The island of Martinique offers an attractive mix of natural beauty, from its charming beaches to its lovely rivers; a rich and interesting culture, as well as fascinating history and folklore. It's a pleasure to come to the country to discover all that the island has to offer. Today, the Airlocal team suggests a few points of interest that you might consider visiting if you decide to come to Martinique.
…rance, this military fort is an important historical site. It has protected Martinique from foreign invasions for decades. It also offers a beautiful view of the city and the sea, and its iguanas love to stroll along the waterfront.
La Savane des Esclaves
In Le François, you can find this former sugar cane plantation, now a museum dedicated to Martinique's history and the production of Clément rum, which has received numerous international awards! Many exhibitions take place throughout the year, and it's a pleasure to discover the rum-making methods, from cutting the sugar cane to the grinding and bottling of the final product.
Must-Visit Museums
Located in the birth and life house of Joséphine de Beauharnais, Napoleon Bonaparte's first wife, this is an essential and historically charged place to visit! A good portion of her belongings, including her bed, has been preserved all these years, and every year, Napoleon enthusiasts flock to visit this place. The museum has existed since 1929, following the destruction caused by a devastating hurricane. This former sugar refinery also cultivated coffee, cocoa, and sugar cane.
Musée d'Archéologie Précolombienne et de Préhistoire
Opened in 1970, this museum in Fort-de-France offers an insight into the lives of the island's early inhabitants. It allows discovering pre-Columbian history and understanding previous civilizations, including the Amerindians. Everyday objects and ritual objects are displayed for the general public. A truly interesting visit, especially for history enthusiasts.
Landscapes and Nature
La Montagne Pelée
This charming open-air village in Trois-Îlets provides a glimpse into the lives of slaves and Creole culture. Under the guidance of "Ti Gilbè," it's a true step back in time. Time seems frozen in this unusual space. The slave huts and the Creole garden are must-see spots to extend your knowledge of Martinique's culture!
Habitation Clément
This active volcano is also the highest point on the island, above the clouds. It stands at an altitude of 1395 meters and is over 300,000 years old! Ideal for family or friends' hikes, it's a historical site in the northern part of the island that sees thousands of people visit each year. Its last eruption was deadly: over 30,000 people lost their lives on May 8, 1902.
Jardin de Balata
This magnificent botanical garden showcases a wide variety of tropical plants. Born from the mind of Jean-Philippe Thoze, a horticulturist, landscaper, and ingenious artist, work began in 1982, and since then, the garden has covered an area of 2 hectares and displays hundreds of different species of tropical flowers: hibiscus, porcelain rose, and heliconias. The colors are breathtaking!
Les plages des Anses d'Arlet (The beaches of Anses d'Arlet)
Looking for the most beautiful beaches to swim, stroll, or just breathe in the fresh air? The beaches of Anses d'Arlet are among the most beautiful and pleasant on the island. A collection of picturesque seaside spots, perfect for snorkeling and other water activities. You can encounter turtles during your escapades, swim alongside them, and also dine in the numerous restaurants nearby. The best spots? Probably Anse Noire and Anse Dufour, as well as the town beach with its jetty overlooking the iconic church.
La Presqu'île de la Caravelle (The Caravelle Peninsula)
This nature reserve covers 400 hectares and offers a wide variety of fauna, flora, and beautiful beaches. One could mistake it for a desert, but it's indeed Martinique! Perfect for hikes, it will allow you to recharge and enjoy the stunning view of Baie du Trésor (Treasure Bay) and Château Dubuc, located nearby.
Also Worth Seeing
Le marché couvert de Fort-de-France (The covered market of Fort-de-France)
A lively market where scents, colors, and flavors come together in unison to offer you an absolutely fabulous spectacle. You'll be dazzled by the place, that's for sure! You can buy local spices, fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products like punch, liqueur, or others. You can also chat with the sellers and artisans about their products, manufacturing methods, and experiences.
The distilleries
Martinique is internationally famous for its rum, with a wide variety available, which means there are also several distilleries to visit. The Saint-James, Clément, Neisson, Depaz, JM, and Trois-Rivières distilleries are open to the public, allowing you to discover the specific manufacturing methods of each of these renowned and widely consumed brands in Martinique and worldwide.
Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply outdoor activities and beaches, Martinique has a lot to offer. For all tastes and all styles!
