Top 10 Things To Do In Les Saintes Island
Les Saintes Island, a Carribean island group located in the French West Indies, is a paradise of rest and relaxation. The island offers several options for unforgettable sightseeing, watersports, shopping, and dining.
The Carribean island of Les Saintes, actually a group of eight small volcanic islands just six miles south of Guadeloupe in the French West Indies, offers one of the world’s closest glimpses of paradise imaginable. Not a good option for those who enjoy a plethora of attractions, this secluded and pristine island chain is a laid-back and leisurely vacation destination. Although the best thing to do in Les Saintes is to simply relax, the following are ten other options when you’re feeling a little more adventurous.
First, one of the things that Les Saintes is best known for is its cuisine. With fifteen restaurants to choose from, French and Creole dishes are served at a leisurely pace, because it is a firm belief of the islanders that French cuisine is an art form and should not be hurried. Lunch is the prominent meal of the day.
Secondly, Les Saintes lone village, Bourg, offers amazing finds in its art galleries and boutiques. Tourists who are shoppers-at-heart can find one-of-a-kind paintings, clothing, and home decor there.
The third thing to see in Les Saintes is Fort Napoleon, a military fort built over 100 years ago. Ironically, while Fort Napoleon has been put to a great number of uses throughout the past century, war has never been one of them. The fort now houses over 250 original paintings and an amazing blooming cactus garden. Guided tours are offered daily. For 360 degree views of breathtaking Carribbean coastline and a tour of an ancient stone citadel, hike to Le Chameau, Les Saintes’ highest peak. Visiting the 1,014 peak requires a two hour round trip hike, but it’s worth every minute. Islanders recommend taking the hike at sunrise or sunset for a truly unforgettable experience.
Fifth, the serene waters surrounding Les Saintes offer pleasant and fruitful fishing. Catches of the day usually include two of the islands main staples, red snapper and kingfish.
Sixth, Les Saintes Island offers windsurfing rentals and lessons. Whether you are a novice or an expert, friendly islanders can help you have an enjoyable windsurfing session along the island’s jutting coastline.
Seventh, the amazingly clear waters of the bays in and around Les Saintes make for some of the world’s most enchanting and enthralling scuba diving. With 15 different dive sites to choose from and facilities to rent gear or take lessons, anyone can experience the creatures and terrain of the deep. For those visiting the island in August, a two-day festival known as La Fete is a must-see event. On the first day, islanders celebrate the 1666 riddance of British invasion and, on the second day, the Virgin Mary and sailors who have been lost at sea over the years are honored. The festival includes parades, boat blessings, and speeches, as well as wine-tastings and lots of dancing.
Ninth, the village of Bourg houses a cemetery that is over 200 years old. This graveyard is strewn with conch shell headstones to commemorate sailors who have lost their lives to the sea over the years. It is truly a moving site to behold.
Finally, once you’ve have had all the rest and relaxation your mind and body can handle, the hustle and bustle of Guadeloupe’s hub, Pointe-a-Pitre, is just a short 15 minute plane ride away. Pointe-a-Pitre offers nightlife, shopping, dining, golf, museums, an aquarium, and all of the other luxuries of big-city living. After spending a day in all of Pointe-a-Pitre’s hubbub, you’ll no doubt be clamoring to get back to the calm and serenity that is Les Saintes Island.
Author: Shane Weakley
About Author: Jean Weakley is a well-travelled probation clerk who loves to visit and learn about the little-known but vastly interesting places that the world has to offer.