Marigot, St. Martin

Once a sleepy fishing village, Marigot became St. Martin's capital during the reign of Louis XVI, who built Fort Louis to defend the colonial settlement's harbor warehouses. The formidable walls and cannons of the ruins overlook Marigot Bay and are well worth the short hike up. The town itself charms visitors with winding streets and colorful buildings. Restored St. Martinoise-style houses are now boutiques for luxury goods, all duty-free, while Marigot Market is a melting pot for local foods, spices, art and crafts. This is the place to sample mauby, a bark-based infusion popular in the Caribbean. Dining here is superb, from international cuisines to French and Creole dishes and delicious wines. Also nearby are the famed eateries of Grand Case, arguably the Caribbean's best. Marigot is a great base for exploring some of St. Martin's 37 golden sand beaches, from quiet and unspoiled shores to lively hubs of activity.