Most Beautiful Places in Martinique

| © Tuul and Bruno Morandi / Alamy
Maria Menegaki

Known as the Flower of the Caribbean or the Rum Capital of the World, Martinique offers a seductive mix of impressive landscapes and fascinating history. Where summer never ends and attitude wears its brightest colors, an irresistible blend of French and Caribbean culture creates the perfect setting for unforgettable moments. Read our guide to discover the most bewitching places on the island.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Saint-Pierre

Founded by French settlers, this used to be the most important town in Martinique, also called the Paris of the Caribbean. Everything changed when the majestic Mount Pelée erupted in 1902, destroying Saint-Pierre and killing thirty thousand people. Never restored to its former glory, the city is now a center of a sugar-producing area with a geological laboratory and a volcanological museum and a reminder of nature’s power. Wander through the historic ruins and head to one of the dive sites to swim alongside the wrecks of ships that sank in the explosion.

The capital of Martinique, the main port and a starting point for island adventurers, Fort-de-France lies on the west coast of the island. Besides exploring the numerous shopping opportunities, dedicate a few hours to explore historic sites as well as some museums where you will learn about the area’s pre-Columbian and colonial past.

Diamond Rock

© agefotostock / Alamy

Although Le Diamant hosts several marvelous beaches, it is Diamond Rock that most people come to see. This small uninhabited island has a long naval history as a fortress in the Napoleonic wars and a great value as the last refuge for several snake species. Due to the nearby underwater cave which hosts a spectacular display of sea fans and corals, it is also a popular destination for scuba divers.

Le Carbet

Located in the northwest part of Martinique, Le Carbet is home to peaceful beaches, the supposed landing site of Christopher Columbus in June of 1502 and the town where Gauguin lived and painted almost four centuries later. Do not miss the gardens, the rum distillery and the popular ship wreck.

Jardin de Balata

With such a rich flora and fauna, it is no surprise that one of the finest botanical gardens in the world is situated in Martinique. Featuring thousands of tropical plants as well as ponds punctuated with water lilies and lotus blossoms, Jardin de Balata is owned by a passionate horticulturalist. When you’re not strolling through the well-marked paths, there is always an awe-inspiring view to enjoy in the magical kingdom of flowers and hummingbirds.

Route de la Trace

The road that leads to Balata is no ordinary highway. Known as La Route de la Trace, it is the island’s most scenic and one of the oldest roads in Martinique dating back to the 18th century thanks to the Jesuit Missionaries. Running through the heart of the lush interior rain-forest to Mount Pelée, a quick drive will reveal why Martinique is known as the Island of Flowers.

Saint-Anne

This is a picturesque town is the island’s southernmost village and one of the prettiest. Although you will find many shops, restaurants and markets, you will soon realize that the main attractions are the white sand beaches. Les Salines is probably the most famous among them: a heavenly lengthy stretch of sand complete with clear blue waters.

Ajoupa-Bouillon

At the base of Mount Pelée you will find the village of Ajoupa-Bouillon, well known for its colorful flowers. Make sure to visit the botanical trail called Les Ombrages and Gorges de ls Falaise, a series of small gorges along the Falaise River that lead to an alluring waterfall.

Caravelle Peninsula

The southern coastline of La Trinité is a marvelously wild and unspoiled peninsula where you will find plenty of things to see and do. The protected land of Caravelle is remarkable for the wide range of landscapes from savannah-type terrain to mangrove forests and a rich biodiversity. To fully appreciate the natural treasures of the reserve, nothing beats a hike dotted with superb viewpoints.

Grand’ Rivière

A small and sleepy fishing village tucked beneath coastal cliffs is one of the most picturesque places you may come across. Often completely cut off from the rest of the island after heavy rains, Grand’ Rivière is where you will find fresh seafood, colored boats and the huge challenging waves of the Atlantic.

landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Winter Sale Offers on Our Trips

Incredible Savings

X
Edit article