In the north of Martinique, in Fonds-Saint-Denis, a refreshing nature break at the “Saut (du) Gendarme” waterfall.
VIBRANT SERENITY ~ Now is the time to explore, head for “Saut-gendarme” in the heart of the Fonds-Saint-Denis rainforest in Martinique. The adventure begins on the famous “Route de la trace”. Hearing this name, connoisseurs’ ears perk up and eyes open wide with the idea of multitude bends in the road bordering gullies … One key word epitomizes this well-known place: “Peaceful” … What a joy it is, riding smoothly, with open windows; enjoy the green, grandiose, poetically misty setting. Fonds-Saint-Denis is a mountain town: the air is quite humid, along with cool temperatures. Enchantment continues when you pass majestic ferns shaped like huge umbrellas; trees stand like gigantic silhouettes in the background and divide the landscape, adding some relief, as “green nature” spreads out in layers everywhere. Beautiful green walls stand out, one after another along the bends in the road, hypnotic, fascinating… A short break at the sight of a “carbet”, a wooden shelter, gives the opportunity to enjoy the silence. The waterfall is near; stretching is welcome…. Enjoy the relaxing moment.
SAUT-GENDARME OR SAUT DU GENDARME (THE GENDARME’S JUMP) ~ Of course, this name evokes legends. Here is the most common story: mounted gendarmes from Saint-Pierre stopped there for their horses to drink. One of them allegedly fell while trying to climb the rock face up the waterfall. Others claim that a horse leaned over top to drink and knocked the rider down … Today, the site is reached by foot. Getting there is pleasant, although quick if you thought you were going on a real hike: not even 10 minutes. Ten or so wooden steps lead down, framed by plants. The water meanders and descends with a soothing sound. Then comes the crossing of a small wooden bridge … just as zen … Then light hopping on the rocks staggered here and there for a wet-free crossing. Don’t forget to wear sneakers to avoid slipping. Two carbets await those who want to extend this feeling. Contemplation.
The waterfall is there, magnificently clear, in a superb setting. It drops over ten meters vigorously into a nice, appealing pool. The water is quite cold, unsurprisingly, but does not really feel like it… Discovering the place, its beauty, its special, almost warm atmosphere has something to do with it. With your feet in the water, it is a moment of pure happiness, so simple that it is almost inexplicable. A feeling everyone should experience.
Author: Jérôme Lehoux
LOCATION OF THE ” SAUT (DU) GENDARME ” WATERFALL
1 km after the junction of Route Nationale 3 (known as Route de la Trace), along Route Departmentale 1 towards Fonds-Saint-Denis, 1 km from Carrefour des Deux Choux. Waterfall accessible to the whole family. Picnic sites.
