Vieux Fort lighthouse

Between Trois-Rivières and Basse-Terre, along the D6, you will find the lighthouse of Vieux-Fort. Whether you are coming from one end of the coast or the other, the D6 is a charming road well worth the drive. On the Trois-Rivières side, it is wild, crossing the forest and giving impressive views of the cliff. On the Basse-Terre side, it winds along with the coastline to the right, and cliffs to the left.

Located at the southern end of the island of Basse-Terre, the Pointe de Vieux-Fort has played an important role in the defense of Basse-Terre bay. Two cannon batteries were built here and the remains still stand. Warning sailors of coastal hazards, the lighthouse has been in operation since 1955, and has since become the emblem of the small fishing village it oversees.

At the foot of the lighthouse are two worlds: on the left a raging sea smashes against the rocks and the base of the fort, discouraging any would-be bathers. On the right, the water is calm, clear, and deep, alternating dark blue and and turquoise in colour. It is a unique spot for a sheltered dive session, and thrill seekers can safely jump from the cliffs into the water below.