Beyond the white sandy beaches and turquoise waters that captivate travelers from around the world lies a lesser-known gem of Martinique: the North Atlantic. This region, often overlooked but incredibly rich in natural beauty and authenticity, offers a striking contrast to the more touristy side of the island.
Here, raw and wild nature is revealed, where the waves of the Atlantic meet the rugged coastlines, and every corner unveils a rich cultural history. In this article, we venture into Marti…
…nique's North Atlantic, exploring its breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and unique culture. Prepare to be enchanted by the authentic soul of this less-explored region, where every moment is an immersion into pristine nature and a cultural experience that will remain etched in your travel memories.
Advantages of This Less-Touristic Region of the Island:
Often overlooked, the North Atlantic of the island has many advantages that would be a shame to miss. Firstly, it offers a more wild and preserved nature, with spectacular landscapes and rocky coastlines that beautifully contrast with the more common beaches. It's an opportunity to discover authentic panoramas less altered by tourist development.
Furthermore, the waters here harbor a marine biodiversity different from that of the Caribbean Sea. Scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts can explore unique marine species in these waters, adding a new dimension to the island's exploration.
Moreover, the North Atlantic also houses authentic villages and cultural sites rich in history and local traditions. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in local life, discover lively markets, traditional festivals, and meet the locals.
Finally, by exploring the North Atlantic, you contribute to distributing tourist flows more evenly across the island, which can have a positive impact on local communities and the environment.
Discovering the Cultural History of the North Atlantic and Its Influence on Local Life:
The history of Martinique's North Atlantic is marked by numerous revolts and strikes that occurred in the past. Some even spread to the southern part of the island, leading to massive demonstrations.
Today, this region still bears the scars of its heavy past but has bounced back and become essential for the island's development. Indeed, the Atlantic coast is known for having good agricultural land. It is on these lands that a large part of the vegetables found in the market and on store shelves are grown.
The specialty of the region is the cultivation of "root vegetables" such as dasheen, yams, etc.
Culture and Heritage:
Each region of the island has its own specificities. In the North Atlantic, tradition is very present in both work and everyday life. In the fields, agricultural workers often gather to work to the rhythm of drums. This is called "Laso tè." This practice, inherited from the time of slavery, serves to fertilize the land, plant new seeds, and collaborate together while trying to ignore the rather harsh working conditions.
Another deeply rooted practice is cockfighting in the pits. The last functional pit is located in the magnificent commune of Sainte-Marie. It is a convivial moment that brings together enthusiasts and curious onlookers. Evenings are often organized around this spectacle, which also includes performances of Bèlè, a traditional dance of the island.
Outdoor Activities:
Hiking:
When one thinks of Martinique, it is difficult not to think of its beautiful and long hikes. Among those that can be done in the North Atlantic, we find the hike of the Caravelle Peninsula. As its name suggests, it is located on a piece of land connected to the commune of Trinité.
Its popularity comes from the richness offered by this hike throughout the course because La Caravelle is a nature reserve where there is an abundant flora and fauna on both land and water. It is also an opportunity for diving enthusiasts to explore this marine biodiversity.
But that's not all! La Caravelle also houses a lighthouse, which is still functional, where hikers usually gather once the effort is over, with the reward of a magnificent view of the ocean and neighboring communes.
The town of Gros-Morne offers quad biking hikes. The circuit includes different spots in the north such as rivers, viewpoints, and tasting stops. The favorite of hikers is, of course, the one to the JM distillery in Macouba.
Fishing:
For those who enjoy fishing, you are in luck! There are several interesting spots for fishing in the North Atlantic of the island. Among these, we find the Tombolo, ideal for cane fishing. It is an islet in Sainte-Marie, connected by a sandbar. At certain times of the year, it is possible to visit it and admire its view overlooking the entire city.
In Trinité, there is the Bay of Treasure. It is known for being an excellent fishing spot. The shallow waters and rocky formations make it a suitable habitat for a variety of fish.
Finally, in Marigot, there is Anse Charpentier. It is a favorite spot for local fishermen. The ocean currents in this region attract different fish species, making it a good place for line fishing.
The Distilleries of the North:
In the North Atlantic, there are three distilleries: Saint-James in Sainte-Marie, Habitation Saint-Etienne in Gros-Morne, and JM in Macouba. Let's focus on the Saint-James distillery and its Rum Museum.
Saint-James is the first distillery to have been created in Martinique. At its inception, it was located on the slopes of Montagne Pelée. However, following the eruption of the volcano, its owners decided to settle in the large commune of Sainte-Marie.
Today, the distillery offers several rums of recognized quality and titled worldwide. It also offers exceptional rums, labeled AOC. You can visit it every day, alone or with a guide.
The highlight of the distillery is its little train, which allows you to take a ride through the sugar cane and banana fields used for rum production, among other things. Finally, this distillery allows you to take a leap into the past, following the traces of rum thanks to the only and unique rum museum on the island.
In closing this captivating journey through the North Atlantic of Martinique, one certainty emerges: this less-explored region is a hidden treasure that undoubtedly deserves to be discovered. Landscapes sculpted by time and nature, authentic culture that