Flights from Montreal to Philipsburg

The best of St. Maarten

The half-French, half-Dutch island.

Once a refuge for the many pirates who frequented the Caribbean Sea, St. Martin/St. Maarten is now shared between France, on the north side, and the Netherlands, on the south side. This island of multiple personalities, with a tumultuous history, is home to people of many different backgrounds, including British, Haitian, Guadeloupian, Dominican, French and Dutch. The open-air market will charm foodies, while history buffs will love the Creole architecture in Marigot, the capital.

Not to be missed

• Beaches: Relaxing on a beach is a popular pastime for travellers to St. Maarten, and Simpson Bay is a great place to start. For those looking for a bit more seclusion, the white sands of Guana Bay hit the mark while a stop at Maho Beach is memorable mostly for the airplanes that fly directly overhead as they approach the landing strip that is unfathomably close to the water.

• Pic Paradis: For a 360° view of St. Martin and its surroundings, you’ll have to hike up Pic Paradis, the highest point on the island. The scenery is simply breathtaking!

• Fort Louis: Go hiking with friends to discover the ruins of this fort, built in 1767.

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