Visit the most beautiful homes in Martinique
We take you to discover the most beautiful homes in Martinique. Take some time to learn more about the history of rum and discover the fabulous cultural and architectural heritage of the Ile aux Fleurs.
Read also: our proposed itineraries to explore Martinican heritage.
Habitation Clément is located in the heart of a huge sugar cane plantation in the town of François , on the Atlantic coast of Martinique. This sublime Creole house is one of the few to be totally open to the public . It originally bore the name Habitation Acajou, before being bought and saved from bankruptcy by Homère Clément in 1887. In
addition to the main house and its “wasp-waist” architecture , you will be able to discover during your visit the gardens of the Domaine Clément, as well as several outbuildings including the Bush-Mitterrand hut and the Léo hut. Finally, don’t miss the old distillery, a major witness to industrial activity and the history of rum in Martinique.
Practical information: Habitation Clément , 97 240 Le François. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Admission €8/13.
habitation clement rhum martinique Habitation Clément, Le François
The Saint-Etienne dwelling and its superb gardens
Located in Gros-Morne, in the heart of Martinique, the Saint-Etienne dwelling was built at the beginning of the 19th century . First dedicated to the cultivation of sugar cane, Amédée Aubéry transformed it into a distillery in 1882. It was the latter who created the legend HSE, one of the most famous Martinican rums.
It is now possible to visit the old Foudres of the HSE distillery, classified as historical monuments . They are a superb example of Martinican heritage . In the gardens of the property, you will discover more than 200 species of plants and flowers which have enabled this park to obtain the “ Remarkable Garden ” label .
Practical information : Habitation Saint-Etienne , 97 213 Gros Morne. Every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free access.
Located in the famous Mount Pelée plantation , the Depaz distillery or Château Depaz was rebuilt in the 1920s, following its total destruction during the terrible eruption of 1902. A true copy of the original Perrinelle estate, the Depaz estate is a quite unique place in Martinique.
You will discover here an exceptional place nestled in lush greenery , at the foot of the vertiginous slopes of Mount Pelée. When you come, you can visit the distillery, the emblematic Case à Louisette , as well as a small museum presenting the history of the property and old tools.
Practical information: Depaz Distillery, 97 250 Saint-Pierre. Visits possible from Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. (closed at 3.30 p.m. on Saturday).
The unmissable Saint-James habitation
Installed in the heart of a superb colonial house , the Saint-James distillery is emblematic in Martinique. It is also one of the most beautiful Creole residences on the island. It was founded in 1765 by the Reverend Father Edmond Lefébure, a learned alchemist who distilled cane wine in complete secrecy.
The Saint-James estate now houses the only Rum museum in Martinique . You will discover an incredible exhibition of vintage photographs, as well as a collection of objects and tools used in the production of rum. In the house of distillation, you can learn more about the manufacturing processes of the famous local beverage. Don’t forget: alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health!
Practical information : Distillerie Saint-James , 97 230 Sainte-Marie. Open every day. Free admission to the museum and €5 for a guided tour of the distillery.
So, are you ready to admire Martinican architecture while following the rum route ? If you have other suggestions for accommodation to discover in Martinique, do not hesitate to let us know.