Off to Réunion – tropical magic in the Indian Ocean

Contents:

• Réunion’s towns and their attractions: discoveries amongst volcanoes and coastlines
• Secrets and wonders of Réunion
• Best time to visit: When to experience Réunion at its best
• Getting around Réunion: Everything you need to know about transport
• Accommodation in Réunion: A wide variety to suit every taste and budget
• Activities in Réunion: An adventure paradise
• A Culinary Journey: The Diverse Flavours of Réunion
• Conclusion: Réunion – An incomparable experience that touches you deeply

Réunion’s towns and their attractions: discoveries amongst volcanoes and coastlines

The island of Réunion, a jewel of the Indian Ocean, enchants its visitors with a fascinating blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity. The vibrant capital, Saint-Denis, beckons with its rich colonial architecture and a touch of French elegance. In the southern regions, such as Saint-Pierre, the island’s vibrant culture comes to life with colourful markets and exotic festivals. A particular highlight is the mountain village of Cilaos, nestled within one of the spectacular natural amphitheatres known as the ‘cirques’. Surrounded by steep mountain faces, Cilaos offers breathtaking panoramic views, famous thermal springs and excellent opportunities for hiking. The village is also known for its wine and embroidery, which represent the island’s cultural heritage.

Réunion delights with a variety of attractions that fascinate nature lovers and adventurers alike. From volcanoes to rainforests to beaches – there’s something for everyone here:

• The Piton de la Fournaise, an active volcano in the south-east, is one of the most active in the world. At 2,632 metres, it offers a surreal landscape of lava fields and craters. Hiking trails such as the ‘Pas de Bellecombe’ lead to spectacular viewpoints, and guided tours allow you to experience the power of nature up close. A highlight for adventurers!
• Hidden in the heart of the island lies the Cirque de Mafate, a secluded valley accessible only on foot or by helicopter. Surrounded by towering, green mountains, this place is a true hiker’s paradise. Picturesque villages such as La Nouvelle enrich this UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site with their unique charm, creating an atmosphere of undisturbed tranquillity and breathtaking views. Another highlight is the Le Maïdo viewpoint, situated at an altitude of 2,200 metres and offering a spectacular view of the Cirque de Mafate. It’s particularly magical at sunrise, when the mist gently wafts through the valleys. Easily accessible by car, this spot is an absolute must for any photography enthusiast.
• In Saint-Denis, the Jardin de l’État offers an oasis of tranquillity. This historic botanical garden is home to exotic plants such as palm trees and vanilla. Walking paths lead past ponds and a small museum – ideal for combining nature and culture.
• Along Réunion’s coastline, numerous picturesque beaches invite you to relax and enjoy water sports. Alongside the popular Plage de l’Hermitage, other beaches such as Boucan Canot and Grande Anse also attract visitors. Boucan Canot is known for its safe swimming areas, protected by anti-shark nets, whilst Grande Anse, with its natural pool surrounded by lava rocks, is particularly family-friendly. These beaches offer fine sand and crystal-clear water, ideal for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing. 

Now that we’ve discovered Réunion’s first spectacular sights, let’s turn our attention to some of the other impressive highlights the island has to offer: 

• The Piton des Neiges, at 3,070 metres Réunion’s highest mountain, attracts hikers with a challenging trek and breathtaking views across the island. The sunrise above the clouds is well worth the effort.
• In the south, the Cascade de Grand Galet near Langevin is a sight to behold. The waterfall plunges into a clear pool, surrounded by lush nature – perfect for swimming or relaxing.
• Nestled amidst lush greenery, the Cirque de Salazie offers a breathtaking backdrop with numerous waterfalls, among which the Voile de la Mariée stands out in particular. This cirque is accessible via winding roads and captivates visitors with its picturesque villages such as Hell-Bourg, which is renowned for its well-preserved Creole-style architecture. Walking trails criss-cross the landscape, offering spectacular views – a paradise for nature and culture lovers.
• Discover Réunion’s mysterious underworld on a tour of the lava tunnels. These natural passages, formed by the cooling lava from past eruptions of the Piton de la Fournaise, offer an unrivalled adventure beneath the earth’s surface. Guided tours of these geological wonders reveal fascinating insights into the island’s volcanic activity and its impressive power.
• The sea turtle observatory, Kelonia, in Saint-Leu is not only a research centre but also a nature reserve dedicated to the conservation and study of sea turtles. Here, visitors can observe the various stages of the turtles’ development, learn about the efforts to protect these fascinating marine creatures and marvel at the elegant swimming movements of the turtles right by the tanks.

The Secrets and Wonders of Réunion

Réunion is home to many secrets and hidden places just waiting to be discovered. The Hell Bourg cemetery is particularly fascinating, not only as a final resting place but also as the setting for a spooky legend. Here lies ‘Zitte’, a notorious criminal from the island, whose head was sent to Saint-Denis following his execution, whilst his body remained in Hell Bourg. It is said that his spirit cannot find peace and wanders between the towns. A visit to this cemetery offers a deep insight into the local myths and the history of Réunion.

Another extraordinary destination is Tremblet Beach, the world’s youngest beach, formed in 2007 when lava from the Piton de la Fournaise flowed into the sea. This extraordinary place offers a rare opportunity to experience first-hand the dynamic forces of nature and the formation of new land.

Not to be missed is the ‘miracle church’, Notre Dame des Laves, in Piton Sainte-Rose. During a volcanic eruption in 1977, it remained unscathed despite the destruction of the surrounding buildings. The lava penetrated slightly into the front part of the church but then split and flowed around the building. The locals saw this as divine intervention. These and other stories lend Réunion’s natural beauty an added cultural and spiritual depth.

Tip: If you’d like to discover the diversity of France’s overseas territories, do take a look at our blog posts on Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guiana, French Polynesia and New Caledonia – these Caribbean sister regions delight visitors with their turquoise bays, volcanic landscapes and vibrant culture.

Best time to visit: When to experience Réunion at its best

The best time to visit Réunion is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, there is less rainfall and temperatures are pleasant, making the island ideal for outdoor activities and exploring. This period is particularly appealing to nature lovers, as the whale-watching season also reaches its peak from June to October. During these months, visitors can witness the breathtaking sight of whales passing by just off the coast – an unforgettable natural spectacle.

However, travellers should avoid visiting Réunion in December and January. This is when the cyclone season is at its peak, which not only affects the weather but can also lead to disruptions to transport and activities. Anyone wishing to experience Réunion’s natural beauty in all its splendour is best advised to plan their visit outside these riskier months.

Getting around Réunion: Everything you need to know about transport:

Réunion combines modern transport infrastructure with the natural challenges of a mountainous volcanic island. For maximum flexibility and independence, hiring a car is the best option. The main roads, such as the Route Nationale or the Route des Tamarins, are extremely well developed and offer a comfortable journey. Inland, however, the roads wind their way through the breathtaking landscapes, becoming narrower and more winding. To hire a car, you must be at least 22 years old and have held a valid driving licence for at least one year. An EU driving licence is accepted without any problems.

For those who prefer not to drive themselves, the ‘Car Jaune’ bus network offers an excellent alternative. With 16 routes, it covers the entire island and connects the north, west, south and east. Taxis are a convenient, albeit more expensive, option for shorter distances.

Traffic conditions can change quickly due to congestion during rush hour or natural events such as rain and volcanic eruptions, which can block the roads. Petrol stations are widespread but close at night. With the right planning, you can explore Réunion comfortably and efficiently, leaving you more time to enjoy the spectacular landscapes and unique culture.

Accommodation on Réunion: a wide variety to suit every taste and budget

Accommodation on Réunion reflects the island’s diversity and offers something to suit every taste and budget – from luxury resorts to rustic mountain lodges. Whether you want to explore the coast, the mountains or the towns, you’ll find the perfect base for your adventure here.

On the west coast, particularly in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains or Grand Anse, hotels beckon with their comfort and proximity to the sea. Luxury resorts such as the ‘Palm Hotel & Spa’ offer first-class service, swimming pools and sea views, ideal for unwinding after a day on the beach. For budget travellers, there are more affordable options in coastal towns such as Saint-Leu or Saint-Pierre, such as the “Iloha Seaview Hotel” in Saint-Leu, which offers affordable rooms with great views and a friendly, family-like atmosphere. Prices range from around CHF 50 per night in basic accommodation to over CHF 200 in luxury resorts.

In the mountains, the traditional gîtes are a highlight for hikers. Particularly in valley basins such as Cilaos or Mafate, these mountain huts offer simple, cosy rooms or dormitories. Prices range from 20 to 50 euros per night, with meals often included. As many gîtes are only accessible on foot, you should book in advance. Holiday flats are particularly popular along the coast. In Saint-Pierre or La Saline-les-Bains, there are flats and small houses with kitchens and often sea views, perfect for families or longer stays. 

For nature lovers, camping is a great option. On beaches such as L’Hermitage or in the mountains at organised sites like Cilaos, it usually costs CHF 10–20 per night. Wild camping is restricted and often requires a permit. If you want to combine camping with comfort, you should try glamping. Places such as ‘Kaz Insolite’ in Saint-Joseph offer unique accommodation, such as tree houses or transparent tent domes, which combine luxury with a close-to-nature experience. With prices starting at around CHF 100 per night, it’s a special way to enjoy Réunion’s landscape up close.

Availability can be limited during the high season (May to November), so book early! 

Activities on Réunion: An adventure paradise

Réunion is a dream destination for lovers of active holidays and offers a wide range of activities that make the most of the island’s unique landscape. From hiking and water sports to cultural explorations, there are countless ways to spend active days here.

• Hiking and trekking: Réunion is world-famous for its spectacular hiking trails. The routes lead through the three impressive cirques – Salazie, Cilaos and Mafate – which captivate visitors with their remote locations and breathtaking natural beauty. The ascent to Piton des Neiges, the highest point in the Indian Ocean, offers experienced hikers a challenging trek with unforgettable panoramic views. For the adventurous, a hike to the active volcano Piton de la Fournaise is an absolute must.
• Paragliding: For an adrenaline rush and a completely different perspective on the island, paragliding is the perfect choice. Take off from one of the many mountains to glide over Réunion’s lush greenery and rugged coastline.
• Diving and snorkelling: The waters around Réunion are a paradise for divers and snorkellers. The clear, warm water is home to a rich underwater world, including colourful coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life. The protected marine parks, in particular, are popular diving spots.
• Canyoning: Réunion’s unique volcanic landscape offers perfect conditions for canyoning. Explore the numerous gorges and waterfalls, jump into crystal-clear pools and slide down natural water slides – an unforgettable experience for water and nature enthusiasts.
• Cultural experiences: As well as its natural beauty, Réunion also has a lot to offer culturally. Visit the lively markets of Saint-Pierre or Saint-Denis to discover local produce and handicrafts. Cultural events and festivals offer insights into the island’s Creole traditions and way of life.

A culinary journey of discovery: The diverse flavours of Réunion

Réunion’s cuisine is a culinary feast blending Creole, French, Indian and African influences, enriched with local ingredients and exotic spices. The island’s specialities reflect its diverse landscape and can be enjoyed in restaurants with an authentic atmosphere. Here are a few highlights:

Rougail Saucisse, a spicy stew made with sausages, tomatoes, onions and hot spices, served with rice, is a must-try. Try this hearty dish at ‘La Marmite’ in Saint-Denis, renowned for its traditional cuisine. For another authentic experience, visit ‘Chez Herbert’, where local dishes are served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Cari, an aromatic curry made with chicken, fish or prawns in a sauce of turmeric, ginger and garlic, is also a must-try. For snacks between meals, samosas – crispy pastries – and bonbons piment – spicy bean balls – are ideal. You’ll find these at all the markets and from many street vendors. For a relaxed evening with cocktails, we recommend ‘Planch’ Alizé’, where you can enjoy local drinks in a laid-back atmosphere.

Not to be forgotten is rhum arrangé, a cultural symbol of Réunion. Experience this refined rum at the ‘Saga du Rhum’ in Saint-Pierre, a museum entirely dedicated to the history and production of local rum. Here, tradition meets in-depth insights into the island’s rum culture.

Conclusion: Réunion – An incomparable experience that touches you deeply

Réunion is more than just an island; it is an experience that gets right under your skin. With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich culture and countless activities, the island offers something special to suit every taste.

Our detailed journey through Réunion has given you a taste of what this fascinating island has to offer. But the real discovery only begins with your own personal experience. Plan your trip, pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime on one of the world’s most diverse islands.

P.S. Do take a look at our Travel Deals page to discover some great hotel offers. You might just find the perfect deal for your next stay in Réunion.