Les Abymes is a beautiful city located in the Guadeloupe department of France. Situated on the island of Grande-Terre, it offers a diverse range of attractions, natural wonders, and cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best places and things to do in Les Abymes:
Just a short distance away from Les Abymes, Pointe-à-Pitre is the largest city in Guadeloupe and offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and shopping. Explore the colorful markets, such as Marché Saint-Antoine and Marché de la Darse, to experience the local flavors, fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts.
If you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach, head to Plage de la Datcha. This picturesque sandy beach is located in Gosier, close to Les Abymes. Enjoy the crystal-clear turquoise waters, sunbathe on the soft sand, and indulge in various water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
Escape to the beautiful Domaine de Valombreuse, a lush botanical garden located in Petit-Bourg, near Les Abymes. This tropical paradise offers scenic walking trails, exotic plant species, waterfalls, and a zoo where you can encounter local wildlife. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the delicious Creole cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
Discover the historical significance of Les Abymes by visiting Fort Fleur d’Épée. This 18th-century fort is located in Le Gosier and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Take a guided tour to learn about the fort’s history and explore the barracks, canons, and exhibitions showcasing Guadeloupe’s colonial past.
Located in Pointe-à-Pitre, the Memorial ACTe is a museum dedicated to the memory and history of the slave trade in Guadeloupe and the Caribbean. This thought-provoking museum offers interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and archival materials that shed light on the impact of slavery on the region’s culture and identity.
Indulge in the flavors of Guadeloupean cuisine at La Maison du Crabe. This renowned seafood restaurant is situated in Le Gosier, and it specializes in delicious crab dishes prepared with local spices and ingredients. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor their signature crab gratin, a true culinary delight.
For nature lovers, a visit to Cascade aux Écrevisses is a must. Located in Capesterre-Belle-Eau, this stunning waterfall offers a refreshing retreat from the heat. Take a dip in the natural pools, surrounded by lush vegetation, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this hidden gem.
Another breathtaking beach near Les Abymes is Plage de la Caravelle. Located in Sainte-Anne, this white sandy beach is known for its calm, turquoise waters and coconut palm trees. Relax under the shade, go for a swim, or take a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Explore the charming town of Le Moule, located on the eastern coast of Grande-Terre, near Les Abymes. Stroll through the town’s colorful streets, visit the local market, and admire the colonial architecture. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Edgar Clerc Museum, which showcases the region’s history, culture, and art.
If you’re seeking a tranquil and less crowded beach experience, head to Plage de Bois Jolan. This hidden gem, situated near Sainte-Anne, offers pristine white sands, calm waters, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Guadeloupe.
Discover the rich heritage of rum production in Guadeloupe by visiting the Rhum Damoiseau Distillery. Located in Le Moule, this family-owned distillery offers guided tours where you can learn about the rum-making process and sample a variety of locally-produced rums.
Dive into the history of slavery by visiting Les Marches de l’Esclavage (The Steps of Slavery). Located in Pointe-à-Pitre, this historical site consists of a staircase with plaques detailing significant events related to slavery. It serves as a powerful reminder of Guadeloupe’s past and the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality.
Embark on a unique wildlife adventure at Parc des Mamelles, an ecological park located in Bouillante. This nature reserve is home to various animal species, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and colorful birds. Explore the park’s trails, visit the treetop walkways, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Guadeloupe’s lush rainforest.
Experience the beauty of Guadeloupe’s mangroves by embarking on a kayaking tour. Several operators offer guided tours in the mangrove forests, where you can paddle through winding channels, observe diverse marine life, and learn about the importance of mangroves to the ecosystem.
Don’t leave Les Abymes without savoring the local cuisine. Indulge in mouthwatering Creole dishes like accras (deep-fried codfish fritters), boudin (blood sausage), and colombo (a flavorful curry dish). Visit local eateries and food stalls to taste the authentic flavors of Guadeloupean cuisine.
Take a boat tour to the Gosier Islet (Îlet du Gosier), a small uninhabited island located off the coast of Le Gosier. Enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving in the clear waters surrounding the islet, where you can spot colorful fish, coral reefs, and even sea turtles. Relax on the pristine beaches and soak up the sun in this idyllic tropical setting.
Venture to Basse-Terre, the western part of Guadeloupe, and discover Les Chutes du Carbet, a series of stunning waterfalls nestled in the rainforest. The highest waterfall, Cascade du Carbet, stands at an impressive 115 meters (377 feet). Hike along the trails, marvel at the cascading waters, and bask in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Explore the town of Saint-François, located on the southeastern coast of Grande-Terre. This picturesque town offers a marina, a golf course, and beautiful beaches like Anse des Rochers and Plage des Raisins Clairs. Enjoy water sports such as windsurfing or kiteboarding, or simply unwind on the sandy shores.
For the adventurous souls, a hike up La Soufrière, an active volcano on Basse-Terre, is a thrilling experience. Although challenging, reaching the summit rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into the volcanic landscape. Make sure to check the volcano’s activity and safety guidelines before attempting the ascent.
Guadeloupe is renowned for its rum production, and visiting a local distillery for rum tastings is a must. Experience the flavors and craftsmanship of Guadeloupean rum by visiting distilleries such as Damoiseau, Longueteau, or Bellevue. Learn about the rum-making process, sample different varieties, and perhaps even purchase a bottle to bring home as a souvenir.
