Capesterre
Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante, located on the southeast coast of the island of Marie-Galante, is a town renowned for its idyllic beaches, impressive cliffs, and peaceful countryside landscapes. With a population of around 3,500, Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante is a haven of peace, where agriculture and rural traditions are deeply rooted. This idyllic destination attracts visitors seeking tranquility and cultural discovery, thanks to its rum distilleries, historical sites, and outdoor activities.
The seaside authenticity of the “grande galette”
Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante was founded in the 17th century by French settlers who developed an agricultural economy based on sugarcane cultivation. The town played an important role in the history of Guadeloupe, notably with the establishment of sugar mills and distilleries that testify to its colonial past. After the abolition of slavery in 1848, the town continued its agricultural activity, diversifying its crops and preserving its rum production heritage. Today, it is proud of its heritage and highlights its history through its historic sites and local crafts.
Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante is one of the three communes on the peaceful island of Marie-Galante, often nicknamed “la Grande Galette” due to its rounded shape and relatively flat terrain. Unlike Capesterre-Belle-Eau on Basse-Terre, this Capesterre is especially known for its white sandy beaches and preserved coastline. Among these beaches, la Feuillère is particularly popular with kitesurfers and windsurfers because of its steady trade winds and clear lagoon.
Historically, Marie-Galante was an important producer of sugar and rum. The distilleries, still active or in ruins, bear witness to this industrial past. In Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante, the presence of mills, remnants from the sugar era, is a strong marker of local identity. A local anecdote relates that the island once had more than 600 windmills in the 19th century, earning it the nickname “island of a hundred mills.” Some of these buildings have been restored and are open to visitors, allowing a dive into the sugar history of the archipelago.
The town today mainly lives on gentle tourism and still very artisanal agriculture. Sugarcane, cassava are cultivated, and cattle and pig farming is practiced using traditional methods. The inhabitants cherish a rural way of life, based on conviviality, gwo ka music, and respect for the surrounding nature. It is not uncommon for local music groups to gather on the beach on weekends for impromptu acoustic sessions, creating a warm and authentic atmosphere.
Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante also organizes several annual festivals, including the patronal feast and some thematic events related to rum and sugarcane. During these celebrations, culinary specialties like “bébélé,” a traditional stew prepared with tripe, local vegetables, and spices, can be enjoyed. Finally, the commune stands out for its commitment to environmental preservation: many eco-friendly initiatives have emerged, such as selective waste collection, protection of sensitive coastal areas, and promotion of permaculture. Thus, Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante distinguishes itself by its gentle lifestyle, sugar heritage, and desire to preserve the island’s natural beauty.
Urbanism
The village of Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante is characterized by colorful Creole houses, picturesque alleys, and small shops. The town’s urbanism fits perfectly into its natural environment, with scattered houses along the coast and vast sugarcane fields stretching as far as the eye can see. The town offers a peaceful living environment, far from the bustle of big cities, with discreet tourist facilities that preserve its authenticity and rural charm.
Geography of Capesterre
Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante enjoys exceptional geography, between white sandy beaches, spectacular cliffs, and lush countryside. La Feuillère beach is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and lagoons ideal for swimming and water sports, such as kitesurfing. The cliffs of Gueule Grand Gouffre offer an impressive panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean. The town’s tropical climate, warm and sunny year-round, favors lush vegetation, perfect for agriculture and visitors seeking nature.
Economic activities
Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante’s economy is mainly based on agriculture, rum production, and tourism. Sugarcane cultivation is a key activity, especially to supply local distilleries producing renowned rums, such as the Bellevue distillery. Tourism develops thanks to the paradisiacal beaches and natural sites in the region, attracting visitors seeking ecotourism and relaxation. The local market, where artisanal products and local specialties can be discovered, also contributes to the town’s economy.
Neighboring communes and area
Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante is one of the three communes on Marie-Galante island, alongside Grand-Bourg and Saint-Louis. It covers an area of 46 km², offering a varied landscape between beaches, cliffs, and agricultural zones. Its location on the southeast coast provides direct access to the island’s best beaches and makes it a prime place for water activities and nature exploration.
Access and distances from other towns
Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante is located about 15 km from Grand-Bourg, the main town of Marie-Galante, where the port connecting the island to Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe is located. The town is accessible via local roads connecting the different localities of Marie-Galante. Regular maritime connections between Marie-Galante and Guadeloupe facilitate travel for residents and visitors.
Real estate trends in the town
The real estate market in Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante is relatively stable, with increased demand for second homes and vacation rentals by the sea. The average price per square meter is around 2,000 euros, an attractive rate for individuals and investors seeking an exceptional natural setting. Properties near beaches and tourist sites are particularly sought after for their rental potential and unique charm.
Politics
The current mayor of Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante, Mr. Jean-Claude Maes, leads projects focused on sustainable development, environmental preservation, and local heritage promotion. The municipality encourages ecotourism development by highlighting the town’s natural and cultural assets while protecting natural resources. The town hall also supports local initiatives aimed at promoting agriculture and craftsmanship, contributing to the town’s economy and residents’ well-being.
Must-see places and monuments in Capesterre
Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante is rich in natural and historic sites. The plage de la Feuillère, with its fine sand and turquoise waters, is a must-visit spot for swimming and water sports. The cliffs of Gueule Grand Gouffre, formed by erosion, offer an impressive natural spectacle and are ideal for photography enthusiasts. The distillerie Bellevue, one of the oldest on the island, is an emblematic place to discover rum production and taste local products. The Moulin de Bézard, a restored windmill, bears witness to the town’s agricultural history and allows visitors to dive into Marie-Galante’s sugar past.
Cultural events
Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante’s cultural life is punctuated by traditional events and popular festivals. The patronal feast, celebrated in honor of Saint-Henri, brings residents together for religious ceremonies, Creole music concerts, and family activities. The Terre de Blues festival, held every year, is a major event for music lovers, attracting artists from the Caribbean and beyond. The carnival is also highly anticipated, with colorful parades and dances to the sound of drums and Guadeloupean rhythms. These events strengthen Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante’s cultural identity and create a warm, festive atmosphere.