4* "Cases créoles" with private pools

The villa Turquoise was superb. Even better than expected. The view from the terrace was breathtaking and ever-changing. We loved just sitting and looking out over the sea to Terre de Haut. We also enjoyed cooling off in the small wrap around pool or sitting in the pretty garden reading under the palm tree. The decor and furnishing of the villa inside and out are tasteful and high quality. Véronique who meets and greets is a star. She is good natured, knowledgeable and very welcoming (French speaking only) We also regularly took advantage of the takeaways her catering company offer. They were delivered each evening by her smiley son on his moped (a welcome sound when you are hungry!) and were delicious, generous and home cooked. Reasonable price too at €12 per serving. We loved the walks from Grande Anse all over the island. Very steep and some challenging in places so good shoes essential. We saw fresh water turtles and lots of birds on these walks but no iguanas - although Véronique assured us there are lots if you know where to look! One thing that has to be mentioned (the elephant in the room) is the tragedy of the sargasse seaweed that has washed up here (and many other places in the Caribbean). It has devastated the local town Grande Anse, making the once popular palm-fringed beach à no-go area. As a result the local commerce has suffered and no one seems to know what will be done about it. At the time of our visit it was particularly bad as the guy who normally clears it away each day had been on holiday for a month so there was quite a build up. Don’t let this put you off booking here. It is truly beautiful. For a non-seaweed beach, take a very cheap minibus over to Petites Anses (or walk around on the road or over the top on one of several paths - we did both and the beach is a lovely reward!) There is a simple restaurant overlooking the beach. If you love peace and quiet, walking and nature, Terre de Bas is for you and I couldn’t imagine staying in a more beautiful place than Turquoise.

This property is amazing! The cottage is beautiful, new, clean, and extremely well appointed. So much so, that my design-minded, detail-oriented bride felt immediately comfortable, relaxed, and happy to spend our honeymoon together there. The creole-style covered porch is spacious and well appointed with an outdoor kitchen that is efficient, well stocked with cookware, dishes and glasses. The stove, refrigerator/freezer and microwave are all in great working order. The adjacent pool is refreshing and more private than one might expect. Inside the cottage, replete with a fantasy 4-poster with complete mosquito netting, is equally well appointed, cozy, and comfortable. This place deserves to be respected by those who chose to use it, as it is the details (fine linens, high-quality items, etc.) that are what make it that much more special than typical vacation rentals. The location is slightly challenging (bring your athletic shoes) as the terrain near the cottage is steep. We wouldn't recommend it to anyone who has mobility issues. But the spectacular views that the hill affords are well worth it! Plus, walking is the easiest method to access the island's quaint restaurants, cute markets, and to the harbor. We chose to take the ferry to Terre-de-Haut a few times where there are more daytime activities, better shopping (groceries included), and spectacular boating options. (If you're not familiar, be aware of the mid-day break though!) However, we were happy to return to Terre-de-Bas for quiet, romantic evenings away from the tourists. To access the other town and the beaches on the west side of the island, hire a taxi van. (It's far!) They will collect you at the cottage and will pick you up to take you back at a prearranged time. Being barely passable french speakers (Hablo español), we managed to make reservations and travel plans with the aid of translation software and incredibly friendly locals. (It added to our authentic honeymoon experience) Our cell phones and other technology were only functional in Wi-Fi spots that are few and far between. (We opted not to sign up for the available expensive Guadeloupe call plan) A friendly attitude went a long way, and was happily accepted by everyone we encountered. The owner and the caretaker's families are extremely hospitable. The entire community is friendly, helpful, and all made our honeymoon incredibly special. We can't wait to return to see everyone again, hopefully soon!