L'Entre-Deux walks

L'Entre-Deux is a hiker’s paradise. This route follows the Sentier Rosélie and the Sentier du Zèbre. The latter is, in fact, one of the best-known trails in the region. You can complete a circular route by taking the Sentier Marron du Bras Long: it is very strenuous, quite demanding and technical, and is only recommended for very experienced walkers. This trail was little known before but is becoming increasingly popular. It also offers the chance to enjoy splendid panoramic views.

Here is an extraordinary water-based hike. This ascent of the Bras de la Plaine through the gorges is a hike that has to be earned. All along the way, it is a succession of caves, rock formations and very narrow passages where light struggles to penetrate. You will very often get your feet wet in this magnificent area, and that is what makes this hike so charming. However, GPS reception is very poor in the steep-sided sections.

A fairly short, easily accessible walk that follows a route well known to trail running enthusiasts: do not try to keep up with those training for the Diagonale des Fous. A quick and deep immersion in nature in the Ravine des Citrons; beautiful views, lots of vegetation and birds. Beautiful view of the ravine and the river before starting the climb.

Located on the heights of the Entre-Deux, this short mountain bike ride follows the Bras Long, passing by the eponymous picnic area which is very popular at weekends. It allows you to discover a little-known part of the Dimitile whilst riding between the Crête du Bras Long and the Zèbre.

There are several ways to reach the Bras de la Plaine. The route via the Sentier de la Petite Ravine is fairly well-known but rarely featured in guidebooks! This relatively short path leads right next to the beautiful Caverne de la Petite Ravine. If the opportunity arises, don’t hesitate to have a swim in the river or go and see the magnificent gorges downstream from the cave: do not attempt either of these if the water level is too high!

This hike takes you to Les Makes (at the La Fenêtre viewpoint) via a rarely visited spot: Le Tapage. This route offers magnificent views of the Cirque de Cilaos and the south of the island. On the way back, we take a detour through the beautiful Bras Patate valley.

Dimitile is known for its many hiking trails. The shortest and easiest route to the summit is via the Sentier de la Chapelle trail. This hike offers magnificent views of the south of the island and then the Cirque de Cilaos at the end of the climb. It allows you to encounter some endemic plants and see various types of vegetation. It also provides a historical perspective on slavery with the character of Dimitile and the current Camp Marron.

This is an original way to hike off the GR® trails. There are few trails winding through the Chaîne du Bois de Nèfle. This route takes you deep into the heart of this mountain range through a dense forest of colourful woods and offers some panoramic views of the south of the island and Les Makes. In addition, a picnic area has been set up at the end of the hike. Avoid this route in rainy weather!

This hike offers beautiful panoramic views of Cilaos! On the way back, we pass through the magnificent Bras Patate valley.

The Makes region offers a wealth of hiking opportunities. The Bras Patate valley trail is one of the easiest and best known. The trail winds its way through a magnificent valley, offering superb views of Cilaos. Bras Patate was the entrance to the Cirque de Cilaos before the Piton des Neiges collapsed. However, the water did not have time to carve out a deep canyon like the Bras de Cilaos, but be sure to bring your camera: you will see many endemic birds.

A short family walk there and back with a few variations, either along the Rivière d’Abord or alongside the sugarcane fields. On the riverside path, you can admire the pools carved into the rock.

The second stage of the walk runs closest to the railway line; it begins in the multicultural town of Saint-Louis and takes you past two branch lines of the railway. It then winds through the Étang-Salé forest, following the main railway line as closely as possible, before arriving at the peaceful seaside village of Étang-Salé les Bains. Of course, you’ll come across a few remnants of the railway line.

A lovely hike starting from Fenêtre des Makes which, in addition to magnificent views of Cilaos, allows you to discover completely different vegetation depending on the altitude.

An easy hike starting from a charming village offering magnificent views of the Cirque de Cilaos.

The Ravine du Gol is fed by three main branches: the Ravine de Bellevue, the Ravine Barrage and the Ravine Goyaves. This guide allows you to hike the entire length of the Ravine Barrage as far as the Source de l’Éperon. The stream is usually dry, but a few springs provide patches of water here and there. The going isn’t too difficult over the pebbles, and those who enjoy large boulders will be in their element!

A beautiful hike offering stunning views of Grand Bassin in a superb setting. It begins with a 750m descent, which you then have to climb back up! From Grand Bassin, a detour to the Voile de la Mariée waterfall and its pool is a must (swimming, picnic, etc.). N.B. The displayed elevation gain of 1,340 metres is overestimated; the actual elevation gain is around 800 metres.

This walk is part of the Sentier des Foulées de la Fraise trail. It is also a section of the Grand Raid. As you pass by the pastures, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy beautiful views towards the west and south. This section follows the Sentier des Foulées de la Fraise trail between Domaine Vidot and the first strawberry field. Fairly easy, although with a few steep steps, it is possible to continue much higher up towards Notre-Dame de la Paix.

Nez de Bœuf is an iconic peak on the Route du Volcan. There is a magnificent viewpoint at its foot. However, the view from the summit is much better. This hike takes you there from the peaceful village of Bourg Murat, crossing rural landscapes with magnificent views. However, it is strongly recommended that you start at 7 a.m. at the latest to get the best views. Especially the one at the summit, which will leave you with unforgettable memories.