Set between Dominica and St Lucia, the French Caribbean island of Martinique offers picturesque beaches, verdant rainforest and an intriguing history — as well as some top-notch rum! Particularly popular with visitors from France, Martinique boasts a wide range of accommodation options, from cosy guesthouses to blissful boutique hotels, catering to a whole spectrum of budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Martinique promises Creole charm aplenty, and a real taste of the island’s leafy, laid-back style.
Martinique’s southern half is its most touristic, home to many of the island’s hotels, delicious eateries and cultural sites, as well as being fringed with beautiful beaches. Those on the Caribbean side have a reputation for being calmer and more protected than the Atlantic Ocean beaches — ideal for tranquil swims or days of sandcastle-building with the kids. The sandy stretches of Grande Anse des Salines and Pointe Marin in the Sainte-Anne area are popular for good reason!
Beaches aside, head to the island’s capital of Fort-de-France for evidence of the French-Creole architectural fusion which makes Martinique so special. Whether you’re on the hunt for some gorgeous beachwear, spices or a bottle of local rum, this is absolutely the place to go. Across the bay sits Les Trois-îlets, a historic town best-known as the birthplace of Napoleon’s first wife, Josephine. Her family’s eighteenth-century sugar plantation is now open to visitors as La Pagerie Museum, whilst the nearby La Savane des Esclaves details the history of slavery in Martinique through moving, informative exhibitions and a wonderful medicinal garden.
The north, on the other hand, is Martinique’s eco-tourism centre, enveloped in the lush rainforest which covers almost one-third of the island, and dominated by dramatic Mount Pelée. Don’t miss hiking through the verdant undergrowth, discovering cascading waterfalls and spotting all manner of flora and fauna. Close to the island’s northern tip sits Habitation Céron, an old plantation with spectacular gardens and an excellent alfresco restaurant — highly recommended for foodies or nature lovers eager to marvel at towering trees and bright tropical flowers. The coastal town of Saint-Pierre, at the foot of Mount Pelée, is also worth a stop. Destroyed within minutes when the volcano erupted in 1902, the town was previously a key cultural and trading hub. It has since been rebuilt, and the nearby bay is great for diving amidst the wrecks of fishing boats, sunk during the blast. Getting out on the water is also a brilliant way to see the island’s many wonders, whether on a day cruise or a fun, family snorkeling trip.
Back in the south, round things off at Habitation Clément, a striking rum distillery with extensive tropical gardens, as well as a contemporary art gallery. Pick up a bottle to sip at home, and retreat to one of the best places to stay in Martinique for fantastic fresh seafood and the chance to bask in the sunshine.
