The French Lowlands or Terres Basses are a neighborhood of million-dollar estates, build on the rolling hills of St. Martin's westernmost region. There is only one resort in this exclusive area, but it happens to be the island's 5-star flagship La Samanna.
The Lowlands are the location of some spectacular beaches: Baie Longue and Baie aux Prumes (Long Beach and Plum Beach) are secluded, have public parking, but no services. Neither beach is ever crowded. Baie Rouge is set amongst some dramatic red cliffs. A few hundred feet away from the entrance, the beach becomes more clothing optional.
The elegant homes in Terres Basses are sitting on generous lots, most of them with gorgeous views of either the Lagoon or the ocean, or both. Many villas can be rented on a weekly basis as the ultimate vacation-get-a-way.
