Must-sees

…ity of Martinique's landscapes. On one hand, there are the paradisiacal beaches like Anse Noire, Anse Grand Macabou, and Pointe Faula, where fine sand and turquoise waters invite relaxation. On the other hand, the majestic mountains such as Montagne Pelée and Pitons du Carbet offer unforgettable hikes. Imagine walking in the footsteps of the island's early inhabitants, breathing the mountain's fresh air, and admiring breathtaking panoramas.

Waterfalls and Gardens: Immersion in Greenery

Martinique is teeming with hidden treasures. Among them, waterfalls are true havens of peace. Cascade Didier and Saut du Gendarme, for example, are places where nature reigns supreme. During our last visit, we were amazed by the soothing sound of water and the ambient freshness. Additionally, botanical gardens like Jardin de Balata and Habitation Latouche are living witnesses of the island's biodiversity. Strolling through these gardens is an experience in itself, with every step revealing a new wonder.

Water Activities: The Call of the Ocean

The sea, with its infinite shades of blue and waves caressing the shore, is the beating heart of Martinique. It not only shapes the landscape but also the way of life and culture of the Martinicans. We have had the privilege of sailing aboard a Yole, this traditional boat that embodies the essence of Martinique. With its white sail cutting through the horizon and its hull skimming the water, the Yole is much more than a means of transportation: it reflects a history, a tradition, an ancestral know-how.

Sailing these crystalline waters offered us a unique perspective of the island and allowed us to grasp the vital importance of the sea for locals. It is their source of food, their playground, their workplace, and, above all, an inseparable part of their identity.

But the Martinican sea is not limited to its shimmering surface. Below the water, a whole new world opens up to us. Scuba diving is undoubtedly one of the most memorable activities one can undertake here. The seabeds, with their multicolored corals, exotic fish, and mysterious wrecks, offer breathtaking spectacles. During our dives, the Fer à Cheval site near Diamant proved to be a true treasure. The coral formations, fish shoals, and the water's clarity make it a magical place.

Finally, for those seeking a unique nautical experience, Baignoire de Joséphine is a must-visit. Imagine floating in shallow waters, surrounded by deep blue seas, with the sky reflecting around you. It's a moment of pure serenity, a communion with nature that we cherish with each visit.

History and Culture: The Martinican Soul

Distilleries and Slavery: Two Facets of the Same History

Martinique is rich in history. Distilleries like Saint James and L’Habitation Clément testify to the importance of rum in local culture. During our visits, we were impressed by the expertise of the master distillers. However, it is essential to remember the island's dark past linked to slavery. La Savane des Esclaves is a poignant place that tells this story. Each time we visit this open-air museum, we are moved by the ancestors' stories.

Historic Sites: Time Travel

Every corner of the island tells a story; every stone bears the marks of time. Travelling through its lands, one realizes that Martinique is much more than just a tourist destination: it's an open history book.

The Rocher du Diamant, for example, is not just a rock emerging from the water. It's a symbol of resistance and national pride. During the Napoleonic wars, this rock was the scene of memorable confrontations between the French and the British. Today, as we contemplate it, we can almost see warships forming on the horizon, hear the cannons' roar, and feel the tension of battles long past.

Presqu’île de la Caravelle, on the other hand, is a true natural and historical treasure. It harbors exceptional fauna and flora, along with the ruins of the former Château Dubuc, a silent witness of the colonial era. By wandering through these ruins, one can imagine life as it was at that time, with its splendors and dramas. The stone walls, invaded by vegetation, narrate the stories of the families who lived there, the slaves who worked, and the pirates who sailed these waters.

Finally, the ruins of Château Dubuc offer a poignant glimpse into life during the colonial period. Located in the heart of Martinique, this once majestic castle is now in ruins, yet it remains a powerful testament to the island's past. Walking among the vestiges, one can feel the weight of history, from days of glory to the dark days of slavery.