Marigot and the French Side

The island is famously shared between two nations, and crossing the open, unmarked border to the French side, Saint-Martin, brings a distinct change of flavour. Its capital, Marigot, is a charming town with an unmistakably French Caribbean atmosphere, set around a pretty harbour and yacht-filled marina. Above it, the ruins of the eighteenth-century Fort Louis offer sweeping views over the bay and, on a clear day, to Anguilla. The town charms with its French cafes, patisseries, boutiques and a lively, colourful morning market selling produce, spices and crafts, giving a sophisticated, Gallic counterpoint to the busier Dutch side.

What you actually see

• The Marigot market - the lively French-Caribbean morning market.
• Fort Louis - the hilltop ruins and sweeping views.
• The harbour and marina - the pretty yacht-filled waterfront.
• The French cafes and boutiques - the Gallic dining and shopping.

When to go

December to April, the dry season, for the best weather; the Marigot market is at its most colourful in the mornings, especially on market days, and the French side's cafes and restaurants are a highlight at any time. The border is open and unmarked, so crossing between the two nations is effortless.

Honest expectations

Marigot is a relatively small and, since the severe 2017 Hurricane Irma, still-recovering town, so its appeal is its charming French-Caribbean atmosphere, market, fort views and dining rather than major attractions, and a few hours suffices; the wider French side offers beaches and the gourmet village of Grand Case. As a sophisticated, Gallic-flavoured capital with a pretty harbour, lively market and fine French-Caribbean dining, though, Marigot is a delightful contrast to the Dutch side and a highlight of the shared island.

Nearby

Grand Case, the French-side beaches and the Dutch side are close by.