Martinique Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the beauty of Martinique with the Martinique Road Trip! Starting in the city of Lamentin, this 7-day trip takes you through 315 kilometers of winding roads and stunning landscapes. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore the towns of Le Diamant, Anse des Salinas, Tartane, and Saint Pierre, each offering its own unique attractions. Beaches, lush vegetation, and incredible views await you in this tropical paradise. The best time of year to take the Martinique Road Trip is between December and April, when the weather is warm and sunny. The roads are in excellent condition and the journey is suitable for any driver. However, it is important to note that some roads are narrow and curvy, so please drive with caution. This road trip also requires a higher budget, but the memories and experiences you'll take away will be worth it. So, grab your bags and get ready for a journey of a lifetime!
7
number of days
324 km
route length
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budget
family
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on the right
traffic direction
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accident level
START
Lamentin
Distance 324 km
Driving time 11.5 h
Pace: slow
74.5 kWh
Airports
FDF
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Lamentin is the perfect starting point for a Martinique Road Trip. Located just a few miles east of the capital, Fort-de-France, it is easily accessible by car. The closest international airport, Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (FDF), offers car rentals for those traveling by air.
This vibrant town boasts plenty of sightseeing opportunities. For a dose of culture, check out the nearby Musée Régional d'Histoire et d'Ethnographie de Martinique, or the former sugar plantation, Habitation Latouche, which is now a museum. Nature lovers should make time to visit the Parc National de la Martinique, a tropical paradise teeming with wildlife. Or, take a drive down to the beach for a relaxing day in the sun.
For a unique experience, head to the Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires, where you can learn about the history, culture and customs of Martinique. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a day trip to the nearby island of Dominica, just a short ferry ride away?
No matter what type of traveler you are, Lamentin is sure to have something for you. So make sure to include it in your Martinique Road Trip plans!
1
Lamentin
- Le Diamant
Distance 43 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: slow
9.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the first stage of your road trip! Starting in Lamentin, Martinique, you will be driving 44 km to Le Diamant in less than 2 hours. The road is winding in some sections, and narrow in others, so be sure to drive carefully. Along the way, you can visit the La Caravelle Beach, known for its crystal clear waters, or the Diamond Rock, an impressive rock formation in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. You can also take a break in Trois-Îlets, a small fishing village located at the northern tip of Martinique. Don't forget to take some time to explore the stunning beaches, the colonial architecture, and the local cuisine. Finally, you'll reach Le Diamant, where you can find the Diamond Beach, a beautiful beach with white sand and turquoise waters. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Le Diamant - Martinique - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Le Diamant
- Anse des Salinas
Distance 38 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: slow
8.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your road trip in Le Diamant, Martinique, and enjoy the 37km drive to Anse des Salinas. The drive is expected to take fewer than an hour, and you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. As you drive, take note of the winding roads and narrow sections, as well as the beautiful scenery that awaits you.
The first stop of your journey should be the iconic Diamond Rock, a volcanic plug off the coast of Le Diamant. Here, you can take in the stunning views and explore the rock's many caves and grottos.
Next, make your way to Anse des Salinas, a tranquil beach that's perfect for swimming and sunbathing. There's also a local seafood restaurant, so you can enjoy a delicious meal before continuing your journey.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Anse des Salinas - Martinique - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Anse des Salinas
- Tartane
Distance 60 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: slow
13.8 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Anse des Salinas in Martinique to Tartane! This 59km journey will take you less than 2 hours to complete and is one of the most scenic drives in the region. As you drive, you'll be surrounded by picturesque landscapes and winding roads. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the views!
Your first stop should be Anse des Salines, a stunning beach with crystal clear waters, perfect for a relaxing swim. After that, make sure to check out the ruins of the 18th century Château Dubuc, a former sugar plantation. As you continue your journey, you'll drive past the beautiful Grand Anse, a beach surrounded by lush vegetation.
Finally, you'll reach Tartane, a fishing village with a vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Here, you can visit the 19th century Fort Tartane, a former military fortification, or take a stroll along the waterfront.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Tartane - Martinique - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipédia
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4
Tartane
- Grand Riviere
Distance 58 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: slow
13.2 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Tartane to Grand Riviere, and experience the beauty of Martinique! This 56 km journey will take you less than two hours, and you will be able to witness the picturesque landscapes, scenic roads, and winding sections along the way. Be sure to keep your eyes open, as the narrow sections of the road will require your full attention. On your way, you can visit the beautiful beaches of Tartane and Grand Riviere, or take a stroll around the picturesque village of Tartane. You can also explore the nearby hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Don't forget to check out the Itinerary of this stage to find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Grand Riviere - Martinique - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Grand Riviere
- Saint Pierre
Distance 39 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: slow
9.0 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Grand Riviere to Saint Pierre! This stretch of the journey is just 39 km long, and can be completed in less than an hour. As you drive along, you will be charmed by the winding roads, lush vegetation and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
Be sure to make a stop in Grand Riviere, where you can explore the beautiful beach, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the nearby mangrove forest. Then, continue your journey to Saint Pierre, where you can discover the history of the city and its unique culture. Don't miss the chance to visit the ruins of the old city, and take in the breathtaking views of the harbor and the volcano.
For a truly unique experience, drive along the narrow roads that connect the two cities. Enjoy the stunning scenery and the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the journey!
Saint Pierre - Martinique - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Saint Pierre - Martinique - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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6
Saint Pierre
- Fort de France
Distance 35 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: slow
8.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a road trip from Saint Pierre to Fort de France and explore the best of Martinique! The drive is only 33 km and takes less than an hour, so you can easily fit in a few stops along the way. The winding road offers spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea, so make sure to keep an eye out for the perfect photo opportunity! Visit the ruins of the Château Dubuc, an 18th century fort, and take in the beautiful views of the bay. Visit the Musée de la Pagerie, a museum dedicated to the life of Empress Josephine, who was born in Martinique. Stop by the Fort Saint Louis, a 17th century fort, and explore its cannons and ramparts. Don't forget to visit the Parc de la Savane, a stunning park with lush gardens, a lagoon, and a sculpture garden. Finally, end your journey at Fort de France, the capital of Martinique. Here you can find a selection of restaurants, shops, and attractions. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Fort de France - Martinique - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Fort de France
- Lamentin
Distance 52 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: slow
12.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip that starts in Fort de France, Martinique and ends in Lamentin, 47 km away. The drive should take no more than two hours and the road is very scenic. In some sections the road is very winding, so please pay attention to the road. In other sections the road will be narrow, so it is important to drive slowly and carefully. Along the way, you can visit the Fort Desaix, a historical fort from the 18th century in Fort de France, and the Lamentin Beach, a beautiful beach in Lamentin. There are also many restaurants and cafes where you can have a bite to eat. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful sights of Martinique!
Lamentin - Martinique - Middle America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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Lamentin
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Located in the south of Martinique, Lamentin is the perfect ending point for the "Martinique Road Trip". Known as the agricultural capital of the island, it offers a unique experience to travelers.
The first stop for visitors should be the Schoelcher Museum, which houses the largest collection of artifacts from the island's colonial past. Not far away is the former sugar plantation, Habitation Anse Latouche, which provides a fascinating insight into the island's history.
The town of Lamentin is also home to two of Martinique's finest beaches. Plage de l'Est is the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon, while Plage de l'Ouest offers a more rugged experience, with its rocky coastline.
Car-enthusiasts will enjoy the nearby Circuit de Lamentin, where they can race around the track in their own car. The town is also home to some of Martinique's best restaurants, serving up local delicacies such as accras and colombo.
For those traveling to Lamentin by air, the closest international airport is Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (FDF), located just a short drive from the town.
From its fascinating history to its delicious cuisine, Lamentin is the perfect ending point for the "Martinique Road Trip".
Martinique Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Lamentin
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End:
Lamentin
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Distance:
324 km
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Stay:
7 days
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Getting there:
Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (FDF)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, May, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the captivating Martinique Road Trip, a 7-day exploration spanning approximately 315 kilometers. Commencing from the town of Lamentin, this journey weaves through the heart of Martinique's stunning landscapes, taking you to charming coastal towns like Le Diamant, Anse des Salinas, Tartane, and the historic Saint Pierre. You will be treated to a tapestry of pristine beaches, dense rainforests, and awe-inspiring vistas.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Lamentin: Not just the starting point, but also home to the island's main airport and a hub for local rum distilleries, offering insights into the island's rum production.
- Le Diamant: Famous for the iconic Diamond Rock, a majestic basalt island that juts from the sea, and its long stretches of white sandy beaches, Le Diamant is a haven for both history buffs and sun seekers.
- Anse des Salinas: Known for its tranquil, turquoise waters and soft, sandy shores, this destination is ideal for those looking to unwind in a serene setting.
- Tartane: A surfer's paradise with its renowned breaks and an authentic fishing village feel, Tartane provides a glimpse into the island's maritime culture.
- Saint Pierre: Once destroyed by the devastating 1902 eruption of Mount Pelée, which killed nearly 30,000 inhabitants, Saint Pierre is a site of rich history with compelling ruins and a rebuilt town that's a testament to Martinique's resilience.
Best Time to Go:
The peak time for a Road Trip in Martinique is between December and April, coinciding with the dry season. During these months, you can expect warm, sunny climates that are perfect for beach days and outdoor explorations without the hindrance of the rainy season's frequent downpours.
Potential Risks:
Exercise caution while navigating Martinique's Roads, as some can be narrow, winding, and steep, particularly in mountainous areas. Staying vigilant and driving defensively will help ensure a safe journey across the island's diverse terrains.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The route showcases the island's diversity, from the bustling markets of Fort-de-France to the serene botanical gardens in Balata.
- Martinique boasts a rich architectural heritage, including the unique Creole houses that blend French colonial and African influences.
- The local Creole cuisine is a culinary adventure, with dishes like accras (cod fritters) and colombo (curry) blending French, African, and East Indian flavors.
- Martinique's official language is French, but many locals also speak Creole, a colorful and expressive language born from the island's multicultural legacy.
A good choice for:
The Martinique Road Trip is more than just a drive; it's a journey through a land of contrasts where European elegance meets tropical exuberance. With its compelling mix of natural beauty and cultural depth, Martinique offers a Road Trip experience that caters to the adventurous, the curious, and the laid-back traveler alike. Plan ahead, immerse yourself in the island's vibrant culture, and you'll discover why Martinique is truly the `Isle of Flowers.`
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