Les Saintes, a small archipelago south of Guadeloupe, is undoubtedly one of the best-preserved jewels in the Caribbean. With their heavenly beaches, turquoise waters, typical villages and peaceful atmosphere, these islands are ideal for an authentic, upscale getaway. Whether you’re staying for a day or a week, here’s the ultimate guide to making the most of Les Saintes, with our practical advice, must-see places and carefully selected luxury villas.
1. How to get to Les Saintes
Located south of Basse-Terre and west of Marie-Galante, Les Saintes comprises 9 islands, two of which are inhabited: Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas.
By ferry (recommended)
Boat crossings are the easiest and most economical way to travel:
– From Trois-Rivières (fastest) :
– Duration: approx. 20 minutes
– Price: ~€23 round trip/adult
– Frequent departures
– Companies: CTM Deher, Val’Ferry
– From Pointe-à-Pitre:
– Duration: 1h15 to 2h
– Price: ~35 to 45€ round trip
– Convenient if you’re landing at the airport
– From Saint-François:
– Duration: ~2h
– Price: ~€40 to €45
– A longer but very scenic route
Tip: the Trois-Rivières → Terre-de-Haut route is the fastest and most comfortable. We can organize your private transfer or VIP service on request.
2. Terre-de-Haut vs Terre-de-Bas: which one to choose?
– Terre-de-Haut: lively, colorful and charming, this is the main island with its beaches, picturesque harbor, restaurants and most of the luxury villas.
– Terre-de-Bas: wilder and more authentic, perfect for a day’s hiking or for those seeking total disconnection.
3. How to get around
– No cars allowed except for residents
– Scooters and bicycles: very popular rentals
– Electric buggies: ideal for families, fun and practical
– On foot: feasible in the town center, less practical for trips outside the town center
Recommendation: Archipel Location. We can book for you in advance.
4. What to do in Les Saintes
🏰 Visit Fort Napoléon
At 114 m altitude, spectacular views over the bay (ranked among the most beautiful in the world). A fascinating museum, colonial history, local flora… not to be missed.
🏖️ Enjoy the most beautiful beaches
– Pompierre: ideal for families
– Pain de Sucre: for snorkeling
– Anse Crawen: wild and romantic
– Anse Mire: perfect for sunsets
🐠 Diving and snorkeling
– Popular spots: Sec Paté, Les Augustins, Le Paté
– Recommended clubs: La Dive Bouteille, Pisquettes Plongée
🍽️ Eating locally
– La Case aux Épices: refined Creole fusion cuisine
– Ti Kaz’ La: seaside chic
– Le Génois: ideal for lunchtime with sea view
– Case à man Albè: authentic, generous cuisine
🌴 Nature & hiking
– Le Chameau: the summit of Terre-de-Haut with a 360° panorama
– Protected dry forests: for nature lovers to explore
⛵ Nautical excursions
– Private tours around the islands
– Sunset boat trips
– Day trip to Terre-de-Bas or Marie-Galante
🛍️ Local shopping
– Handicrafts, jewelry, rums, spices, designer objects.
5. Where to stay: our luxury villas in Les Saintes
For an exclusive stay, our private villas with hotel services offer an unrivalled experience: sea view, private pool, concierge service, local architecture.
🏡 Villa Paradise Bay
– Breathtaking view of the bay
– 3 to 6 bedrooms with bathrooms
– Infinity pool
– Services: private chef, massage, boat, transfers
Our villas combine the comfort of a private home with the service of a 5-star hotel.
We also offer other villas in Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas, depending on your requirements and type of stay.
6. Practical tips
– Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially at weekends
– Bring cash, few credit cards accepted
– Bring good shoes to explore
– Prefer early or late visits to avoid the crowds
– Perfect combination: Les Saintes + Basse-Terre or Marie-Galante
Conclusion
Les Saintes is an ideal destination for travelers in search of discreet luxury, authenticity and breathtaking scenery. From Fort Napoléon to the seabed and our exceptional villas, every moment is an enchanted interlude.
Dreaming of a personalized stay in Les Saintes? Contact us to reserve your prestigious villa and create a tailor-made holiday.
