Around
Saint-Martin covers thirty-seven square kilometres, shared between France and the Netherlands with no marked border. Nothing is far: every distance below is measured from the villa's gate.
The villa's beach
A mile and a half of pale sand edged with coconut palms. No shops, no hired parasols: it is the longest beach on the island, and most days you walk it alone. The path starts at the bottom of the garden.
The rock arches
A short cove closed off by a rocky point, with very clear water and rollers that children love. This is the side from which the island watches the sun go down.
The capital, French side
Low streets of painted façades under wooden balconies. The morning market is held beneath coloured tin roofs; higher up, Fort Louis gives you the view across to Anguilla. The stalls spill onto the quay on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
The restaurant street
You dine here on terraces open to the sunset, almost with your feet in the water. One street, some thirty tables, and the lolos along the harbour — charcoal grills served on wooden benches. Book ahead in the evening, especially from January to April.
The nature reserve
Water so clear you can wade a long way without losing your footing. The islet covers fifty acres inside the nature reserve, ten minutes by ferry from the Cul-de-Sac landing. A discovery trail, two beach restaurants, and ferries every half hour.
The high point
A wooden walkway, and the forest closing overhead. The summit stands at 424 metres, the one place from which you see both coasts at once; below it, the Loterie Farm woods and their courses through the trees. Bring proper shoes and water.
Getting here
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is on the Dutch side, nine kilometres away. Allow fifteen minutes by road, a little more when the long-haul flights land. A private transfer can be arranged for €60 each way.
A hire car is strongly advised: there is no regular public transport in Terres Basses.