Once we had all our chores completed and sail repairs underway, we rented a car from an off-site vendor- Mistake. There’s a car rental agent right on property at Bas du Fort Marina, and I discovered after the fact their rates are cheaper and their cars newer than the rent-a-wreck place. The car we rented had no AC, the radio did not work, and one door would not open; all this at a higher price – lesson learned ( and I asked at the front desk where I should rent!)
Not long after motoring off we came across a water-front park overlooking the lighthouse which marks the entrance to the harbor on Isle de Gosier, so we decided to pay a visit.
Anchoring in the lee of this island is a favorite day trip for many, and we’ve put this spot on our “to do” list because this anchorage provides secure holding with a killer view to the south. The park itself is a quiet place to wander, relax, and breathe in the fragrant Caribbean air.
From the park we drove to the very eastern tip of the island at Pointe des Chateux (Point of Castles), a very popular national park dedicated to preserving the natural environment of this part of the island.
This park gets its name from the rocky promontory where huge masses of rock have dropped into the Atlantic creating what looks like small castles jutting out of the water. Views from here are stunning as you gaze off to the east to see the island of La Desirade and the Tropical Atlantic ocean.
One of these years we’d like to wander off the cruiser’s beaten path to head up the eastern side of Guadeloupe, stop in at La Desiderade, and from there, take the downwind sleigh ride to Antigua. Perhaps in 2015.