Martinique, with its varied landscapes ranging from beaches to lush mountains, is a true paradise for hiking enthusiasts. Car rental in Martinique will easily give you access to a multitude of trails, each offering a unique experience of Martinique's nature. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a nature walk enthusiast, these hikes accessible by car will allow you to explore the island's hidden treasures at your own pace. Here is a selection of the best hikes to discover during your stay in Martinique.
1. Montagne Pelée (Saint-Pierre)
Montagne Pelée, an active volcano and the island's highest point, is a must-see for hiking enthusiasts. By car, you can reach the village of Morne-Rouge, from where several trails lead to the summit. The climb is demanding, but the panoramic view over the north of the island and the Caribbean is well worth it. Bring good shoes and set off early to avoid late-morning clouds.
2. La Trace des Caps (Sainte-Anne)
This coastal hike in the south of the island is one of Martinique's most beautiful. It links several magnificent beaches, such as Anse Trabaud and plage des Salines. You can reach various starting points by car and choose to hike the whole trail or just part of it. Along the coast, you'll discover a varied landscape of cliffs, sandy beaches and tropical vegetation.
3. The Pitons du Carbet (Fonds-Saint-Denis)
The Pitons du Carbet, a group of vegetation-covered volcanic peaks, offer spectacular hikes in the heart of the rainforest. You can drive to Fonds-Saint-Denis, where several trails are available. The hike to the summit of Morne Piquet, one of the highest pitons, is particularly recommended for seasoned hikers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
4. La Savane des Pétrifications (Sainte-Anne)
This hike transports you to a desert landscape unique to Martinique, with rock formations sculpted by erosion. Accessible by car from the town of Sainte-Anne, this trail offers an easy and enjoyable stroll through fascinating arid nature. You can also enjoy superb views of the Atlantic Ocean along the way.
5. Canal de Beauregard (Fond-Saint-Denis)
Nicknamed “the Jesuit trail”, this hike follows an old irrigation canal through the rainforest. The trail is relatively flat, but requires some caution as it is narrow in places. Accessible by car from the village of Fond-Saint-Denis, this hike offers complete immersion in Martinique's lush nature, with superb views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
6. Les Gorges de la Falaise (Ajoupa-Bouillon)
This hike takes you through spectacular gorges where a river flows surrounded by impressive cliffs. Accessible by car to Ajoupa-Bouillon, the hike is relatively short but requires crossing several waterholes. It's a unique adventure where you can swim in natural pools and admire the raw beauty of the gorges.
7. Cascade de l'Anse Couleuvre (Le Prêcheur)
Accessible by car via a picturesque road along the north coast, this hike takes you through dense rainforest to a magnificent hidden waterfall. The trail is a true immersion in the wilderness, offering a unique setting for a refreshing dip in the shade of lush vegetation.
8. Forêt de Montravail (Sainte-Luce)
Located near Sainte-Luce, this forest offers several easy hiking trails accessible by car. You can stroll through the lush vegetation and enjoy views of the island's south coast. The forest is also dotted with rock carvings that bear witness to Martinique's pre-Columbian history.
9. Morne Larcher (Le Diamant)
This hike is fairly short but very steep, taking you to the summit of Morne Larcher, also known as “the reclining woman”. From the summit, you'll have a breathtaking view of the Bay of Le Diamant and the famous Rocher du Diamant. The starting point is accessible by car, and although the climb is demanding, the breathtaking panoramas more than reward the effort.
10. Grand'Rivière hike (Grand'Rivière)
This emblematic island hike takes you through breathtaking scenery between sea and mountains. Accessible by car from Grand'Rivière, this trail follows the island's northwest coast to Anse Couleuvre. It's a magnificent adventure offering breathtaking panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean and the steep cliffs of the coast. Be careful, you'll be returning by sea, so be sure to warn a fisherman so he can take you back to your starting point!
