Gites Soleil Couchant

We wished we could have stayed longer and spent more time in the garden, but we were busy exploring Guadeloupe. We drove around all of Basse-Terre in a day, stopping at a few rum distilleries, museums, a local mall, and scenic beaches for photos. We normally travel at least eight weeks a year, and this place exceeded our expectations. The five private apartments at Gite Soleil are set apart from each other in a beautiful tropical garden, away from the main road. There is a lounging area and an outdoor shower. Our apartment was spacious, beautifully furnished, and equipped with incredible attention to detail. The owner has thought of what guests might need, even providing shopping bags. The porch had a large table, four chairs, and space to dry clothes and towels. The kitchen was better equipped than mine at home, and the glasses and plates looked like a Museum of Modern Art display, arranged to perfection. The spacious bathroom had two sinks and a custom shower with a beautiful handmade mosaic. There was always plenty of hot water. The owner had made each apartment mosquito-proof, something we appreciated after seeing other tourists covered in bites. La Grande-Anse beach is within walking distance, as are several good places to eat and a convenience store. Deshaies is a short drive away, with a few ATMs, a bakery, post office, supermarket, and several restaurants. The Botanical Garden is just past the village. Rum distilleries, museums, and other attractions are also a drive away.

A handy place to pick up a few things for home, and the prices seem reasonable.

Everything felt carefully arranged, right down to the shopping bags. We found bottled water and a small bottle of rum punch waiting when we arrived. The gîtes are separate from one another, so it feels like you have the place to yourself. It's a very well-equipped gîte with a lovely garden, and the beach is just 200 meters away. The owners were really kind and welcoming. A wonderful discovery.

The “ciel” gîte where we stayed was comfortable and very pleasant, right in the middle of the owners' superb garden. Dominique and Isabelle were such warm hosts, and Grand Anse beach is only five minutes away. I really recommend it.