Saint-François (Guadeloupe) walks

A walk on the Pointe des Châteaux, a peninsula to the east of the island of Grande-Terre. At the very tip of the headland, you’ll discover large rock formations where powerful waves crash. Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of Grande-Terre, and even the island of La Désirade on clear days.

A very short and informative walk, suitable for children, in a less crowded area than Pointe des Châteaux, offering superb views of the Atlantic coast of Grande-Terre.

A very easy walk that takes you along the white sandy beaches with the characteristic palm trees of Bois Jolan, the surfing beach of Gros Sable at Helleux with its turquoise sea and the mangrove in the background. A relaxing moment to discover the typical landscapes of Grande Terre: ponds, pools and a beautiful forest area consisting mainly of black mapou trees. Much of the route is shaded.

A very pretty hike that starts at Pointe des Châteaux in Saint-François and follows the coastline to Anse à la Gourde. This coastal trail takes you along several white sandy beaches and offers superb views of Île de la Désirade.

Facing the trade winds, Pointe des Châteaux bears the brunt of the waves that have crossed the Atlantic. It is the western tip of Guadeloupe. This route is more of a short stroll than a real hike.

I suggest a short walk in the countryside on the heights of Sainte-Anne, in the Grands Fonds, which I call Calvaire-Louisiane. A somewhat hidden path where hills and valleys formed by rainwater runoff follow one another. Between the hills, a maze of dirt tracks links the villages. It won’t be circular, but rather a ‘lollipop’ with its stick. It may be slippery and muddy, but it’s often nicely shaded.

I will take you to Le Moule for a hike that starts at Bois Baron (paragliding launch pad) and goes to Anse Maurice. This route along the coast of Grande-Terre is perhaps one of the most beautiful. There are many viewpoints, each more impressive than the last. The view of the coast and the town of Le Moule is magnificent. But it has to be earned, as the route is difficult with climbs and descents, often requiring the use of ropes. We will pass by Anse Archange Neau and the Anse à l'Écu ravine before arriving at Pointe and Anse Sainte-Marguerite, where we will stop in front of the Slave Memorial before reaching Anse Maurice. This is a linear route: leave a car at Anse Maurice if you do not want to make the return trip.

This fairly challenging walk takes you along Petit Havre Bay, keeping you in the shade under the trees whilst offering views at certain points. It’s an excellent way to keep fit.

A marked trail created by the local council through the mangroves and savannahs of Guadeloupe between the famous Babin Beach and the town of Vieux-Bourg, Morne-à-l'eau. Animals, shells and palm trees add to the charm of this walk.

In the land of sugar cane, a very short walk through dry woodland, featuring a few majestic trees, a lovely pond and the ruins of a mill that once belonged to a former sugar estate.

A trail runs along the coastal cliffs, offering views of blowholes: geyser-like formations created by the waves and holes in the rocks.

A pleasant walk between the sea and the mangroves in an idyllic setting. The sea is like a lake as you are near the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin. The path leads to several lovely little beaches. Mangroves are present throughout the route, along with other tropical species. Upon arrival on the other side of Pointe Sable de Bar, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the former Beautiran sugar cane loading port and the Petit-Canal dock. A long but easy walk.

An easy walk amongst mango trees and sugarcane fields, near Pointe-à-Pitre, in the centre of Guadeloupe. A favourite spot for joggers, cyclists and walkers who prefer to stick to the only tarmac road. Our route avoids this road and favours the quieter sugarcane farm tracks. There are plenty of views of the large marine cove.

This hike offers the opportunity to explore a fascinating wetland environment, the mangrove, via a partially developed trail that requires a good sense of direction. It is complemented by a coastal route with several opportunities for swimming and lends itself to several variations, including one that avoids the mangrove...

In Capesterre, a site that is not yet well known but is so original, waterfalls cascade onto the black sand beach that glistens in the sun. There is spectacular access along a cliff on a narrow path, but don't panic if you're afraid of heights, as it is possible to go around the other side, which is like a canyon equipped with ropes. The place is magnificent.