Overview
The best route to the North Island!
There are several routes one can take to reach the northern part of the island. Our favorite is the coastal road which passes many of the towns and villages that line the waterfront. There are several you will pass before reaching Le Carbet, which is where Columbus landed in 1502 and the first French settlers arrived in 1635. It is fun to imagine Columbus' arrival here, which really was the beginning of further settlers and visitors over many years. Gauguin, the Impressionist artist, settled here as well for awhile before heading for Tahiti as the village is so picturesque and appealing.
Our first stop will be at a family owned distillery for a tasting. Only Martinique produces a special 'rhum agricole' under the official A.O.C. label. Connoisseurs rate this rum as the best in the world. Since 1931 this family has preserved the historic recipe for this great product, though we believe the real secret is the volcanic soil sugar cane grows from. The rum is made using exclusively fresh, luxurious blue cane, seasonally harvested and produced at the distillery which is a lovely setting even if you are not interested in rum.
Continuing on we will visit Carbet Beach, black sand, tranquil sea, and a great photo opportunity. If you wish to swim, bring your swimsuit, though this is a short stop.
Your arrival into the town of St. Pierre, which was known as the 'Little Paris of the West Indies', will not disappoint. Though much has changed since it was the cultural and economic capital of Martinique in the early 19th century, over 30,000 people lived here and were assured in 1902 that 'Montagne Pelée' was of no risk to the population than Vesuvius to the Neapolitans. Yet on May 8, 1902, the southwest side of Montagne Pelée exploded into fire and lava and within minutes, all the inhabitants were dead with the exception of one man who had been a prisoner in an underground cell in the prison.
As you head back to Fort-de-France, you will take the most beautiful route ever, with a few stops along the way. You will come upon the Gendarme Waterfalls, reachable by a short nature hike. Another stop will be the Sacred Heart Church, a replica of the Sacre Coeur de Balata in Paris. Magical scenes on both sides of your vehicle surround you as you make your way through gorgeous scenery which truly defines the term 'rainforest', so often used but rarely as flourishing as this setting.
- Rum tasting is included in tour cost. If you wish, you may purchase a bottle to bring home.
- Please note you must have a valid passport to disembark your cruise ship in Martinique. If you do not have your passport, no refunds will be provided.- Maximum group size is 18 passengers.
- You must be at least 18 years old to consume alcohol.
- You must be able to walk approximately 5 minutes to the waterfall.
- Tour requires a minimum of 4 participants.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 09:00 AM, duration: 5 hours
