Terre de Haut

Terre-de-Haut : a military heritage in the bay of Saintes

The history of Terre-de-Haut is marked by French and Breton influences, which shaped the island’s culture and architecture. Founded in the 17th century by French settlers, it was long a strategic post for the defense of Guadeloupe. The Fort Napoléon, built in the 19th century, bears witness to this military period. Terre-de-Haut has preserved its heritage and traditions, notably in fishing and crafts. Today, the island is a symbol of Creole hospitality and maintains an authentic way of life despite its tourist influx.

Terre-de-Haut is the most visited of the Saintes islands, renowned for the bay of Saintes, ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world. This natural jewel is characterized by its clear waters, rocky peaks, and colorful fishing boats. The ferry approach from Trois-Rivières or Pointe-à-Pitre is itself an unforgettable experience, with the bay gradually unveiling. Terre-de-Haut owes its name to the fact that it is located “upwind” compared to its neighbor, Terre-de-Bas.

The main village, where most visitors disembark, stands out with its colorful Creole houses and craft shops offering madras items, jewelry inspired by local culture, and of course the famous “tourments d’amour,” small coconut-filled cakes. The inhabitants, called “Saintois,” are proud of their island identity, long preserved thanks to the archipelago’s relative isolation. An unusual anecdote: the omnipresence of scooters and electric carts, which are the preferred means of transport on the island, adding to the picturesque charm of the place.

Terre-de-Haut also has a rich military history. The Fort Napoléon, perched on a height, offers an exceptional panorama of the bay and houses a museum recounting the archipelago’s history, notably the famous battle of the Saintes in 1782. The fort gardens are arranged as a botanical park, showcasing local flora and providing refuge to many iguanas.

By the sea, Terre-de-Haut delights divers and water sports enthusiasts: snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, or simply swimming in crystalline waters. Beaches such as the Pompierre beach are ideal for relaxation under coconut trees. Seaside restaurants offer specialties based on fresh fish, lobster, or conch, accompanied by a Creole sauce chien or spicy colombo.

Every year, the island livens up during its patron saint festivals and cultural events, where gwo ka music and zouk echo through the alleys. Despite the tourist influx, the Saintois remain committed to the preservation of their environment and the transmission of their traditions. Thus, Terre-de-Haut embodies the successful alliance between historical heritage, postcard landscapes, and island lifestyle, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Caribbean.

Urban planning

The village of Terre-de-Haut is a mix of colorful Creole houses, picturesque alleys, and flowered gardens. The town’s urban planning respects its natural setting and identity, with houses extending harmoniously along the coast and hills. Most shops, restaurants, and services are located near the port, creating a lively center where visitors can discover local life. Terre-de-Haut also offers small hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts to accommodate travelers while preserving its island charm.

Geography of the commune of Terre-de-Haut

Terre-de-Haut is a hilly island with an area of about 6 km². Its relief consists of lush hills, including Le Chameau, the island’s highest point at 309 meters, offering spectacular views over the archipelago and the Caribbean Sea. The famous bay of Saintes, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful bays, is surrounded by idyllic beaches such as Pompierre beach and Grande-Anse. The turquoise waters of Terre-de-Haut are ideal for swimming, diving, and snorkeling, allowing visitors to discover an exceptional marine biodiversity.

Economic activities

The economy of Terre-de-Haut mainly relies on tourism, fishing, and crafts. Tourism is a key sector, with a high influx of visitors attracted by the beaches, historical sites, and water activities. Artisanal fishing is a traditional activity, and fresh fish is offered in local restaurants. Crafts, including the making of "saintoises" (typical small island boats) in model form, also form part of the commune’s economic and cultural life. Shops, guesthouses, and tourist activities contribute largely to the local economy.

Neighboring communes and area

Terre-de-Haut is part of the Saintes archipelago, located south of Guadeloupe, and lies near Terre-de-Bas, the second inhabited island of the Saintes. With an area of 6 km², Terre-de-Haut is relatively small but offers a great diversity of landscapes, between beaches, hills, and historical sites. The commune is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, making it an ideal destination for water activities and excursions.

Access and distances to other cities

Terre-de-Haut is accessible by boat from Trois-Rivières in mainland Guadeloupe, with crossings of about 30 minutes. Regular maritime connections are also available from Pointe-à-Pitre. The port of Terre-de-Haut welcomes daily ferries transporting travelers and goods, facilitating exchanges with Guadeloupe. This proximity to the mainland allows visitors to make day trips or stay longer to explore the island.

Real estate trends in the town

The real estate market in Terre-de-Haut is attractive due to high demand for second homes and seasonal rentals. The average price per square meter is around 4,000 euros, and properties close to the bay or with sea views are especially sought after. Creole houses and seaside villas are favored by investors and individuals looking for a peaceful living environment and exceptional natural beauty.

Politics

The current mayor of Terre-de-Haut, Mr. Louis Molinié, implements projects to promote sustainable development, preserve natural resources, and enhance local heritage. The municipality encourages initiatives to protect beaches and sensitive marine areas, while supporting ecotourism and environmentally friendly activities. Efforts are also made to modernize infrastructure and meet the growing needs of visitors without compromising the island’s authenticity and tranquility.

Must-see places and monuments of Terre-de-Haut

Terre-de-Haut abounds with natural and historical sites. Fort Napoléon is a must-see for its history and botanical gardens, which host unique local flora. This fort offers panoramic views over the bay of Saintes and the archipelago, making it a favorite site for visitors. Pompierre beach, protected by a natural rock barrier, is a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. The Notre-Dame de l'Assomption church, located in the heart of the village, is an example of colonial architecture and a central point for religious festivals. The surrounding islets, such as îlet à Cabrit, are also accessible for excursions and dives.

Cultural events

The cultural life of Terre-de-Haut is lively with traditional events and popular festivals. The patron saint festival, celebrated in honor of Notre-Dame de l'Assomption, is a major event of the year, with religious processions, activities, and Creole music concerts. Carnival is another important event, where inhabitants parade in colorful costumes and dance to the sound of drums and traditional songs. The regatta of Saintoises, a competition of local sailboats, is also a highly anticipated event, celebrating the island’s maritime traditions. These festivities strengthen the bond of inhabitants with their culture and offer visitors an immersion into the warm atmosphere of Terre-de-Haut.