Haiti: Alliance Française Cap-Haïtien

Haïti : Île à Rat

Ile-à-Rat, a gem off the northern coast of Haiti, where adventure and tranquility meet in perfect balance. This small island offers an ideal getaway for lovers of scuba diving, with its turquoise waters hiding treasures from the past. Maritime history enthusiasts will be delighted to discover the submerged remains of old cannons and cannonballs resting silently at the bottom of the sea. Each dive thus becomes a fascinating exploration through time, offering an insight into the mysteries and stories that have forged this region. On the beach, the charm of the island does not stop. Local fishermen will welcome you with their warm hospitality, offering fresh grilled fish. Imagine tasting this local delicacy, tasty and fragrant, served on a leaf from the trees that shade the island. It is an authentic culinary experience, evoking the unique taste of the sea and the refined simplicity of island life. Ile-à-Rat is much more than a destination for lovers of diving and local cuisine. It is a romantic refuge, a place where one can escape from the daily hustle and bustle and lose oneself in the natural beauty that surrounds it. Spectacular sunsets, calming sea breezes and lapping waves create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable romantic getaway. Whether you are drawn to underwater mysteries, authentic local cuisine or simply the serenity of nature, Ile-à-Rat offers a unique experience that captures the hearts of those lucky enough to discover it. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing visitors to reconnect with the simple, timeless beauty of island life.

Haiti: Discovering Fort Picolet

Haiti, with its rich historical heritage, is home to several gems that bear witness to the country’s fascinating past. Among these is Fort Picolet, a vital part of the French colonial defensive system, which stands majestically on the coast. This site, steeped in history, offers visitors a captivating dive into the island’s tumultuous past. Fort Picolet was designed as a strategic fortress, composed of two superimposed batteries, a parapet walk and a wall that runs along the coast. Construction work began in 1736 under the direction of M. de Larnage and was completed in 1741 by the engineer M. du Coudreau. This imposing structure bears witness to the architectural know-how of the French colonial era. The fort played a crucial role during the French expedition of February 1802, under the command of General Henry Christophe. Controlling the passage of large tonnage boats between Pointe Picolet and the Grand-Mouton reefs, Fort Picolet temporarily blocked access to the port of Cape Town for the squadron led by Captain General Leclerc. This historic episode marked the beginning of fierce resistance, with General Christophe proclaiming from the ramparts of the fort his famous words: "If you have the force with which you threaten me, I will lend you all the resistance that characterizes a general". Unfortunately, part of the surrounding wall was destroyed during the explosion of the powder magazine. Despite this incident, Fort Picolet has survived over the centuries, testifying to the resilience of its architecture and its historical importance. Today, Fort Picolet stands out as an essential tourist destination in Haiti. Visitors can stroll through its historic corridors, soak up its history-filled atmosphere and admire the panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Preservation efforts have been made to restore parts of the fort, providing visitors with an immersive experience into the nation’s past.

Haïti : Grotte Marie-Jeanne

Grotte Marie-Jeanne is one of many caves located in Haiti. It is located in the Sud-Est department, near the town of Belle-Anse, on the southern peninsula of the island of Hispaniola, where Haïti is located. This cave is famous for its stalactite and stalagmite formations, as well as its natural beauty. The Marie-Jeanne cave is also culturally and historically important. It played a significant role in the Haitian Revolution which resulted in Haiti’s independence in 1804. It is said that the cave served as a refuge for rebel slaves led by General Jean-Jacques Dessalines. This cave has become a symbol of the struggle for freedom and is often visited by tourists and Haitians to commemorate this history.

Haïti : Île-à-Vache

Île-à-Vache is a small island located off the southwest coast of Haïti in the Caribbean Sea. It is part of the South Department of Haïti and is known for its picturesque landscapes, white sand beaches and relatively unspoilt natural beauty. The island has historically been a popular destination for tourists seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of Haiti’s more populated and developed regions. Île-à-Vache is characterized by its peaceful and unspoiled environment, making it a popular location for ecotourism and for those seeking a more peaceful vacation experience. The island is renowned for its pristine beaches, clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it an ideal place for snorkeling and scuba diving. The island has undergone some development efforts to attract tourists, including the construction of small hotels and resorts, but it has retained much of its traditional, laid-back atmosphere.

Haïti : Kenscoff et Furcy

Kenscoff and Furcy are two communes located in Haiti, in the West department, on the outskirts of the capital Port-au-Prince. Here is some information about these two places: 1. Kenscoff: - Kenscoff is a mountain commune located about 10 kilometers south of Port-au-Prince. It is known for its cool climate due to its altitude, making it a popular destination to escape the heat of the capital. - The Kenscoff region is also renowned for its agricultural operations, particularly the cultivation of vegetables and flowers. The fertile soil and favorable climate make it an important place of agricultural production for the region. - Kenscoff also offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Caribbean Sea. 2. Furcy: - Furcy is a small town located near Kenscoff, in the mountains of western Haiti. It is a place even higher in altitude than Kenscoff, thus offering cooler temperatures. - The Furcy region is also known for its natural beauty and mountainous landscapes. It is a favorite place for hiking and ecotourism, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding nature. - Many visitors to Port-au-Prince travel to Furcy to escape the heat of the city and enjoy the fresh air and scenic views. These two mountain communes are popular destinations for those looking to escape the heat and hustle and bustle of the Haitian capital, while enjoying the area’s natural beauty and learning about local agriculture.

Haïti : Saut-Mathurine

Saut-Mathurine is a beautiful waterfall located in Haiti. It is located near the town of Les Cayes, in the Southern Peninsula. This waterfall is one of the most famous natural attractions in the country. Saut-Mathurine is known for its spectacular waterfall which falls from a considerable height into a natural swimming pool surrounded by lush vegetation. The place is a popular relaxation spot for locals and visitors looking for some freshness and natural beauty. Visitors can swim in the pool, picnic nearby, or simply enjoy the view of the waterfall. The waterfall is located in a mountainous region, providing a stark contrast to the sandy beaches that Haïti is also famous for. It is a fine example of the natural wonders that this Caribbean country has to offer nature lovers and adventurers.