Bassin Zéclair is a deep, dramatic pool hidden in the upper reaches of Sainte-Marie, surrounded by vertical cliffs and fed by a strong-flowing waterfall. Reaching it isn’t easy. The access is unofficial, with no signage and no trail maintenance, which keeps the crowds away but also means you need to be steady on your feet. Expect river crossings, wet rocks, and uneven footing.

Despite the effort, it’s one of the most impressive freshwater basins on the island. The light filters through the trees, turning the surface a dark, glassy green. There’s often no one else around. You’ll hear water echoing off the rock walls and the occasional thump of fruit falling from the canopy. There are no safety barriers, and no phone signal. This is raw nature, not a swimming spot with amenities.

Bring solid shoes and go only if you're comfortable in remote settings. It’s beautiful, but not a place for casual sightseeing.

👉 Don’t go during or just after rai. Flash floods are a real risk here, and there’s no exit route if the water rises.