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There are great many things to do in France, and so are in Saint-Claude.
Explore the winding paths of Saint-Claude and immerse yourself in the colorful culture of this charming city nestled in the heart of the French Alps.
From sampling the delectable cuisine to embarking on scenic hikes, there is no shortage of experiences waiting to be discovered in Saint-Claude.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Saint-Claude:
1. Fort de Saint-Claude
A historic fort located in the French Overseas Territory of Guadeloupe in the Caribbean.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a tour of the fort, which includes exploring the various rooms and passageways, and learning about the fort’s strategic importance in defending the island from invading forces.
There is also a museum that showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the fort’s history.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains from the top of the fort’s walls.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the fort’s various levels and staircases. Plan to visit in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and less crowded.
Bring a camera to capture the impressive views from the fort.
2. Le Café de l’Industrie
A cozy and charming French café located in the historic town of Saint-Claude in the Jura region of eastern France.
What to see or do: Enjoy delicious French cuisine, including hearty breakfasts, traditional main courses, and indulgent desserts, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Take in the quaint atmosphere of the café’s rustic decor and antique furnishings while savoring a coffee, wine, or specialty cocktail.
Don’t miss: The signature dish of the café, a tender and flavorful cassoulet made with simmering white beans and succulent meats. Also, try the house-made charcuterie and pâtés for an authentic taste of the region.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a table in the outdoor terrace area, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Be sure to ask the friendly staff for recommendations on local sightseeing, hiking, and other outdoor activities in the area.
3. Musée de la Guadeloupe
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Guadeloupe.
What to see or do: Take a journey through the fascinating history of Guadeloupe, from pre-colonial times to the present day. Discover the island’s connections to the slave trade, its 19th century economic boom, and its cultural and linguistic diversity.
The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and artifacts from daily life.
Don’t miss: The section on carnival, which is a huge part of Guadeloupean culture. Learn about the history and significance of this colorful festival, and see examples of costumes and floats.
Insider travel tips: The museum is located in the town of Saint-Claude, which is known for its stunning views over the island and the sea.
Consider combining a visit to the museum with a hike or a visit to the nearby La Soufrière volcano. The museum is closed on Mondays and some holidays, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.
4. Cascade aux Écrevisses
Cascade aux Écrevisses is a beautiful waterfall located in the town of Saint-Claude, in the Jura Mountains of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the picturesque scenery of the waterfall cascading down from a height of 25 meters, surrounded by lush greenery.
It’s an ideal place for nature lovers to enjoy hiking, picnicking, or simply relaxing in the great outdoors.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb up to the top of the waterfall to enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
Also, keep an eye out for the colorful crayfish that inhabit the pools of water below the falls.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is during the warmer months when the water is flowing at its fullest.
5. Les chutes de la rivière Moreau
Les chutes de la rivière Moreau are a picturesque series of waterfalls located in the town of Saint-Claude, in the Jura Mountains of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike along a scenic trail that follows the river and offers multiple viewpoints of the falls. The trail is easy to navigate and suitable for all skill levels.
Be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stop at the Belvédère de Morez, a viewing platform that overlooks the town of Morez and the surrounding mountains.
This is a great spot to take in the stunning beauty of the area and snap a few photos.
Insider travel tips: – The falls are most impressive during the spring and summer months, when the snow melt feeds the river.
6. Maison de la Banane
Maison de la Banane in Saint-Claude is a museum dedicated to the history and cultivation of bananas in Guadeloupe.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the different stages of banana growth, from planting to harvesting, and see exhibits of vintage tools and machinery used in the industry.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the tasting room, where you can sample different varieties of bananas and banana-based products such as jams and liqueurs.
Insider travel tips: The Maison de la Banane is located in the town of Saint-Claude, which is also home to several other interesting museums and cultural attractions.
7. Centre Asptt Guadeloupe
A sports center located in Saint-Claude, Guadeloupe.
What to see or do: The Centre Asptt Guadeloupe offers a variety of sports activities such as tennis, soccer, basketball, fitness classes, and more. There are also swimming pools, a playground for children, and a clubhouse.
Don’t miss: The beautiful views of the surrounding mountainous landscape while enjoying a game of tennis or a swim in the pool.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to bring your own sports equipment and attire as the center does not provide them. Also, consider visiting during weekdays as weekends can get busy with locals and tourists alike.
8. Église de Saint-Claude
Église de Saint-Claude is a Roman Catholic church located in the French town of Saint-Claude.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful Neo-Gothic architecture of the church, including its intricate stained glass windows and ornate interior. The church also features a 17th-century organ and a crypt containing the remains of local bishops.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the church tower for incredible views of Saint-Claude and the surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: – Check the church’s website or local tourism office for mass times and other special events.
9. Parc national de la Guadeloupe
Parc national de la Guadeloupe is a natural park located in the commune of Saint-Claude, Guadeloupe. It was established in 1989 to protect the island’s biodiversity and promote eco-tourism.
What to see or do: The park is home to numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the island.
Visitors can also explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna, including a variety of birds, reptiles, and plant species unique to Guadeloupe.
Don’t miss: One of the park’s main attractions is the La Soufrière volcano, which can be reached by a challenging hike. There are also several waterfalls to discover, including the beautiful Cascade aux Ecrevisses and the majestic Chutes du Carbet.
Insider travel tips: – Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellant when hiking in the park.
10. Le marché de Basse-Terre
A vibrant outdoor market located in the town of Basse-Terre, Saint-Claude in Guadeloupe.
What to see or do: Wander through the various stalls and vendors offering a wide array of local produce, spices, fresh fish, and artisanal crafts. Take in the lively atmosphere of the market and soak up the sounds and smells of Guadeloupe.
Don’t miss: Sampling some of the traditional Creole dishes including accras (fried fish fritters) and bokit (a sandwich made with fried dough and filled with meat or fish).
Insider travel tips: – Visit the market early in the morning to experience it at its liveliest and to avoid the crowds.
11. Distillerie Bielle
Distillerie Bielle is a rum distillery located in the town of Saint-Claude, on the island of Guadeloupe.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the distillery to learn about the rum-making process and sample the different types of rum produced on site.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the tour is the tasting room, where visitors can try a variety of flavored rums, including mango, pineapple, and passion fruit.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring a designated driver, as the tastings can be quite generous. Also, check the distillery’s schedule before planning your visit, as tours may be limited during certain times of the year.
12. Les Jardins de Valombreuse
A botanical garden in Saint-Claude, Guadeloupe, featuring hundreds of species of tropical plants.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and admire the colorful collection of plants, including exotic flowers, fruit trees, and palm trees.
Relax by the pond or picnic on the expansive lawns.
Don’t miss: The Japanese garden, complete with a koi pond and manicured bonsai trees.
Insider travel tips: Bring mosquito repellent and don’t forget your camera to capture all the beauty of the gardens. Check for hours of operation as they can vary according to the season.
13. Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-Guadeloupe
Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-Guadeloupe is a beautiful Catholic cathedral located in the town of Saint-Claude in Guadeloupe.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Gothic and Romanesque architecture of the cathedral both on the exterior and interior. The stained-glass windows, carved wooden doors, and beautiful statues are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the towering bell tower that stands at an impressive 68 meters (223 feet) tall. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to catch a performance by the cathedral’s choir.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check the cathedral’s schedule for mass times and special events. Additionally, it’s recommended to dress modestly as it is a religious site.
Finally, take some time to explore the surrounding town of Saint-Claude, as it has many quaint shops and cafes worth checking out.
14. Le volcan La Grande Soufrière
La Grande Soufrière is an active volcano located on the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike to the top of the volcano to enjoy the stunning views of the island and the Caribbean Sea.
The hike is challenging, but rewarding, and takes approximately 3-4 hours round trip.
Don’t miss: The unique opportunity to witness an active volcano and geological wonder. Be sure to bring appropriate hiking gear and plenty of water.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to hike with a guide and to check the weather conditions beforehand. The best time to hike La Grande Soufrière is during the dry season from January to May.