At an altitude of 450 m, in the foothills of la Montagne Pelée, Le Morne Rouge is Martinique's highest commune. It was originally only the "upper floors" district of Saint-Pierre, before gaining commune rank in 1889.
Situated on a plateau, surrounded to the north by la Montagne Pelée, to the south by les Pitons du Carbet and to the east by Morne Jacob, Morne-Rouge is the starting point for numerous hikes:the ascent of the Pelée via the Aileron, the beautiful Trace des Jésuites, Morne Jacob, etc.
The cool climate is ideal for growing pineapples and certain tropical flowers. Nature lovers will appreciate the Jardins de l'Estripaut nursery and Mc Intosh Plantation, which takes Martinique's flowers around the world. Another curiosity, the Parc des Palmiers
boasts over 200 species.
A visit to the Maison Régionale des Volcans is a must. Also worth seeing is the replica of the Grotte de Lourdes.
Did you know? "Chanflor" mountain spring water, is extracted from the Mont Béni spring and bottled on site at Morne Rouge. Its naturally protected catchment site guarantees impeccable quality and places it among the purest waters in France.
Morne-Rouge maintains a special cult to Notre Dame de la Délivrande, patron saint and protector of Martinique. The Calvaire de Morne-Rouge, listed as a Historical Monument, welcomes thousands of pilgrims every year on the Sunday following August 30.