The Atlantic coast, or “Coast of Wind”, has a particular charm: the turquoise waters and the contrast between the calmer bays to the south with the constantly tumultuous waves of the Atlantic ocean. The steep volcanic coastline is dominated by the wind and a wild nature. The inland zone has a mild climate and is considered one of the more fertile parts of the island for agriculture.
 

Grand-Rivière

At the extremity of the island, facing across the Dominican canal, this fascinating fishing village is reached by following a road though a thriving forest with steep gullies and towering trees. The place has a mysterious air to it and a natural energy. Due to its’ isolation Grand Rivière has retained much of its’ last century charm, as though suspended in time.

Strung along the small beach of volcanic sand you should stop and admire the rainbow of brightly painted fishing boats. At Grand Rivière the road ends and you can follow a path for 20km taking you to Anse Coulevre on the Caribbean Sea.

Macouba

Essentially an agricultural region dedicated to the cultivation of Bananas and Pineapples.
There is also the distillery that produces the famous JM rum.
The characteristic church of Sainte Anne is said to date back in parts to the XVII Century.
 

Basse-Pointe

Another agricultural region, once the most cultivated part of the island, is home to several large plantations that bare witness to the prosperity of the region’s past.

Leyritz Plantation

Historical dwelling, dating from 1700, immersed in vegetation now operates as a hotel and restaurant maintaining its colonial charm.

Actually closed (February 09)

Ajoupa-Bouillon

A small “flowery” community, the gardens of Ajoupa cultivate tropical flowers destined for export to the European market.
Ajoupa-Bouillon is the starting point for many of the excursions into the heart of the tropical rainforest. By following the river gorge you can climb up to the waterfalls for a refreshing dip.
 

Les Jardins de l'Ajoupa

[open from Monday to Friday  0900/1700]

Tropical flowers from Martinique, free entry

Les Gorges de la Falaise – Ajoupa Bouillon

An unforgettable walk through what is one of the natural treasures of Martinique. Waterfalls with fresh, clean water.

Les Ombrage – Trou Congo, Ajoupa Bouillon

[open every day from 0900 to 1700]

A beautiful botanic and floral garden born from the ruins of an historic rum distillery. A pathway winds its’ way through the tropical forest,. In an hour walk you can marvel at gigantic trees and overwhelming bamboo groves as well as innumerable species of tropical flowers.

Sainte-Marie

Principally agricultural, this “flowery” community facing across the Atlantic offers visitors rich lush countryside, Creole style gardens, forest walks and many interesting places to visit.

The Rum Museum, Plantation Saint-James – Sainte Marie

[Mon-Fri 0900-1700, Sat & Sun 0900-1300]

In the centre of 250 hectares of sugar cane plantation, this antique distillery has been converted into a museum and offers visitors an opportunity to learn all there is to know about the history of Rum and its production. You can sample and purchase various styles of top class rum on the premises.

Fond Saint-Jacques

[Mon-Sat 0900-1700]

Only 5km from Sainte-Anne, there is an old Dominican monastery with a sugar cane plantation dating back to 1660. You can visit the many ruins on the property, including the crushing mill and distilling vats. A cultural centre has been established to maintain the historic chapel and lodgings of the monastery.

The Museum of the Banana

[Mon-Sat 0900-1700 , Sunday and low season 0900-1300]

In a long standing banana plantation there is a park of approximately 4 hectares that supports rare types of banana from all over the world. An opportunity to take a pleasant walk, during which you could assist in the plantation’s cultivation and sample some of this most curious of fruit.

Trinité and the peninsula of the Caravelle

The Caravelle peninsula is a large natural reserve reaching out into the Atlantic ocean. Popular with tourists for its’ natural beauty and wondrous beach.
Tartane is a lively fishing village along the peninsula.
At the very tip of the stretch of land is ruins of the Fort Dubuc, an historic residence from the XVII Century renowned for being the home of a pirate responsible for luring passing ships onto the rocks below, disorientating them with a lantern.