Les Saintes

This irresistible group of islands has a distinct identity shaped by centuries of island life; fishing traditions, French language and culture, and Caribbean rhythms that are entirely their own. They are small, dry, and steep, with red and brown cliffs. Mountains climb to over 1,000 feet, and white beaches abound. After a hard day’s sail, it is bound to be love at first sight.

The only small town, Bourg des Saintes, is on the largest island, Terre d’en Haut. The Saintes have been French since shortly after their colonization and have long supported a small community that once relied almost entirely on fishing. The islands were never major agricultural producers, so the plantation economy that shaped much of the Caribbean took a different form here. There is a strong link to the north of France, especially Brittany, and some years ago, you could see beautiful Breton-style fishing boats all along the waterfront. These islands have always been a predominantly Franco-Caribbean community, shaped by fishing and, increasingly, by tourism.  

Bourg des Saintes is an adorable seaside town, sparkling clean and picturesque, with red roofs and a handful of those older Caribbean buildings that are all balconies and gingerbread. Flowers grow in abundance around the houses, and no one is in a hurry. Local boats are anchored all along the waterfront. 

The local economy runs on tourism, and restaurants, accommodation, bike rentals, and shops line the waterfront and the streets behind it. Many ferries arrive each day from Pointe à Pitre, bringing an influx of day-trippers. The pace changes noticeably when the ferries are in, with a rush hour when they arrive at 0900 and another when they leave at 1700. If you prefer a quieter anchorage, Îlet à Cabrit or Terre d’en Bas are good alternatives.