Bain des Amours
Le Bain des Amours, located in the town of Gourbeyre in Guadeloupe, is an enchanting place that captivates visitors with both its history and its exceptional natural setting. Formerly known as "Bassin Capès," this pool was designed in the shape of a heart, symbolizing love and romance, hence its current name.
A romantic gem in Guadeloupe
The Bain des Amours is located on the island of Basse-Terre, in the commune of Gourbeyre, in southern Guadeloupe. Situated along departmental road D7, between Gourbeyre and Trois-Rivières, it is easily accessible by car. A small parking area is available nearby, making it easy for visitors to park. From the parking lot, a dirt path leads to the pool in about a 10-minute walk, with a concrete staircase providing easier access.
The Bain des Amours is a stone-built pool, notable for its heart shape, giving the site a romantic atmosphere. Fed by a natural hot spring originating from the geothermal activity of the Soufrière volcano, the water maintains a pleasant temperature of around 34°C year-round.
Shallow in depth, the pool is equipped with an inner ledge where bathers can sit comfortably. A wooden deck surrounds the pool, offering a space to leave personal belongings and making access easier for visitors. Its heart-shaped design, a unique feature symbolizing love and romance, gives the site its current name, though it was formerly known as “Bassin Capès.” This natural pool was enhanced by the commune to highlight its romantic appeal, especially through its distinctive shape.
It is fed by a natural hot spring, with a consistent temperature of 34°C, originating from the geothermal activity of the Soufrière volcano. This thermal water is known for its relaxing and soothing properties.
The shallow pool is surrounded by a wooden terrace, providing comfortable access and a practical area for visitors to place their belongings. Nestled in the heart of dense tropical vegetation, the Bain des Amours offers an intimate and peaceful setting—perfect for relaxation and reconnecting with nature.
Originally, the site was a natural basin used to collect water from the volcano, known as “Bassin Capès.” The commune of Gourbeyre carried out improvements to transform it into an attractive destination for visitors, reshaping it into a heart and enhancing the surroundings with a wooden deck.
The Bain des Amours is set amid lush tropical vegetation, creating a peaceful natural environment. The area around the pool is filled with banana trees and other typical regional plant species, providing a serene and intimate atmosphere for visitors.
Activities and points of interest
The main attraction of the Bain des Amours is bathing in its natural thermal waters, offering a unique relaxation experience. The warm water provides a soothing sense of well-being—ideal after a hike or a day of exploration.
The site can become busy during peak times, so it’s best to visit during quieter hours to fully enjoy its peaceful setting.
Practical tips
For the best experience at the Bain des Amours, it is recommended to visit on weekdays, early in the morning or later in the day, to avoid crowds. While the pool is cleaned regularly, visitors are encouraged to respect the site by leaving no litter behind. Access to the pool is via a dirt path and a concrete staircase, so wearing appropriate footwear is advised, especially after recent rainfall, as the path may be slippery.
FAQ
Is access to the Bain des Amours free ? Yes, access to the Bain des Amours is free and open to all visitors.
What is the water temperature ? The pool maintains a steady temperature of around 34°C, thanks to the geothermal activity of the Soufrière volcano.
Can you picnic on-site ? Yes, there are natural areas around the pool where you can enjoy a picnic, provided you respect the environment and leave no trash behind.
Is the site accessible to people with reduced mobility ? Access to the pool involves a dirt path and a concrete staircase, which can make it challenging for people with reduced mobility.