Fodor's Expert Review La Savane des Esclaves

Down a dirt road, in the countryside outside the tourist zone, stands La Savane des Esclaves, a re-created "free" village of former enslaved people (circa 1800). This labor of love was created by Gilbert Larose, who has a fascination with his ancestors who were "Nèg'Marrons," enslaved people who fled the plantations to live free, off the land. The Antan Lontan Village, the name Larose gave his settlement, reveals much about this major element in Martinique's history and culture, with food tastings and artisan demonstrations. His gardens of fruits, vegetables, and medicinal herbs are cultivated in the traditional manner. Shows utilizing the various groups of Martinican folkloric dancers are held several times a year, both by day and by night. On Saturday from 9 to noon, there are often more elaborate tastings, demonstrations, and traditional dance lessons. Allow an hour and 15 minutes for the guided tour in French. There is some signage in English.