Trois-Ilets Travel Guide

Explore Trois-Ilets, Martinique with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more!


Introduction to Trois-Ilets

Trois-Ilets, a commune located in the southwestern part of Martinique, is one of the top tourist destinations known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. The town is situated across from the capital city of Fort-de-France, and is easily accessible by boat or car. This guide will introduce you to all the must-visit places in Trois-Ilets and provide you with all the information you need to plan a perfect itinerary.

List of Places to Visit in Trois-Ilets

When it comes to things to do in Trois-Ilets, there is truly no shortage of options. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and scenic views, here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • La Pagerie Museum: This historical landmark was once the birthplace of Empress Josephine, the wife of Napoleon Bonaparte.
  • Maison de la Canne: Visit this museum and learn about the rich history of sugar cane production on the island.
  • Parc des Floralies: Set amid lush gardens, this park is home to many exotic flora and fauna, including tropical birds and butterflies.

Natural Attractions of Trois-Ilets: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Le Village de la Poterie: Explore the local pottery industry and witness the skilled artisans create unique ceramic pieces.
  • Anse Mitan: A beautiful and popular beach where you can sunbathe, swim, and enjoy various water sports.
  • Pointe du Bout: This scenic point is a great place for sunset watching and offers stunning views of the surrounding waters and mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Trois-Ilets

For adventure seekers, Trois-Ilets offers several hiking and biking trails to explore the natural beauty of the island. Here are some of the best options:

  • Morne Larcher Trail: A steep and challenging hike that rewards you with stunning panoramic views of the island and the sea.
  • Montravail Forest Trail: An easy hike that takes you through a lush forest and offers great birdwatching opportunities.
  • Les Trois-Ilets Coastal Trail: A scenic coastal trail that takes you along rocky cliffs and secluded beaches.

Best Things to Do in Trois-Ilets: Activities and Tours

Apart from exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Trois-Ilets, there are many other activities and tours you can enjoy on the island. Here are our top picks:

  • Catamaran Cruise: Set sail on a catamaran and explore the crystal clear waters of the island, stopping by secluded coves and pristine beaches along the way.
  • Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour: Join a tour and witness these magnificent marine mammals in their natural habitat.
  • Kayaking Adventure: Paddle your way through mangrove forests and explore the hidden bays and beaches of Trois-Ilets.

Week-Long Itinerary for Trois-Ilets

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long vacation in Trois-Ilets:

Day Activities
1 Arrival, check into hotel, relax at Anse Mitan Beach
2 Visit La Pagerie Museum, explore the town center, dine at a local restaurant
3 Hike the Morne Larcher Trail, visit Maison de la Canne
4 Catamaran cruise, snorkeling, and beach hopping
5 Day trip to Fort-de-France, visit the market, and the cathedral
6 Kayaking at Les Anses d’Arlet, visit Pointe du Bout for sunset
7 Departure day, souvenir shopping, and transfer to the airport

Food and Drink Scene of Trois-Ilets

Trois-Ilets offers a diverse culinary scene with mouth-watering dishes and refreshing local beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Accras: Deep-fried cod fritters, sprinkled with local spices.
  • Colombo: A curry-based dish made with meat or fish and spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
  • Blaff: A savory seafood stew, usually made with fish or crab, cooked in a spicy broth with lime and garlic.

Local Beverages

  • Ti Punch: A local cocktail made with rum, lime, and sugar cane syrup.
  • Sorrel: A refreshing drink made from hibiscus flowers, served chilled.
  • Piton Beer: Local beer brewed in the French Caribbean.

Where to Stay in Trois-Ilets: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Trois-Ilets offers a range of accommodations that cater to different preferences and budgets. Here are some of our recommendations:

  • Hotel Bakoua: A luxury beachfront hotel with stunning sea views and top-notch amenities.
  • Residence La Marina: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a great location close to the town center.
  • Villa Madras: A cozy guesthouse with a lush tropical garden and a relaxed atmosphere.

What to Buy in Trois-Ilets: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For souvenirs and local products, head to the local markets and shops in the town center. Here are some popular items to bring back:

  • Rhum Agricole: A local rum made from sugar cane, popular among rum enthusiasts.
  • Madras Fabric: A colorful fabric with traditional Caribbean patterns used for clothing and accessories.
  • Spices and Seasonings: Locally grown spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger, and seasonings like Creole spice mix and hot sauce.

Local Culture and Customs of Trois-Ilets

The people of Trois-Ilets, like most of the Caribbean, have a relaxed and welcoming attitude. You’ll often hear music playing in the streets, and locals love to dance and celebrate. The official language is French, but you’ll hear a mix of Creole and English spoken by locals. Respect for elders is an integral part of the local culture, and visitors are expected to follow dress codes when entering religious places.

Best Time to Visit Trois-Ilets

The best time to visit Trois-Ilets is during the dry season, which runs from January to May. The temperatures are mild, and there is less chance of rainfall. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher rates for accommodations and attractions. If you’re looking for a more affordable and less crowded experience, consider visiting during the shoulder season, from November to December or June to August.

Do’s and Don’ts of Trois-Ilets

Do:

  • Respect local customs and dress codes when visiting religious places.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Bring insect repellent and sunscreen for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Touch or disturb the wildlife or reefs.
  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  • Litter on the beaches or streets.

Safety and Health

Safety in Trois-Ilets

Overall, Martinique is considered a safe place to visit, with low crime rates. However, like any other touristic destinations, be careful with your valuables and avoid walking alone or in isolated areas at night. Pay attention to swimming advisories and dangerous marine life warnings, especially during the rainy season.

Health in Trois-Ilets

Be sure to take standard precautions like drinking bottled water and using sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Also, schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or a travel clinic to discuss any necessary vaccinations you need before traveling to Trois-Ilets.

Getting to Trois-Ilets: Transportation Options and Logistics

To get to Trois-Ilets, you can either fly into Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport or take a ferry from Fort-De-France. Once you arrive, you can rent a car, hire a taxi or take a bus to Trois-Ilets. Public transportation is limited, so it’s recommended to rent a car to explore the island at your own pace.

Airports Near Trois-Ilets

  • Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport: The main airport in Martinique, located about 13 miles from Trois-Ilets, with flights to major cities in Europe, the US, Canada, and Latin America.

Bus Stations Near Trois-Ilets

  • Gare Routière de Fort-de-France: A central bus station located in the capital city Fort-de-France, with connections to Trois-Ilets and other parts of the island.

Other Options

  • Ferry: A ferry service runs between Fort-de-France and Anse Mitan, a neighborhood of Trois-Ilets, with departures every hour.

How to Get Around in Trois-Ilets

To get around Trois-Ilets, you can either rent a car, hire a taxi, or take the local bus service. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and most major attractions and hotels have parking facilities. Taxis are easily available but can be expensive. The bus service is affordable but can be crowded and not suitable for exploring remote parts of the island.

Where to Go Next from Trois-Ilets: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of Martinique, here are some destinations and excursions worth visiting:

  • Mt. Pelée: A challenging hike to the highest peak in Martinique, offering stunning views of the surrounding island.
  • Les Anses-d’Arlet: A picturesque village with beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Saint-Pierre: A town with a rich history, where you can learn about the devastating volcanic eruption that destroyed the town in 1902.

Conclusion

Trois-Ilets, Martinique, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure. Whether you want to relax on a beautiful beach, explore the local museums and landmarks, or experience outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking, Trois-Ilets has something to offer to every traveler. Use this guide to plan your vacation to Trois-Ilets and enjoy the best of what this Caribbean gem has to offer.

The town church. The town church. The Slave Savannah gives an insight in life here during colonial times. The Slave Savannah gives an insight in life here during colonial times.