Things to do — Grande-Terre

Grande-Terre is discovered by zones, ideally devoting one day to each emblematic sector.

Pointe-à-Pitre and Creole culture: start early at the Saint-Antoine market (before 9 am, maximum animation) — spices, exotic fruits (soursop, passion fruit, rambutans), flowers, vendors in traditional madras. Continue to Place de la Victoire (historic heart) and the merchants' quarter. The ACTe Memorial is essential (€15 entry, 2-3h visit, closed Monday). Lunch on the Darse or in the Bergevin quarter (popular lolos).

The Riviera Sud — Sainte-Anne and Saint-François: it's the seaside heart of Grande-Terre. Caravelle Beach (Sainte-Anne, free access on the east side, Club Med access on the west side) is the most iconic — white sand, perfect lagoon, coconut palms. The Sainte-Anne village has its traditional market (morning), a pretty Creole church and many lolos. 15 km east, Saint-François is a smarter resort — marina, international golf course (Robert Trent Jones, 18 holes), gourmet restaurants, departure for Petite-Terre and La Désirade excursions.

Pointe des Châteaux and wild beaches: 10 km east of Saint-François, the far eastern point of Grande-Terre forms a rocky cape battered by the Atlantic, topped with a monumental cross. Panoramic view over La Désirade, Petite-Terre and Marie-Galante. Nearby, Anse à la Gourde (long golden beach), Anse Tarare (wild and naturist, access by small path) and Anse Kahouanne deserve a stop. Allow minimum half a day.

The north coast — Le Moule, Pointe de la Grande Vigie: Le Moule is famous for its Damoiseau distillery, the largest in Guadeloupe (free tour with tasting, open daily except Sunday). Its Autre Bord beach is a recognised surfing spot. 30 km north, Pointe de la Grande Vigie is the northernmost point of the archipelago — 80 m cliffs, discovery trail, view of Antigua on a clear day.