Habitation Néron

Habitation Néron: from sugar origins to the golden age of rum

What remains of a place that has witnessed centuries go by? Founded in 1740, Habitation Néron is much more than a former sugar estate. At its peak, this vast property extended over 150 hectares, a true production site where sugarcane was transformed with remarkable expertise. But its story doesn’t end there: starting in 1912, it became a distillery producing one of the highest volumes of rum in Le Moule, before being bought in 1933 by the Beuzelin family.

Habitation Néron traces its roots back to the 17th century, when European colonists began establishing agricultural plantations in Guadeloupe. Initially focused on sugarcane cultivation, the estate later diversified into the production of cocoa and coffee, both of which played a major economic role in the archipelago’s history.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the estate thrived thanks to rigorous organization and the use of enslaved labor. Today, the site still houses industrial remnants such as mills, boilers, and fermentation vats that bear witness to the process of turning sugarcane into rum.

After the abolition of slavery in 1848, Habitation Néron went through a period of decline before being gradually restored as a heritage site. Today, it is a place of memory that allows visitors to understand the historical realities of Guadeloupe while appreciating the natural beauty of the surroundings.

As you walk through the site, you can almost hear the hum of old machinery and imagine the workers bustling around the mills and vats. The remnants of this activity—including the mill, pools, and even a chapel—evoke a past that was both industrial and agricultural, and tell a story marked by hardship, such as the sugar crisis of the 1960s.

Today, this site is a key witness to Guadeloupe’s economic and social evolution. It also raises an important question: how can we preserve these memory-filled places? Walking among its ruins, it becomes clear that this heritage deserves to be valued—not only to better understand the past but also to prepare for the future.

A heritage to pass on: remains and visitor circuits

Exploring Habitation Néron means diving into a heritage where every element tells a part of Guadeloupe’s story. The site’s remarkable remains—such as the main house, industrial vats, and the mill—testify to the sugar and rum production that shaped this region. Across its current 10 hectares, visitors can also admire an ingenious hydraulic system connecting five large ponds, a relic from a time when water management was essential to the plantation’s operation.

Today, the site is part of the “Slave Route: Memory Traces in Guadeloupe”, a tourism circuit that encourages reflection on history and past struggles. As you explore the grounds, you feel a mix of admiration for human ingenuity and respect for the challenges overcome by previous generations.

Habitation Néron is not just a historical landmark—it is an educational, cultural, and ecological resource. It calls for enhanced preservation so that these traces are not simply ruins, but keys to better understanding the past and its effects on our present.

Habitation Néron today: between nature, culture, and events

Today, Habitation Néron stands as a unique place where past and present meet. Nestled in a lush, green setting, this 10-hectare property blends history and nature to offer an enriching and authentic experience. Partially restored, the site regularly hosts cultural and private events, breathing new life into these history-laden ruins. Imagine a wedding or seminar in a beautifully restored former chapel, or a cocktail reception beside the estate’s luxuriant ponds.

For those seeking relaxation and social moments, the Lékouz bar offers a modern experience. It’s open from Thursday to Saturday, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. This space is perfect for enjoying a peaceful evening while taking in the estate’s unique atmosphere.

What kinds of events can be hosted at Habitation Néron?

Habitation Néron offers an exceptional setting for a wide range of events, combining the elegance of its historic heritage with the natural beauty of its 10 hectares. This charming location is ideal for weddings, corporate seminars, private parties, or cultural exhibitions. The beautifully restored chapel makes it a perfect venue for intimate or religious ceremonies, while the outdoor areas provide an idyllic backdrop for open-air receptions.

The site also provides facilities for professional gatherings such as conferences or workshops, with flexible layouts to suit your specific needs. Visitors can enjoy the site’s serene and historically rich atmosphere while benefiting from modern amenities.

How does Habitation Néron fit into the "Slave Route" circuit?

Habitation Néron plays a central role in the “Slave Route: Memory Traces in Guadeloupe” tourism circuit, which highlights the complex history of slavery in the archipelago. As a former sugar estate founded in 1740, it illustrates how plantations operated during the colonial era, closely tied to the exploitation of enslaved people. The preserved elements—such as the main house, vats, and mill—help us grasp the working and living conditions that defined these historically significant places.

Its inclusion in the circuit aims to honor the memory of the men and women who were enslaved, while offering visitors a unique opportunity to understand their contributions to Guadeloupean society. The site invites deep reflection on the legacy of these tragic events and underscores the importance of preserving this heritage for future generations.

Visiting Habitation Néron within this context is more than a historical discovery—it’s a moment of awareness, essential for understanding the struggles and resistances that have shaped Guadeloupe’s cultural and human identity. This approach gives the site invaluable educational and memorial importance.

What transportation options are available to reach Habitation Néron from Le Moule?

Habitation Néron is ideally located in the Néron section, near the town of Le Moule, on Grande-Terre. To get there, several transportation options are available. By car, access is especially convenient thanks to a well-developed road network. The site also offers free parking, making it easy for visitors to park.

For those using public transportation, regular bus lines run from Le Moule to major towns on Grande-Terre, including Pointe-à-Pitre, with connections to nearby rural areas. However, schedules can vary, so it’s recommended to check availability in advance.

Eco-conscious or active travelers may also consider renting a bicycle or scooter. This option lets you fully enjoy the lush landscapes that line the roads to the estate. The quiet rural routes make the ride especially pleasant.

No matter which mode of transportation you choose, planning your trip with local conditions and schedules in mind will help ensure a smooth arrival to this unique historical site. Once there, Habitation Néron welcomes you into a peaceful, history-rich setting.