Fort St. Louis, St. Martin

Fort St Louis, St. Martin

With its commanding presence atop a hilltop, the Fort St. Louis stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring legacy of St Martin. From its origins as a strategic military outpost to its present-day status as a beloved tourist attraction, this iconic structure has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, offering visitors a panoramic view of the past and the present.

Originally built in 1789 by Jean-Sébastien de Durat for King Louis XIV, the Fort St. Louis was designed to protect the island's valuable resources, including sugarcane, coffee, salt, and rum. Its imposing walls and sturdy ramparts are a reminder of the region's tumultuous past, and the fort's strategic location atop a Marigot hill only serves to heighten its impressive stature.

As we gaze upon the Fort St. Louis, we are reminded of the enduring power of human ingenuity and the ability of a single structure to transcend the boundaries of time and space. This iconic landmark continues to captivate and inspire, serving as a beacon of hope and a symbol of the indomitable spirit that is Saint Martin.

Marigot, St. Martin

Nestled on the northern coast of the Caribbean island of Saint Martin, the quaint town of Marigot beckons travelers with its picturesque harbor, historic charm, and array of tantalizing offerings. As the capital of the French collectivity, Marigot exudes a captivating blend of European flair and island vibrancy that is sure to enchant all who visit.

Wander the colorful streets and you'll discover a treasure trove of local boutiques, artisan workshops, and delectable restaurants serving up mouthwatering French-Caribbean cuisine. Be sure to visit the iconic Notre-Dame-de-la-Présentation Cathedral, a stunning 18th-century church that stands as a testament to the town's rich history.

Cruisers Tips

Things we found useful to know when coming in for the first time;

Checking in on the weekends is not obvious, but the best way to check in is at Ile Marine. There are computers there to fill out the forms which are in french, but the gentleman behind the counter was very helpful. You can also check out here for free., and fill up with diesel at the same time provided there isn’t a line.

There is a dinghy dock right next to the ferry terminal and convenient to all things down town.

When you go through the canal to the otherside, there is a movie theatre, budget marine, Island water world all within a dinghy ride and no need to check into the dutch side to visit.

We loved Le Sous Marin, It is a little french cuisine restaurant, behind all the shops near the plaza. The food was so good, and the price was extremely reasonable. All of it homemade, and fresh local produce.

one thing to note is the business tend to close for 2 hours at lunch time and not a lot of things are open over the weekends. We were here in June, off season.