Races in Martinique

Right in the heart of the Caribbean, the Island of Flowers 🌺 is awaiting your visit. With its rich cultural blend of French and Caribbean influences, Martinique, like its neighboring island Guadeloupe, welcomes you - dear nature and astonishing landscapes lovers. A visit to Martinique means embarking on the ascension of volcanic summits, getting lost in the heart of tropical forests, wandering through agricultural sugar cane and banana plantations, and leisurely strolling along beautiful unspoiled beaches 🌴.

As you've probably gathered, Martinique is a delight for nature lovers. Come test your legs in the warm sand of Grande Anse du Diamant, Anse des Salines or Anse Noire, or elevate your heart rate through hikes in the tropical forest or along the island's gorgeous coastal trails. But the ultimate challenge, where a real change of scenery is guaranteed, lies beyond the clouds, at Montagne Pelée, an active volcano standing at nearly 1400m (4590 ft) of elevation 😱 !

If you're one for challenges, try outstretching yourself over nearly 64 miles in the tropical wild during the Tchimbé Raid (and take pride in participating in this ultra trail, as it's a part of the racing community's history!). But be mindful of the "matoutous", a type of red and yellow tropical spider you may encounter in the forest (double 😱).

The island also has a fascinating history to share. Think underwater wrecks, spectacular views and interesting remnants. That's the town of Saint-Pierre at the island's north. Further south, you'll find Martinique's capital, Fort-de-France, which will charm you with its monuments bearing witness to the island's colonial past: Fort Saint-Louis, the Courthouse, and Saint-Louis Cathedral with its distinctive bell tower, as well as Schoelcher Library, are must-visits. If you want to end your visit in style, head to Saint-Anne, with your shades 😎, to run past artisanal markets, local restaurants... the complete package!

Devouring miles against idyllic landscapes? Sounds like a dream, right? Defeating the stopwatch under these conditions will seem like a piece of cake for you. On your agenda, choose from TransMartinique, la Ronde des Caps, Semi-Marathon international de Fort de France, and Driv' du Manikou. Mind you, from June to November, you might require some breaks due to cyclones, unless you run faster than the wind itself 🤔).

In case you didn't know, during your running endeavours in Martinique, you will most likely walk run in the footsteps of Aimé Césaire (the poet, not the sitcom character 🙄), as his name is immortalized on many places, monuments, and streets. Yes, running and culture form a perfect blend in Martinique, just like rum and bananas. Now that's an athletic and cultured combo! 💪

If the best reward for you is pleasing your palate, in Martinique, you are in for a treat! Lining the crystal clear waters of la baignoire de Joséphine, savor the taste of "poulet boucané" or "Ti-nain morue", paired with a glass of Martinique's rum. Now your stomach is as well-conditioned as your legs!

Pack your bags for Martinique, and don't forget to stay hydrated under the Caribbean sun!