Climb Terre-de-Haut's highest point before the day-trippers arrive, to the ruined signal fort with a 360° view over the whole archipelago.
What to expect
You'll start in darkness through dry scrub forest, past cactus and century plants, gaining views of Terre-de-Bas and the outer islets as the sky lightens. At the top, the ruined 19th-century semaphore fort frames a panorama locals consider the best in the Caribbean. The descent is unhurried, with a stop at a viewpoint bakery-café for fresh bread and coffee.
Good to know
Start by 5:30am to summit for sunrise and be back in the village by 8:30am, well clear of any all-aboard time. Wear real shoes — it's steep, rocky scrambling, not a boardwalk.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Iles des Saintes — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.