ÎLETS DU ROBERT
A necklace of eleven volcanic islets adorns the bay of Le Robert, which is one of the most beautiful in Martinique. Rich of an exceptional fauna and flora, it counts more than 180 species of fish in its waters. The islets try to resist tourist invasion, which could disturb their fragile ecosystem. Here are some of the most famous.
Îlet Loup-Garou. This thin strip of sand consists of a heavenly cove and a chasm, once much feared by ships. Its only inhabitants are a few crabs. Its access is forbidden, as well as that of Boisseau islet.
Îlet Madame. The busiest of the bay. Its aquamarine water and its white sand beach attract more and more visitors, who can take shelter under specially built wooden shelters and come to spend the day there, picnic, enjoy the place.
Îlet Chancel. The largest in Martinique (2 km long and 850 m wide), the islet was owned by the Dominicans in the 18th century, who installed a sugar purgery there. We can still see the remains of the lime kiln where shells and hard corals were burned. Inhabited by a great variety of species, the islet is a real natural conservatory. Iguanas, manikous (birds) and bats are timidly spotted by tourists. It was by horse-drawn carriage that Mr. du Parquet, governor of Martinique, went, when he liked, to a piece of land off the coast of Le Robert that belonged to him. In order to land, and having only a small arm of the sea to cross, he would leave his carriage at the stable, which earned this place the name of Pointe de l'Ecurie, which it has retained ever since. In the middle of the 17th century, this islet Ranville, yesterday, or Chancel, today, was simply called the islet Monsieur or Monsieur… Du Parquet. When he died, the site was bequeathed to the Dominican monks. The years pass against all odds and the place, which the iguanas love, becomes that of the Dubuc de Ranville. Many legends are told about the islet… the place is full of secrets, disappearances at sea or sultanas. It was once again renamed and adopts the name of its new owner, Lagrange Chancel (mayor of Le Robert in 1851)…
Îlet à Eau. Surrounded by emerald colored water, this islet is perhaps a little less busy than the others. It will be particularly appreciated by nature lovers who may have the chance to see some square-tailed doves.
