It's probably when you discover it by boat that Martinique's capital is at its most beautiful. A must-see on your next vacation in Martinique, the Baie des Flamands, which is home to Fort-de-France, is a splendor; this place has been ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world!
Martinique's only major conurbation, Fort-de-France presents the face of a regional metropolis far removed from most visitors' idea of the tropics.
It's probably when you discover it on arriving by boat that Martinique's capital is at its most beautiful. The Baie des Flamands, home to Fort-de-France, is a splendor.To the north, the hills climb up to the foothills of the Pitons du Carbet, whose wooded slopes can be glimpsed. To the south, Cap Salomon closes the bay at Les Trois-Ilets, revealing the beaches of the Anses d'Arlet and the myriads of sea turtles that live there.
The Baie des Flamands takes its name from the Dutch Jews expelled from Brazil in the 17th century, who found refuge in Martinique. Proof of its beauty and uniqueness, in 2011 it was admitted to the exclusive club of the "most beautiful bays in the world" alongside San Francisco Bay in California, Mont Saint Michel Bay in Normandy or Ha-Long Bay in Vietnam.
This discerning club highlights the biodiversity of Fort de France Bay, with its exceptional marine flora and fauna, and the excellent natural management of the Martinique public authorities, notably with the "bay contract".
With the magnificent bay that shelters it, a compact city center that allows you to discover it on foot, or the Parc de la Savane, which hosts all the major events in Foyal life - from carnaval to the July festival - the island's prefecture has plenty to offer.
For an afternoon of shopping, a visit to the Schoelcher Library or simply to feel the heartbeat of Martinique and observe the daily life of the inhabitants at the Grand Marché, a visit to Fort-de-France is a must.
Take advantage of Fort-de-France's city center and meet the local merchants in its pedestrian zone.
It's easy to cross the bay of Fort-de-France thanks to the maritime shuttles that link Martinique's capital to the commune of Trois-Îlets, for example.