Vieux-Habitants

Vieux-habitants : the cradle of guadeloupean coffee

Vieux-Habitants was founded by the first French settlers in the 17th century because of the fertility of its volcanic soils, ideal for agriculture. It quickly became a center for coffee and cocoa cultivation, largely thanks to plantations established in its mountains. The abolition of slavery in 1848 marked a turning point in the commune’s history, which managed to preserve its agricultural character while promoting its heritage. Today, Vieux-Habitants takes pride in its history and highlights its traditions, especially in coffee production.

Vieux-Habitants is the oldest commune in Guadeloupe, as its name refers to the first French settlers established there since the 17th century. Located on the southwest coast of Basse-Terre, it is crossed by numerous rivers and features steep terrain favorable for agriculture. Vieux-Habitants is considered the cradle of coffee in Guadeloupe: the Caféière Beauséjour and the Maison du Café tell the story of this production, from its introduction to its rise. An anecdote notes that in the 18th century, Guadeloupean coffee was particularly prized in Europe for its finesse and strong aroma.

The commune is also rich in architectural heritage. The Saint-Joseph church, one of the oldest on the island, has been rebuilt several times after cyclones and earthquakes but retains a historic charm. Some sugar plantations bear witness to the era of slavery and past agricultural prosperity, although many are now ruins or transformed into guesthouses and museums. Remains of water and windmills still dot the landscape, recalling the essential role of sugarcane in the local economy.

Vieux-Habitants also stands out for its exceptional natural setting. The heights of the commune offer sublime views of the Caribbean Sea, and the proximity to the Soufrière volcano allows exploration of dense tropical rainforest areas. Hiking enthusiasts can discover trails leading to hidden waterfalls and natural pools for cooling off. The beaches, often made of black volcanic sand, are quieter than those of Grande-Terre but no less charming.

Culturally, Vieux-Habitants cultivates an authentic art of living, exemplified by the coffee festival or the patronal feast, where gwo ka music echoes through the streets. The local producers’ markets showcase fruits, vegetables, and spices, as well as cassava and cocoa-based preparations.

Some farmers are turning to agroforestry, mixing coffee, cocoa, and banana plants to promote biodiversity. Ultimately, Vieux-Habitants embodies the subtle charm of Basse-Terre, blending colonial heritage, lush nature, and traditions deeply rooted in residents’ daily lives. It is a must-visit place to understand Guadeloupe’s agricultural origins and appreciate the richness of its terroir.

Urbanism

The village of Vieux-Habitants consists of small Creole houses, local shops, and historic buildings such as the Saint-Joseph church, one of the oldest in Guadeloupe. The commune’s urban planning fits perfectly into its natural setting, with residential neighborhoods extending along hills and rivers. Markets and artisan workshops in the center serve as meeting places for residents and visitors, creating a friendly and peaceful atmosphere.

Geography of the commune of vieux-habitants

Vieux-Habitants is surrounded by mountains and rivers, offering lush vegetation and varied landscapes. The commune is crossed by the Grande Rivière des Vieux-Habitants, a popular spot for swimming and family picnics. The tropical climate, combined with volcanic soils, supports prosperous agriculture, especially for coffee and cocoa cultivation. Pebble beaches, such as Rocroy, provide a wild and preserved natural setting, ideal for those seeking calm and authenticity.

Economic activities

The economy of Vieux-Habitants mainly relies on agriculture, tourism, and crafts. Coffee cultivation is a major activity, with plantations producing high-quality coffee known for its unique flavor. The Maison du Café, located at the Domaine de Vanibel, is a tourist attraction where visitors can learn about the coffee-making process, from planting to roasting, and taste local products. Ecotourism is also developing, with hiking trails, tropical garden visits, and river activities attracting visitors looking for nature and adventure. Artisan trade, including cocoa production and traditional crafts, also contributes to the local economy.

Neighboring communes and area

Vieux-Habitants borders the communes of Bouillante to the north and Baillif to the south. Covering about 58 km², the commune stretches between sea and mountains, offering diverse landscapes and a peaceful living environment. Its location on the leeward coast of Guadeloupe provides calm beaches and rich biodiversity, ideal for outdoor activities.

Access and distances to other towns

Located about 15 km from Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe’s prefecture, Vieux-Habitants is easily accessible via the national road along the west coast of Basse-Terre. Its proximity to Bouillante, famous for the Cousteau reserve, makes it a convenient starting point to explore natural sites in the region. The roads crossing Vieux-Habitants also offer magnificent panoramas of the Caribbean Sea and surrounding mountains.

Real estate trends in the town

The real estate market in Vieux-Habitants is stable, with demand for single-family homes and secondary residences. The average price per square meter is around 2,200 euros, an attractive rate for families and investors seeking a calm, natural living environment. Properties with sea views or near coffee plantations and natural areas are particularly sought after for their tranquility and authenticity.

Politics

The current mayor of Vieux-Habitants, Mr. Jules Otto, supports projects promoting sustainable agriculture, heritage valorization, and green tourism development. The municipality encourages local initiatives to preserve the environment, especially river areas and farmland. Efforts are also made to modernize infrastructure while respecting the commune’s traditions and natural setting.

Must-see places and monuments in vieux-habitants

Vieux-Habitants houses several sites of interest, particularly related to its agricultural and natural heritage. The Maison du Café is an iconic place where visitors can discover Guadeloupe’s coffee history and taste local products. The 17th-century Saint-Joseph church is one of the oldest on the island and bears witness to the commune’s religious history. The botanical garden of Domaine de Vanibel offers an immersion into tropical flora and magnificent views over coffee and banana plantations. Pebble beaches and rivers like the Grande Rivière are popular spots for swimming and relaxation.

Cultural events

The cultural life of Vieux-Habitants is marked by traditional events and local festivals. The patronal feast, dedicated to Saint Joseph, gathers residents around religious celebrations, Creole music concerts, and activities for all ages. Carnival is also a highlight of the year, with locals parading in colorful costumes and dancing to the drums and Gwoka, Guadeloupe’s traditional music. The commune also organizes events around coffee and agriculture, showcasing local know-how and Vieux-Habitants’ agricultural heritage.