Located just 10nm southwest of the “mainland” of Guadeloupe, Les Saintes are a small group of islands with a fantastic atmosphere. The interior of the islands forms a large bay, dotted with sandy beaches and small alcoves with mooring buoys for visiting boats. The main town of Terre-de-Haut rings the waterfront and climbs gently up the volcanic terrain.
Oso anchored in the deep water just outside the mooring field off the uninhabited Ilet a Cabrit. With the tall island perfectly situated to intercept the ever-present easterly chop generated by the trade winds, the anchorage featured flat water, a steady cooling breeze, and the distant bleating of the resident wild goats in the quiet evenings.
Some visitors arrive as part of a ferry daytrip from Guadeloupe, but many arrive by sailboat. So there’s a large and well-maintained dinghy dock, and none of the delicious French/Creole restaurants seemed to look askance at sandy feet or the decidedly down-market fashion choices of the sailors.
Before arriving, we’d heard from several folks that Les Saintes ranked as a favorite destination. After spending a few days relaxing, exploring, and enjoying the company of friends, we can fully agree.
