands. Allow at least 1h15.
More information about Valombreuse Park.
Massages and cocoa
Cocoa house
The facility is an old factory. Once the brown gold of the Aztecs and Mayans, chocolate has become too expensive to produce, but is culturally very present in the Guadeloupe Islands. Cacao is a typical plant of Creole gardens, many make their own chocolate. Here we suggest walking around the cocoa plantation and following the educational course. At the end of the visit, you can see the production of chocolate made in laboratory conditions, accompanied by a tasting commentary. Average visit duration: one hour. Perfect for families with small children.
More information about the House of Cocoa.
Massage Laorey
For a well-being break, Laôrey offers massages in idyllic settings: on the river, in the woods, in luxury villas or on the beach. Let yourself relax in the hands of professional masseurs, experts from the Leila team, who love peppermint essential oils. of lime and Ravensara mixed with two neutral oils. Practice alone, in pairs or in a group of up to 10 people. A chance to have an acoustic musician accompany you in this moment of letting go. The service can be accompanied by a snack: breakfast, snack or breakfast. From €160 for one hour of massage.
More information about Laôrey massage and Karedetoi massage oil.
Desert Garden on La Desirade Island
Desert Garden botanical garden. photo press
Famous for its coral reef, the wild island of La Desirade, which is 11 km long and will be covered by 4×4, will also surprise you with its many iguanas in the wild. Managed by the Antilles Association, the Desert Garden is the largest botanical garden of its kind in the entire Caribbean. It is home to more than 800 different species of cacti and other succulents from all continents. The members of the association work to save and return to its natural habitat the cactus called “English head”, which is endemic to the island and is unfortunately endangered. The park offers educational and outreach tours. Open and illuminated at night until 20:00. Entrance 10 euros, about 2 hours.
More information about the Desert Botanical Garden. Car rental in Désirade Location Pioche.
Turtles and a colonial house
Educational Exploration on the North Grand-Terre Coast
A visit to the north of Grande-Terre with the Plus association. photo press
Go on a tour of the northern Grande-Terre coast with guides from the Plus association. Departing from Les Souffleurs beach towards the tip of Antigua, along a path marked by the National Forestry Office, the association offers educational excursions on the history of the Guadeloupe Islands, its horticultural heritage or the identity of the landscape of Northern Grand-Terre. mills, its sugar plantations as well as mangroves. Thus, meetings with farmers are offered, as well as observation of turtles during the spawning period.
More information about the PLUS association.
Visit the colonial house of Zévallos
You are recommended to visit this old colonial house and its garden. The guide presents the history of the Guadeloupe islands, crops and plantations.
More information about the Zévallos house.
Or sleep
Hotel Les Galets Rouges lodge & spa
With a luxurious tropical feel, this recent hotel of charm and character offers suites with sea views, superior services, massages and treatments. Possibility to order floating breakfast directly in the private pool next to the room. The beachfront Galets Beach Restaurant, located on the beach, offers a very refined Creole menu.
More information about Les Galets Rouges.
Hotel Amaudo
Recently renovated, this small colonial-style hotel offers each of its 14 rooms a balcony and a 180° panoramic view of the ocean and surrounding islands. It is set in lush greenery overlooking Anse à la Barque and has a panoramic swimming pool.
More information about Hotel Amaudo.
Where to eat?
Colombo
Restaurant Le Colombo in Saint-Francois. Dr
A true institution in Saint-François, this family-run business is one of the staples of the Guadeloupe Islands, a favorite with locals and tourists alike who love their excellent and generous Caribbean cuisine.
More information about Colombo.
Badian
For lovers of Creole bistronomy, this restaurant is located near Valombreuse park. We love the cod acra, coconut milk ouasso and the fabulous exotic tiramisu.
More information about La Badiane.
Lagrangian
Lagranlag will make you discover the charm of “desiradian” cuisine, one of the best Creole cuisines, where you can taste freshly caught seafood. Juicy broth, pork fricassee, lobster or even a fabulous gratin of local vegetables.
More information about Lagranlag.
The poetry of dishes
The poetry of cuisine, a Marie-Galantaz institution, offers Bebele, a typical and traditional dish of the island, the recipe of which is passed down from mother to daughter. It consists of whole grains, green bananas, wheat flour and wheat, all cooked with spices and lime. Delicious.
More information about La Poésie des Plats.
Laborde Beach
Overlooking Anse Laborde Beach, come and relax alone or with your family. Lunches, cocktails, tapas, chichas.
More information about Laborde Beach.
Source: Le Figaro
