YamineOTI

Cayenne is a small village not far from Kélonia. Many people pass through this village on their way to Saint-Gilles (or Saint-Leu) but don’t stop, except to look at the sea. A path runs through the village and leads to Bras Mouton in the hills above Saint-Leu, offering some panoramic views of this part of the island.

Étang Saint-Paul is designated as a nature reserve. There are several walking routes around it, including the Bassin Vital trail. Perched at an altitude of just over 150 metres, you can reach it via a short, fairly steep climb or by following a circular route. The views over Étang Saint-Paul are absolutely stunning! You can combine this walk with others in the area.

The west of Réunion is very popular for its white sandy beaches stretching for miles! Starting from Saint-Paul, you’ll come across plenty of sights. Some beaches are particularly beautiful when they’re not crowded. Of course, you can take your time visiting the coastal towns along the way or taking a dip in the water. There are plenty of places to stop for refreshments all along the route! But we strongly recommend bringing a hat!

This short hike offers magnificent views of the Mafate cirque on one side and the coast of La Possession on the other, with the Dos-d'Àne islet in the foreground. This is the easiest place to get a spectacular, unobstructed view of Mafate.

Réunion has a few remarkable museums, such as the Salt Museum and the Stella Matutina Museum. It is possible to visit both by taking a circular route via the Sentier Sucré Salé, which was used by the Stella factory owners to come and help the workers in the salt flats during the Second World War. You can also return via Piton des Roches Tendres, which offers a lovely view of the west of the island.

Le Grand Bénare is an iconic peak on the island. The approach via the Tamarin Lodge is much more strenuous than from Le Maïdo. You’ll need calves of steel to tackle the inevitable sharp rocks. The views are spectacular, and this is the case well before you reach the summit. The climb is steady and the elevation gain is quite significant. The route through the Caverne de la Glacière and the various shafts encountered during the ascent add an extra dimension to this hike.

The Cirque de Mafate is accessible from many different points. The flat track is easy to follow and suitable for everyone. Families can come on this walk and turn back at any time. You can even take a dip in the Rivière des Galets. The track runs straight ahead, winding its way between rock faces that grow ever higher as you go.

The route to Mafate via Maïdo is one of the most challenging ways to reach Mafate. This fairly strenuous round trip allows you to see the charming village of Roche Plate and go beyond it to Le Bronchard, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding area. The village of Roche Plate is typical of the villages in Mafate with its Creole houses. It is quite spread out and consists of two neighbourhoods. There are numerous lodges in the area.

La Roche Écrite rises to 2,276 metres and is accessible from several points. The route via Dos d'Ane is one of the longest, but also one of the most beautiful, with frequent views of the Cirque de Mafate in the first section. Some sections along the ridge are vertiginous and offer unique views. The detour via the Mare aux Cerfs and the Caverne Soldat adds an extra dimension to this long, challenging route.

From the Col des Bœufs, a forest track leads you to the edge of the Cirque de Salazie, where you’ll discover the majestic pass and its breathtaking views over the Cirque de Mafate. Your walk begins on a path carved into the mountainside, offering a dizzying view. You’ll then enter the tamarind forest. After crossing a clearing, you’ll descend towards the pebble-strewn river, discovering a hidden pool along the way. Finally, a short climb takes you to the village of Marla, where you can rest.

The hike from Col des Bœufs to La Nouvelle offers an accessible route for exploring the Cirque de Mafate. This excursion can be done in one day or over two days if you book a lodge. It allows you to discover the Plaine des Tamarins, the small hamlets of La Nouvelle (considered the capital of Mafate) and Marla.