Route de la Trace

The Balata Botanical Gardens near Fort-de-France feature a variety of plants, including ponds with water lilies and lotus blossoms.

Balata Church is a small size replica of Sacré-Coeur Basilica in France. Located on a hill outside of Fort-de-France, the area offers good views over the city and surrounding country.

Morne Rouge is a small town near Mont Pelée. It was once known for its high concentration of wealthy homes. On August 30, 1902 a large pyroclastic flow buried Morne Rouge killing almost 1,500 people. The town is now a pilgrimage site, with followers congregating at the church here each Aug. 30 to pay homage to the Virgin and commemorate the 1902 eruption.

The volcanic soil in this area is a reddish color, contributing to the town's name.