It is easy to imagine the delight of the weary Columbus, who discovered this Caribbean island in 1493. Hence the name – Long-awaited. Over the past centuries, La Desirade has experienced many events: from the transition to French possessions to the functioning of a clinic for leprosy patients. Today, the paradise region attracts travelers from all countries. This is not surprising, since the land, generous with sunshine, is more than conducive to an excellent holiday in all respects.
La Dezirad on the map
The island of La Desirade on the world map or a detailed map of the island can be viewed using the navigation buttons (+/-). Caribbean on the map
The property of Guadeloupe, which has an elongated oblong shape, is located in the ridge of the Lesser Antilles to the east of Pointe de Château. The dimensions of the picturesque region are small - the width is only 2 km, the length does not exceed 11 km, and the total area of the territory is about 22 km². In its archipelago, La Desirade is the least developed, which undoubtedly attracts lovers of eco-tours. The coast is washed by the Caribbean Sea, the 276-meter Grande Montagne mountain is recognized as the highest point.
The administrative center is the miniature village of Busejour in the southwestern part of La Désirade. In addition to it, there are three more settlements on the island, the total number of local residents is just over one and a half thousand people.
Holidays on La Desirade
La Desirade has its own airport, so getting to the island of your dreams is possible both by air and by water. The unique “wildness” of the area will certainly be appreciated by tourists escaping the stress of big cities. However, the rocky territory only seems harsh, here travelers will find quite comfortable and civilized conditions: cozy hotel complexes, excellent cuisine, characterized by variety, diving centers equipped with modern equipment, shimmering velvet beaches, colorful night parties.
If desired, it is easy to alternate beach nirvana with active recreation, excursions to the nearest islands, exploring underwater beauties, and shopping trips to find original souvenirs.
Nature La Desirade
Although there are no multi-tiered forests and endless plantations on La Désirade, the wild charm of nature gives the island a special charm. Moreover, upon closer acquaintance, tourists discover truly heavenly places. The northern side of the island is rocky and has sparse vegetation. To the south, the fauna became generous, endowing the Caribbean pearl with tropical lush thickets, and adorned the pristine beaches with a magnificent necklace of coral reefs.
The fauna is represented mainly by insects, agoutis, iguanas, and numerous birds. Unlike terrestrial flora, underwater flora amazes with its riot of colors, diversity, and splendor.
Attractions La Desirade
La Desirade is one of the few places on the planet that guarantees a truly ecological holiday. You can go to theaters and museums if you go to Grande Terre, located fifteen kilometers away; here, almost all the attractions are connected with nature. If you want to test yourself in the mountaineering field, then La Desirade is the most suitable place, since climbing the Grande Montagne under the guidance of an instructor is equivalent to an average level and takes no more than two hours. Even ultra-modern photographic lenses are not able to convey the breathtaking beauty that opens from the top of the mountain - it’s worth coming here just for this!
Fans of hiking will enjoy an exciting trek to the Riviere Valley, and ethno-tourists will not regret taking the time to explore the administrative center, the village of Busejour. Its main attractions are a picturesque church and a marine cemetery, unusually decorated with shells. Rented bicycles and scooters will bring comfort, a lot of positive emotions and bright emotions to mini-tours.
And yet, the main goal for those who have studied the Caribbean and chose La Desirade is the sea. In the southern part there are two gorgeous golden beaches, fringed with green lace of palm trees - Baie Mao and La Souffleur.
When is the best time to go to La Desirade
Heavy and frequent rainfall is not typical for La Désirade, but for a vacation it is advisable to choose the period from December to June. The temperature is quite even, without sharp fluctuations - on average 25-27˚. It is noteworthy that the coastal waters are warm all year round - 22-24˚.
If you want to disconnect from the noise of big cities, soak up the sunny positivity of the Caribbean, and feel its virgin charm, then you should buy tickets to La Desirade. On this wonderful island it is easy to merge with nature, feeling like a conqueror of an uninhabited paradise. And get enough of its dizzying energy!
