What is Grand Case Like?

At the northern tip of the French-Caribbean island of St. Martin lies a beautiful little town, often referred to as an open-air museum. Grand Case, or “La Petite France”, is a vibrant and colorful cultural experience, melding the culinary, cultural and architectural influences from both France and the Netherlands.

Grand Case is best known for its bustling street filled with beachfront restaurants, unique shops, cozy cafés and colorful galleries. At the center of town sits the Clock Tower, a nostalgic reminder of the days gone by. Along the beach itself, you’ll find plenty of places to lounge in the sand, swim in the crystal clear waters and even enjoy a few watersports.

History

Grand Case is nearly 300 years old and was founded as a fishing village in 1732 when 30 families settled on the beautiful northern coast of St. Martin. Over the centuries that followed, the village grew and prospered, trading with ships from all over Europe. With its convenient location near the Dutch and French sides of Sint Maarten/ Saint-Martin, Grand Case became one of the most important points of entry for goods into the Caribbean Basin.

Culinary Scene

One of the main attractions for visitors to Grand Case is the incredible local cuisine. With influences from both France and the Dutch on the island of St. Martin, dishes like Creole-style Roti and Sushi have become staples in the small town. There are over 70 restaurants in Grand Case boasting some of the freshest seafood around, from mahi-mahi to conch. Visitors looking to sample a sweet treat have plenty of options! The island’s famous Rum cakes were first created by a baker in Grand Case more than 40 years ago and are a staple dessert in many restaurants and stores.

Things To Do

When you’re not sampling the incredible flavors on offer in Grand Case, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on your own or with your family. The stunning beachfront is among the most beautiful in the Caribbean and many visitors like to rent chairs and umbrellas with food and drinks available from a few vendors onsite. The shallow waters are ideal for swimming or kayaking and watersports like jet skiing are readily available for those looking to explore further out by boat.

One of Grand Case’s best-kept secrets is its commitment to the preservation of its heritage and culture. On the second Tuesday of each month, locals open shops for a lively cultural night offering live music, dance performances and crafts for purchase. There are also plenty of galleries showcasing works from both locals and international artists in a range of mediums.

Conclusion

Grand Case is a quaint little island town with a rich history, vibrant culture, and remarkable cuisine. The stunning beachfront comes alive with great food, music, and art at monthly cultural events while days can be spent swimming, relaxing by the sea or exploring quaint galleries and shops. Grand Case offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a taste of the Caribbean with a French-Dutch twist. Check out more information about Grand Case here.

An Insider’s Guide to Grand Case: Unveiling the Hidden Charms of Saint Martin

If you’re looking for serene beaches, awe-inspiring sunsets, and epicurean delights, Grand Case, a small fishing village located on the north-west coast of French Saint Martin, is the perfect place for you. This vibrant town is known for its soft sands, multi-hued waters, and its lively community of artists, artisans, and entrepreneurs. Here’s an insider’s guide to some of the best-kept secrets of this beautiful destination.

Local Attractions: Discover the Hidden Gems

While Grand Case boasts of several well-known beaches, such as Happy Bay and Friar’s Bay, the town’s real treasures lie in its lesser-known coves, cliffs, and creeks. One such gem is the Bay of Anse Marcel, located near the northeastern tip of the island, where you can go kayaking or snorkeling. Another must-visit is Loterie Farm, a nature reserve that offers hiking trails, ziplining, and even a treetop obstacle course. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, hike up to the secluded Pic Paradis mountain, the highest point on the island, for a breathtaking panoramic view of St. Martin.

Dining Spots: Savor the Local Cuisine

Grand Case is known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, thanks to its long-standing French and Creole influences. Seafood is the star of the show here, and you can sample it in various forms: grilled, sautéed, curried, stewed, or boiled. For a truly authentic experience, head to the Marigot fish market, where you can meet the fishermen and purchase the catch of the day. You can also try some of the local delicacies such as the Conch fritters, Boudin noir (blood sausage), and Accra (vegetable fritters). Some of the best restaurants in Grand Case to indulge in exquisite Caribbean cuisine are Le Pressoir, L’Auberge Gourmande, and Le Soleil.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the Island Vibe

One of the best ways to truly experience the island’s vibrant culture is to visit during one of the many cultural festivals. If you’re around in February, do not miss the Carnival season, where parades, pageants, and parties are the norm. The Heineken Regatta in March, the Saint Martin Billfish Tournament in June, and the Taste of Saint Martin Food Festival in November are other prominent events that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the island. You can also explore Grand Case’s art scene by visiting the various galleries and art studios scattered throughout the town.

Local History: Unpack the Legends and Tales

St. Martin has a long and colorful past, filled with stories of explorers, pirates, and slaves. A unique way to unravel the fascinating tales of the island is by taking a tour with local historians such as Franklyn Richards or Manuella Armony. They will take you through the ruins of old sugar plantations, to ancient fortresses and churches, and even to hidden cemeteries. One iconic landmark of Grand Case with historical significance is the Catholic Church of Saint Martin of Tours, which was built in 1869 and restored in 1997.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions: Make Memories to Last a Lifetime

If you want to go off the beaten path, rent a bicycle or a scooter and explore the island’s rural areas and hidden hamlets. Take a day trip to the nearby island of Anguilla, which has some of the most pristine and secluded beaches in the Caribbean. You can also take a catamaran or a speedboat to the uninhabited island of Tintamarre, where you can swim with the sea turtles and the dolphins. For a truly unique experience, sign up for a moonlit kayaking tour along the coastline of Saint Martin.

Grand Case is a destination that offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and indulgence. It has something to offer for everyone – the beach lover, the foodie, the artist, the adventurer, or the history buff. By tapping into its hidden gems, you can create unforgettable memories that you can cherish for a lifetime.