Basse-Terre, Administrative center in Guadeloupe, France
Description
Basse-Terre is the administrative center of Guadeloupe and sits on the western coast of the island where it overlooks a sheltered bay. The town spreads along the waterfront with government buildings, a busy port area, and residential neighborhoods backing onto forested hills.
History
The French founded Basse-Terre in 1643 as their colonial seat and built Fort Delgrès for defense against rival powers. The town served as the island's main center for trade and government and has remained important ever since.
Culture
The local population speaks French and Creole in daily life, and you can hear this mix of languages in shops and on the streets throughout the town center.
Practical
Visitors can reach Basse-Terre by car or bus from Pointe-à-Pitre; the journey takes about an hour along the coastal road. The best time to explore is early morning when the markets are active and temperatures are cooler.
Did you know?
The Valérien gorge near the city holds a hidden waterfall that many visitors miss even though it sits just off the main paths. The spot is easy to reach on foot and offers a refreshing break from the town.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Guadeloupe).
Photo license: CC BY-SA 3.0
Fort Delgrès
1.4 km
Basse-Terre Cathedral
350 mPrefecture hotel of Guadeloupe
1.2 km
Église Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel
1.1 kmPalais de justice de Basse-Terre
766 m
Pont sur le Galion
1.6 km
Maison Coquille
452 m
Palace of the General Council
635 m
Maison Chapp
166 m
Maison Matis
992 m
Musée Gerty-Archimède
300 m
Monument aux morts de Basse-Terre
752 m
Arsenal
1.1 km
Monastère Saint-Antoine de Basse-Terre
343 m
Maison Liensol
444 m
Glacière
366 m
Aqueduc et réservoir de Petite Guinée
490 mMaison de l'historien Lacour
660 m
Ancienne Distillerie Des Marets
1.9 kmJardin botanique de Basse-Terre
962 mMusée de l'histoire de la Guadeloupe
1.4 kmBastion de la Basse-Terre
1.4 kmBastion du Galion
1.5 kmBastion du génie
1.5 kmBastion plat
1.5 kmBastion sans nom
1.4 kmCour intérieure
1.4 kmCaserne
1.5 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes