Bouillante is south of the Route de la Traversée, not quite halfway between Deshaies and Basse-Terre. It can be reached via the national road 2.

Bouillante means “boiling” in English and it is aptly named. Indeed, in this town, there are several natural hot thermal springs, to the point that a geothermal power plant to produce electricity is installed here. Some hot springs are accessible to the public, including the Thomas hot bath (bain chaud de Thomas) or the priest’s bath (le bain du curé) or the hot spring of Petite Anse. On the other hand, be aware that these thermal baths also give off a particular smell.

In the center of the village, the pretty Saint-Louis church is well surrounded, with the town hall on one side and the war memorial with the bust of Marianne on the other. The presence of the place of worship dates from the 17th century, but the one in front of you is a version rebuilt after being hit by multiple attacks by English uprisings and Mother Nature. The facade has only a centered door and no window.

If the bust of Marianne seems familiar to you, know that there are other versions in commemoration of the July 14, 1789, Revolution when the citizens firmly claimed their right to their freedom.

On a different note, it is also in Bouillante that one of the main attractions of this part of the island is located: the Cousteau reserve. Malendure beach, located just opposite the Pigeon islets, has been developed with a global tourist offer, including catering and nautical equipment rental.

Whether for snorkeling or scuba diving, you will see a colorful marine setting that is relatively easy to access in water at comfortable temperatures.

If you wish to combine this visit with nearby attractions you can consider the zoo park and la cascade aux écrevisses.

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