An international light-sailing regatta, hiking trails and a church with a simple design featuring brick, sand, glass and wood give Schœlcher a variety of travel highlights. When planning, you can choose a specific focus: nautical sports, a hike, or architecture and history. The Semaine Nautique offers a seasonal highlight; the trails and historic sites explore other themes.
Regatta and Water Sports
The Semaine Nautique Internationale de Schœlcher takes place every year during the Carnival holidays in February or March. As an international light-sailing regatta in Martinique, it features in the official calendar of major nautical events of the Fédération Française de Voile. Every year, nearly a hundred participants from Europe, the Americas and the Caribbean islands compete against sailors from Martinique; numbers may vary from year to year. Competitions include dinghies, sport catamarans, Tempest boats and windsurfing. Since the dates and programme may vary each year, check the details for your travel year.
At the Anse Madame watersports centre, the Cercle Nautique de Schoelcher offers windsurfing, Laser and Optimist sailing, Hobie Cat sailing, sea rowing and stand-up paddling. Equipment for hire includes windsurf boards, dinghies, catamarans, kayaks, rowing boats and stand-up paddleboards. Courses for beginners and advanced participants are also available. This club offers several ways to enjoy nautical activities in one place: on the water, with hired equipment or as part of a course. Check operating hours and course and equipment-hire availability directly before your trip.
Hiking Trails and History
The An Ba So hike begins in the hinterland of the Fond Lahaye district in Schœlcher. It is 1.4 kilometres long, rated Level 1 and has an elevation gain of 120 metres; the stated duration is 30 minutes. Distance, elevation gain and duration provide different points of reference when planning a hike. Trail conditions may vary.
Another hiking trail crosses the grounds of Batterie Sainte-Catherine, a site for discovery and remembrance. The battery was built in 1778 as part of the defence system of the Baie de Fort-Royal, the former name of the Baie de Fort-de-France. This system extended from Case-Pilote to Îlet à Ramiers and the Anses d’Arlet. Its historical context therefore extends beyond the individual fortification to encompass a vast defence system.
Architecture and Other Experiences
The Église Notre-Dame-de-la-Nativité offers an architectural perspective. It was completely restored in 1988. Its bright, clean style is reflected in a simple design featuring brick, sand, glass and wood. Fonds Rousseau is a protected site and is included in the inventory of historic monuments.
For another activity, Clip’n Climb Martinique offers climbing experiences in a fun and sociable atmosphere. Check the latest opening and booking information before visiting.
Plan your travel dates around the theme you would like to experience in Schœlcher.
Discover more destinations: Fort-De-France Bay, Saint-Joseph, Le Lamentin
Return to the broader travel overview: Fort-De-France.
