Hiking - La Soufrière
The trail is marked with information boards which allow you to follow in the footsteps of Andézinn and Patiss, a young daughter and her grandfather, in discovering La Soufrière volcano, otherwise known as "the Old Lady".
"It was as late as January 1885, almost four centuries after the discovery of Guadeloupe, that under the auspices of Mr. Rollin, the mayor of Saint-Claude, a suitable path was opened in order to cross the woods of Bains Jaunes and guide the Count and Countess of Bardy to La Soufrière." G.Werter, "Coureur des Bois".
Hiking trail colour: yellow
Make sure to consult the many information boards throughout the trail. Starting from the parking area of Bains Jaunes, take the "Pas du Roy" paved path. At the intersection, leave the access to the Chute du Galion on your right and keep going straight on until the old parking area at the foot of La Soufrière: La Savane à Mulets, alongside Roche à Cortez. As you climb up to the left, the trail becomes more rocky and the vegetation more trim the higher you go. At La Grande Faille, go straight on. The climb is steep. Go around the top plateau of La Soufrière from the right. There is plenty of information available about the wealth of interesting things to discover: the summit of la Grande Découverte, la Porte d'Enfer, the craters, and much more.
Then head back down the trail until you reach La Grande Faille, keep going straight on until la Savane à Mulets, and return to the car park by le Pas du Roy. For a nice, relaxing break, simply return to the hot water springs back near the parking area.
As Guadeloupe is prone to natural risks, extra care should be taken in this natural environment. For the benefit of all hikers, responsible behaviour is very important.
Beware of sulphurous gas emissions, which are highly toxic: do not cross the protective barriers. In the event of bad weather at the summit plateau of La Soufrière, such as rain or fog, follow the yellow stakes in the ground carefully.
Please note : the parking and swimming areas are not supervised.
Make sure you adhere to any rules issued by the Regional Health Agency concerning hot baths.