Sentier des Froussards
A coastal path along the wild northern shore, the island's best walk.
Updated 3 September 2026
The Sentier des Froussards runs along Saint Martin's northern coast between Anse Marcel and the Grand Case side, around six kilometres of marked path over headlands, through dry forest and along cliffs with the Atlantic below and no road, building or facility anywhere on it. It passes Petites Cayes and the Trou de David. It is the best walk on the island and the only one that feels remote.
The landscape
- The wild coast - headlands and cliffs with nothing built along them.
- The dry forest - the vegetation the path runs through.
- Petites Cayes - the empty beach the trail passes.
- The Trou de David - the collapsed sea cave on the route.
When to go
December to April is the dry season and best for walking. Hurricane season runs June to November. Start early: there is no shade on much of it.
What to expect
The path is exposed with no shade or water for most of its length. Sections are rough and steep. Walking one way means arranging transport back.
Nearby
Anse Marcel is at the eastern end, and Grand Case at the western.
What to pack for Sentier des Froussards
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Head torch + spare batteries - Hands-free light is essential; caves are truly dark. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- Grippy closed shoes - Cave floors are wet, muddy and slick with formations. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.