These castles in the sea were built by wind and waves
The butterfly-shaped island of Guadeloupe has distinctive geographic personalities. Rugged volcanic mountains rise on the western wing of Basse-Terre, while the easterly wing of Grande- Terre is flat limestone plateau known for its white sand beaches.
One of the island’s most popular scenic attractions lies at the far end of this eastern wing, at the point where boisterous Atlantic swells meet the waters of the Caribbean. Known as Pointe des Chateaux, these distinctively eroded limestone formations are said to resemble castles in the sea.
The site is overlooked by a 33-foot high cross at the top of the bluff, the legacy of a group of Capuchin monks who established a parish nearby. A 15-minute walk brings visitors to this high point for views of the island of La Désirade along with Marie-Galante, Les Saintes and Basse-Terre. Look for whales crossing the waters in May.
