The French pearls of the Antilles
Begin with a comprehensive exploration of the paradise islands of Guadeloupe before exploring the natural beauty of Martinique by rental car. Meet the sophisticated symbiosis of French elegance and Caribbean passion, and embark on an adventure where the smell of fresh croissants mingles with the aromas of spicy Creole markets. Between verdant rainforests and crystal-clear bays, you will discover why these islands are called the pearls of the Antilles. Where the world can't find you....
Butterfly Island Guadeloupe
Your adventure starts on multi-faceted Guadeloupe, a cluster of islands shaped like a butterfly when viewed from above. On Grande-Terre, enjoy languid days on snow-white beaches and azure waters. Rugged and mountainous Basse-Terre lends itself to hiking through lush jungle and climbing volcano La Soufrière. For endless beaches, snorkeling, diving and other water sports, divert to the virgin Îles des Saintes. A visit to the rum houses on authentic Marie-Galante gives an insight into the production of rhum agricole for which it is famous.
L'Île des Fleurs Martinique
Next, alight on flower-covered Martinique. It is known as "the French capital of the Tropics," where the"art de vivre" is felt even more strongly. Take a road trip along the coast, past fishing villages and banana plantations, and follow panoramic routes between north and south. In the north, the impressive Mont Pelée and the historic ruins of Saint-Pierre await. In the south, the beach of Sainte-Luce beckons with its local charm and the bay of Les Anses-d'Arlet where you can snorkel with turtles.
Tips and tops from combination trip Guadeloupe and Martinique:
- Your days in Guadeloupe will be spent on Grand Terre at Toubana Hôtel and Spa, the perfect base for trips to the various islands
- The majestic La Grande Soufriere Volcano is the highest mountain peak in the Lesser Antilles, at 1,467 meters (1,763 feet).
- On Basse-Terre, look for the rare Guadeloupe raccoon and spot the most colorful tropical birds such as the iconic hummingbird
- Experience an unforgettable sunset from a catamaran along the north coast of Basse-Terre
- Rum Island Marie-Galante is lined with beautiful sprawling sugar cane plantations
- On Îles des Saintes, taste the typical sweet tart Tourment D'Amour
- Fort-de-France is Martinique's cultural heart where the Schoelcher Library, colorful markets and colonial architecture vie for attention
- Go kayaking through the mangroves of Génipa Bay; it acts as a nursery for the marine ecosystem and provides a habitat for various bird species, crabs and fish
- For a gastronomic experience, book a table at the acclaimed Miza in Fort-de-France or the excellent Le M in Saint Anne
- Visit the various rum houses scattered around the island; Neisson, for example,a small, independent distillery renowned worldwide for its white rums
- FRENCH COCO offers a great anchorage on the Atlantic coast; for more southerly accommodation on the Caribbean Sea, take up residence at La Suite Villa in Trois-Îlets or Apolline in Fort-de-France
