Family Activities:

Fort Fleur d’Epee

Attraction

This fortification on Grand-Terre was built by the French between 1750 and 1763 to defend the island against English attacks and occupation. In the spring of 1794, fierce fighting took place in and around the fort, and it was briefly captured by the British, but was retaken within a month and successfully held by the French from then on. It is also a heritage site due to its role in Guadeloupe’s history of slavery and is part of a trail dubbed “The Slave Route.” You can walk around the fort in about 20 minutes, so it’s not something to plan your day around, but history buffs will enjoy it and it features great views of the bay. Often there are art exhibits in the buildings as well.