Description

Just a few kilometres from the capital, there are many gems of the Martinique forest. The western centre is marked by various hills and the Piton de l’Alma, which offers views of rivers and waterfalls just 20 minutes from the centre. A short hike from the Balata Garden takes you to the Absalon spa, which has unfortunately been abandoned for several years.

Further south, the Didier fountain, a waterfall that supplies the mineral water factory of the same name, can be reached by crossing a fairly well-preserved rainforest.

Following the river southwards, you can discover the Anba So waterfall, another natural wonder of the centre, and also hike along the Jesuit trail and its rich biodiversity. Once used by religious figures during the 17th century, the trail is now visited by many hikers throughout the year. It is iconic and quite popular.

Biodiversity

The central area we have described is similar to the northern part of the island: the rainforest dominates the heights and is full of rivers and waterfalls similar to those in the north.

While the Balata Garden showcases the rich flora of the island with its beautiful flowers, the Jesuit Trail is a playground for botanists, who will find a wide variety of important species of the hygrophilous forest. White gum trees, chestnut trees, river woods and magnolias abound, not to mention tree ferns…

Ecotourism potential

The Didier Fountain, the Balata Garden, the Anba So waterfall, the Absalon spa and the Trace des Jésuites are all interesting options for escaping the city centre of Fort-de-France in less than 30 minutes by car. These places all have great potential in terms of ecotourism. Their history, biodiversity, pools, waterfalls and diverse landscapes invite visitors to enjoy a rich and comprehensive discovery. The legendary Jesuit Trail hike will reward you with a swim in the ‘Trou d’eau’, a small beach in the middle of the forest, as well as a breathtaking view of Mount Pelée at the end of the trail.