Wander the 19th-century fort and its cactus garden alone in the cool morning air, with the whole archipelago laid out below before the tour groups arrive.
What to expect
A steep but short climb from the village brings you to the fort's whitewashed walls, restored barracks housing a small museum on the 1782 Battle of the Saintes, and a arid garden of cacti and succulents endemic to the island. From the ramparts, the whole bay and its scattering of islets spreads out below. It rarely takes more than ninety minutes, unhurried.
Good to know
Opens at 9am; arrive right at opening to beat both heat and crowds. The walk up takes about 15-20 minutes from the dock — wear real shoes, not sandals.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Les Saintes — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.