La Toubana Hotel & Spa ★★★★

Like the beautifully patterned wings of a butterfly, Guadeloupe has two stunning main islands joined together by a bridge. Unlike a butterfly however, the wings aren’t an exact mirror of each other, no, each one is distinct. These islands are not only diverse in landscapes but also in culture, as it draws upon European, West Indian, French and African influences. If you’re looking for long stretches of pristine beaches but also a touch of culture, than La Toubana in the south of Gaudeloupe’s Grande-Terre is the best place to be!

The placement of this hotel is truly extraordinary, where the sun beds sit gathered round a large infinity pool that appears to be cascading in the sea, the sea swirls into the hotel and it appears as if the grounds of the hotel and the beach join in a spiral. Sitting on this tranquil, private slice of paradise are comfortable cushioned sun beds and a convenient beach and pool bar. The crystal waters of the pool sparkle as do that of the sea, which meets the white doughy sand and turns crystal clear. As you look and wander around you could easily mistake this place for paradise…

Even more when you enter your luxurious lodgings; an indulgent bungalow, with an oh-so scrumptious sea view that will keep you dreaming of this reverie all night long and when you wake up, you can step outside and live the waking dream. And there’s nothing better than a large bed and thick mattress on which to dream this celestial dream. The bungalows are a spacious 50m² and include a bathroom with a walk-in Italian shower or bath, a relaxing place to sit, a private terrace with furniture and a kitchenette plus all the mod-cons you’d expect from a four star establishment.

Now that your lodgings have proved to be an indulgent boudoir, the rest of the hotel has to live up to it. And so it does! The hotel offers three places in which to eat and drink; Le Grand Restaurant, which enjoys an idyllic location overlooking the swimming pool, the perfect place to sit down to breakfast or to a delicious dinner. It serves buffet food throughout the day, combining French and Creole cuisine. The snack bar, On the Beach, is a great lunch stop which once again makes use of that glittering sea view. You can have a bit to eat al fresco and take in the idyllic surroundings. When the evening arrives why don’t you head over to Le Bar de la Mer to savour a cocktail? Tantalise your taste buds with a fruity drink mixed in with the kick of rum, as the sun goes down.

Last, but certainly not least, is the Ocean Spa. Nourish your body and soul in the tranquillity and sweet aroma of this place. It contains four massage cabins, of which one is a double massage room and the other a space for water massages. There is also a fitness room and relaxation room to care for your wellbeing.

Heaven on Earth? It does exist, because we’ve found it!