Terre-de-Haut, Les Saintes, Guadeloupe

Les Saintes are a volcanic archipelago of two islands and seven uninhabited islets surrounded by thriving coral reefs and clear seas. Small at just over two square miles, Terre-de-Haut is the most developed of the group, thanks to an anchorage-rich coastline of scenic bays, natural harbors, quiet beaches and charmingly picturesque villages. The ambience is decidedly low-key, and days are devoted to beachgoing, hiking, snorkeling and diving. The island, too hilly and arid for agriculture, boasts longstanding maritime traditions and a rich Norman-Breton heritage dating to the first French settlers. The main town of Bourg des Saintes is home to cafés, bistros, the historic church of Notre-Dame de l’Assomption and Fort Napoleon. Built on the ruins of Fort Louis, the 19th-century garrison was used as a prison and today houses a cultural history museum with a botanical garden and the best views of Les Saintes.