Things to do — Marie-Galante

Marie-Galante is discovered slowly, at the rhythm of an island that has no vocation to hurry.

Visiting the three AOC distilleries is the unmissable experience. Bielle Distillery (centre of the island, founded in 1769) is the best known and most visited — free guided tour, tasting of 4-5 rums (whites, ambers, aged), very comprehensive shop. Bellevue Distillery (Capesterre, owner of the Damoiseau brand also present in Grande-Terre) offers a more technical tour and a quality tasting — very renowned Bellevue range. Poisson Distillery (Père Labat rum) in Grande-Anse is the most traditional — its iconic 59° rum, emblematic of Creole bars, is a must. Allow 1h30-2h per visit, ideally in the morning (8 am-12 pm) in harvest season (February-June) when the stills are running.

Enjoying deserted beaches is the second pillar of the Marie-Galante experience. Anse Canot (north coast) is regularly ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean — 800 m of white sand, turquoise water, few people even in peak season. The sunset is iconic. La Folle Anse (west coast, near Saint-Louis) is huge (3 km of golden sand), perfect for long walks. La Feuillère Beach (Capesterre) is the longest (2 km) and most animated in the south. Petite Anse (south-east coast) is more confidential.

Exploring the villages and heritage: Grand-Bourg has its traditional market (Friday morning maximum animation), its neo-classical church, the Château Murat (former sugar plantation transformed into an eco-museum, €7) that traces the history of slavery and cane. Capesterre is the most lively village (market, festival), with the Bezard Mill (restored windmill, witness to 19th-century sugar industry, €5). Saint-Louis is the most discreet village, ideal for a Creole lunch by the port.