Marigot Grand-Case

The French side of Saint Martin covers the northern 53 km² of the island, about 60 % of the territory. It rolls out its landscapes from the heights of Pic Paradis (424 m, the island's highest point) to the most preserved western beaches — all facing the sunset, without the dazzling morning light. This area concentrates the most authentic and refined experiences of a Saint Martin trip: the capital Marigot for Creole culture and shopping, Grand-Case for gastronomy, and a string of western beaches (Baie Nettlé, Baie Rouge, Friar's Bay, Happy Bay) for swimming and relaxation.

Marigot is the French administrative capital, a charming little colonial town with a lively waterfront. Fort Saint-Louis (1789), built at King Louis XVI's request by Governor Jean Sébastien de Durat, dominates the bay from its hill — panoramic view over the bay, Anguilla and the coastal silhouette. The Marina Royale welcomes yachts and sailboats. The Wednesday and Saturday morning market (waterfront) is the traditional gathering for Saint Martiners for exotic fruits, spices and fresh fish. The Saint Martin History and Archaeology Museum traces Amerindian history, colonisation and slavery.

Grand-Case, 15 minutes north of Marigot, is the gastronomic capital of the French Antilles. Its main street (1.5 km along the beach) lines up more than 30 restaurants — from the family Creole lolo to the Michelin-starred restaurant. The sunset over the bay is one of the most beautiful in the Antilles. The Mardis de Grand-Case (January to April) close the street to traffic and bring in artisans and entertainment in the evening.

The western beaches are the other jewel of the French side. Baie Nettlé (golden sand, protected lagoon, hotels), Baie Rouge (white sand, spectacular red cliffs, wilder), Friar's Bay (family-friendly, two famous lolos: Friar's Bay Beach Café and Kali's Beach Bar), Happy Bay (deserted, 15-min walk access from Friar's Bay), Plum Bay (snorkelling, ideal for fish and turtles) and Long Bay (wild, near Terres Basses). Sandy Ground, a narrow sand strip between lagoon and sea, hosts popular restaurants and the marina.