Saint-François (Guadeloupe) walks

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.

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.

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

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...

A short hike through savannahs, sugarcane fields, Creole gardens and woodland, with a few views of the sea and a brief stretch along the edge of the mangrove.

This trail is not very well known. It is located in the commune of Capesterre-Belle-Eau. It will take you through banana fields before descending to the Sainte-Marie River at a beautiful pool, which you will walk up a little way as it is very pretty, then on to Ravine Zombi. Then, retrace your steps and continue down the river to discover the two Zombi waterfalls, recognisable by the two vertical tree trunks that have been there for years. You can take a much quieter lunch break in front of them.

A short hike in the forest to discover a very pretty waterfall that is ideal for swimming.

A gem in the heart of the tropical forest: two waterfalls and a beautiful pool to discover. This circular route starts with a forest trail. Along the way, you will be immersed in the humid atmosphere and amazed by the majestic trees, the scent of incense, the wild orchids and the epiphytic plants.

This hike takes you along the Moustique River to Moustique Canyon. This beautiful canyon, sculpted by nature, allows you to swim and wade through the water up to its small waterfall. The water is shallow, so adults do not need to swim. You can enjoy the natural surroundings and tranquillity along the river.

This hike will take you into the heart of Guadeloupe's tropical rainforest. The trail leads to the Moreau Falls, where you can swim. Access is prohibited by municipal decree until further notice due to an extremely high risk of rockfalls and mudslides. See here. 

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.

A short hike through the rainforest to admire the last Carbet waterfall, which plunges into a large pool and invites you to take a dip.

A walk through the tropical forest and, after a long effort, you will be rewarded at the foot of the two 100-metre-high waterfalls.

A hike that will amaze you with its cultural, heritage and historical richness, as well as its exceptional flora and fauna. Sketching enthusiasts will be delighted with the panels that help them draw like professionals.