5 Recommended Tourist Spots on the French Island of Guadeloupe in the Caribbean

There are various islands scattered across the Caribbean, and among them is Guadeloupe, a French overseas region. Guadeloupe is actually the name for two main islands, Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre. On the map, Guadeloupe is shaped like a butterfly.
The island is full of attractive tourist spots, including blue seas, white sandy beaches, delicious Creole cuisine, botanical gardens, and more. In this article, we will introduce five must-see tourist spots in the French overseas region of Guadeloupe.

1. Rum Museum

Whether you're a fan of alcohol or not, many people associate Guadeloupe with rum. You'll be amazed by the variety of rum-based cocktails at hotels across the island. Therefore, the Rum Museum is a must-visit spot when you're in Guadeloupe.
Rum produced in Guadeloupe is made from locally grown sugarcane, and it's one of the island's specialties. In this museum, you can learn about the entire production process, from distilling to bottling. Of course, there are tastings of rum-based drinks as well. After tasting, you can get advice and choose a bottle that suits your taste from the many varieties on display. In addition to the rum exhibits, the museum also features a collection of over 5,000 rare insects and more than 40 models of sailing ships, making it a family-friendly spot where even children who can't drink alcohol can enjoy themselves.

2. Murat Castle

Murat Castle is located not on the main island of Guadeloupe, but on the island of Marie-Galante. While the name might suggest a grand and luxurious castle, it's actually the remnants of the mansion owned by the Murat family, French aristocrats who were major landowners during the sugarcane industry's boom. Visitors can tour about 30 buildings.
You can see small buildings where slaves once lived, the ruins of sugar mills, and the home of the landowners, all of which give insight into life during that era. There’s also a museum-like space where you can learn about the daily lives of the island’s people, with displays of fishing tools, craftsmen's tools, and household items. Visiting Murat Castle offers a deep look into the history and life of Guadeloupe. As you stand in front of the weathered walls, with the brilliant blue sky behind them, you may feel as though time has stood still.

3. Pointe des Châteaux Peninsula

The Pointe des Châteaux Peninsula in Guadeloupe doesn't actually have a castle. The name originates from a small church called "Château" built there in 1683. Perhaps due to this origin, a large 10-meter cross stands at the tip of the peninsula.
Located at the tip of the "wings" of the butterfly-shaped island, the view from this peninsula is stunning. You can see surrounding islands, and if you're lucky in the spring, you might even spot whales. A must-see when visiting Guadeloupe. Be sure to see the breathtaking cobalt blue sea of the Caribbean with your own eyes.

4. Carbet Falls

The Carbet River, flowing through Guadeloupe National Park, is home to three beautiful waterfalls. How about hiking through lush green landscapes to explore these waterfalls, which offer a completely different view from the beaches? However, due to safety reasons, one of the three waterfalls is currently closed to tourists, so only two of them are accessible.
The first waterfall has a height of 115 meters and is made up of two tiers. The second waterfall drops 110 meters. The path to the waterfalls is surrounded by wild, stunning scenery, though the terrain can sometimes be rough. It’s recommended to check the trail conditions before heading out. According to historical records, when Christopher Columbus landed on Guadeloupe Island in November 1493, he discovered the second of the three Carbet Falls. Experience the power of nature at these historically significant waterfalls.

5. Deshaies Botanical Garden

At the Deshaies Botanical Garden, you can see not only the vibrant flowers found on the Caribbean islands, but also various types of palm trees, tropical plants, desert plants, and over 1,000 species of plants, including Asian water lilies. Along the 1.5 km walking path, you’ll find waterfalls, flamingos, and colorful parrots, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a paradise.
The garden’s restaurant is another highlight, offering Creole cuisine while you enjoy a view of the waterfalls and the Caribbean Sea.

Summary

With its beautiful beaches, nature-filled waterfalls, delicious food and drinks, and colorful flowers, there are many more wonderful tourist spots that we couldn’t cover here. People on the streets greet you with a cheerful "Bonjour" and, due to the warm climate, their greetings seem even more lively than in mainland France. Why not visit Guadeloupe for a French Caribbean getaway?

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5 Recommended Tourist Spots on the French Island of Guadeloupe in the Caribbean