Loterie Farm is a private nature reserve on the slopes of Pic Paradis, the highest point on St. Martin, on the French side of the island between Marigot and Grand Case. It began as a plantation and is now one of the island's best-known day-out spots, combining forest trails, ziplines, a jungle pool with loungers, a treehouse-style restaurant and a children's adventure park in one shady setting. The hiking is the heart of it. The property describes its Pic Paradis trail as moderate to challenging, with dense forest, rocky ground and a summit view over the island, and it also has gentler forest trails such as the Valley, which follows brooks through the rainforest, and La Source, a humid forest around an artesian spring. Ziplines and a pool day make it a good choice for travelers who want to do something other than lie on sand, and a cooler, greener option for a hot afternoon.
The trails
The shorter route takes about an hour and the longer one about two and a half hours, according to the property, and both are self-guided for a per-person fee. The Pic Paradis route is the one to choose if you want the summit view. It climbs through shaded forest, with rocky and sometimes slippery sections, so wear shoes with real grip rather than flip-flops and carry water.
The gentler Valley and La Source trails suit families and anyone who wants shade, birdsong and the smell of damp forest without a hard climb. The artesian spring may run lighter in dry periods, so do not expect a waterfall every time you visit.
Beyond hiking
The Fly Zone ziplines run through the treetops and come in a standard and a more extreme version, with the extreme circuit aimed at confident adults. The Jungle Pool is a natural-style pool set among boulders and trees, with loungers and a party atmosphere on busy days, and the Jungle Room restaurant serves lunch, so many visitors combine a morning hike with a long lunch and a swim.
Children are catered for with an adventure park of rope bridges and climbing nets. The spa is a quieter option for a post-hike massage. Because some of these activities are priced and timed separately from entry, decide before you arrive which ones you want and check what is included.
Practical points
Opening days and hours change with the season. In the quieter months from autumn into early winter the farm tends to close on Monday and Tuesday and open Wednesday to Sunday, while busier months run longer, so confirm days and hours before you make the drive.
Early starts are best for hiking because the forest is cooler and the trails less crowded. Take insect repellent, a small towel for the pool and cash or a card for the restaurant. Rain makes the trails muddy and slippery and can close the ziplines, so check the forecast.
Getting there
The farm is on Rue du Pic Paradis near Colombier, a short drive from Marigot and about twenty minutes from Grand Case. A rental car or a taxi arranged for the return trip is the easiest way. It is a poor fit for a short cruise stop unless you go straight there and back, because the drive, the hike and a meal take most of a day.
What to expect
The experience
A forest property with self-guided hiking trails, ziplines, a jungle pool, a restaurant and a kids' adventure park.
Best time
Start early for cooler hiking, then stay for lunch and a swim; check seasonal opening days first.
How long
One to two and a half hours for a hike, or a half day to a full day with lunch and the pool.
Tips
Wear grippy shoes, bring water and repellent, and check hours and closing days before the drive.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Hikers and families who want shade, forest and adventure instead of a beach.
- Families
- The gentler forest trails, the kids' park and the pool suit most ages; check age limits for ziplines.
- Couples
- Hike to the summit view, then share a long lunch under the trees.
- Pair with
- Marigot Market and Fort Louis, or an evening in Grand Case.
- Time needed
- Half a day at minimum.
Good questions
How hard is the Pic Paradis hike?+
The property describes it as moderate to challenging, with dense forest and rocky ground. The shorter route takes about an hour and the longer one about two and a half hours. Wear proper shoes and bring water.
Can I visit without doing the ziplines?+
Yes. Self-guided hiking has its own per-person fee, and the pool, restaurant and kids' park are separate options. Check what each includes before you go.
Is Loterie Farm open every day?+
Opening days change by season. In quieter months it tends to close early in the week and open from Wednesday to Sunday, so confirm days and hours before you travel.
Is it good for children?+
Yes. There is a children's adventure park, gentler forest trails and a pool. Zipline age and weight limits apply, so check them beforehand.
Can I do it on a cruise day?+
It is possible only if you go straight there and back, since the drive, a hike and lunch take most of a day. Most cruise visitors will find the beach and town stops easier.
