CASTLE TOPS

From Saint-François, leaving the marina, leave the N4 and continue on the D118 (directions are well signposted). The road runs along a coastline of wild vegetation, with attractive mangrove and marigot landscapes. On your left, you'll find the artisan village, with its charming boutiques selling quality handicrafts, and small inland restaurants offering the scent of lobster and seafood. Others are on the seafront, offering panoramic views of the rocky coastline. The surrounding beaches are probably among the most beautiful on the island.

The landscape at the eastern end of the island becomes wilder the further you go, with low vegetation. This almost deserted marigot is sparsely inhabited, giving the impression of the end of the earth, so dear to the Bretons, although the comparison ends there. A fierce kingdom, its rocky flanks battered by the waves. You can't tame this tip, which offers much more than a singular spectacle: a cure for nature in its raw state. Swimming here is forbidden as it is extremely dangerous. A nearby path leads to the cross where a poem by Saint-John Perse found eternal refuge. Admire the panorama and the island of La Désirade, which you can clearly make out on a clear day. This superb walk can be completed in an hour round trip. In season, it's possible to spot whales. The association Mon école, ma baleine organizes conferences and sightings on Wednesdays and Fridays from 4pm to 6pm.

Archaeological digs at the Anse à la Gourde and Pointe des Pies sites have revealed the presence of aboriginal peoples on this trade wind-exposed land from 300 to 1400 AD.

The Capucin religious community, which settled here in 1683, gave it the name of the parish of Châteaux.

An astonishing limestone point jutting out into the sea. You'll have to walk a little way up the small path to the calvary to take in the sumptuous panoramic view. Rocks and peaks beaten by the wind and waves - nature in its raw state! As at Porte d'Enfer, to the north, it is said that the devil lives in these raging rollers, and swimming on the beach at l'Anse is forbidden.

Don't leave without tasting the famous coconut sorbet (other flavors are available), prepared according to local tradition on the spot in front of you using a traditional West Indian ice cream maker.