La trace des Falaises (hike)

Follow ‘la trace des falaises’ to hike the cliffs in Terre-de-Bas from the beaches of Grande Anse to the lesser known bay of L'Anse à Dos.

The colour palette of this trail is lush, alternating blue from the bay, green from the West Indian Trees, and warm earth tones from the plateaus, all giving way to sublime views of the archipelago at the lookouts scattered throughout.

Starting at the far end of Grande Anse beach, the trail runs along the coastline and gives exceptional views on the Saintes bay. You will have to walk beneath some mancenillier trees near the start of your journey. Be very careful as this tree is poisonous, do not stand under these trees in rainy weather, do not touch its leaves, fruit, or branches.

From there path alternates between slight ascents and descents, giving way to beautiful views of the sea and of Patébaie island. You will come upon a wooden door, go through it to continue on the trail, but be sure to close it behind you for the animals. After crossing a gully strewn with large stones, the trail climbs and crosses a sparse grassy area with a beautiful view of Basse-Terre and Pointe à Vaches. Further ahead, interwoven branches block the trail, step over them to continue your journey. The trail becomes steep here, taking you between the rocks and through a well known forest of West Indian Trees. The ascent of the Morne Sec foothills leads to a well-shaded and towering forest. Ruins of dwellings can be seen on both sides of the trail under the tall trees.

At last, you will arrive at Anse à Chaux, a beautiful cove where the yellow and blue trail markers merge and guide you to the end of your hike. Discover the local inhabitants - molokoi turtles - to your left. From here you will be lead to a wider path on the north road. Keep left to go down to Grande Anse.

Difficulty: average
Duration: 3 hours
Distance: 6.8 km (2.3 km on concrete road)
Total Ascent: 240 meters
Trail Markers: Yellow