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Access: when you arrive in Hell-Bourg town centre, take the first left onto Rue André Fontaine and pass the town hall. Then keep left at each junction until you reach the next picnic area.
(S/E) Start the hike at the Bellevue picnic area, where tables, kiosks and a water source are available. Then follow a track for about 100 metres.
(1) At the end of the track, turn left onto the path that begins to climb slightly. Rocks are everywhere along the route! The start is near the casuarina trees and chayote fields. The first switchbacks quickly arrive in the tibouchinas.
There are numerous views of the cirque during the first half of the climb, and you will have the opportunity to admire Piton d'Anchaing, Piton Maillot, Hell Bourg, Mare à Poule d'Eau and its eponymous expanse, Ilet à Vidot, Plaine d'Affouche, Bélier, Mare à Martin, Mare à Vielle Place, Mare à Citron, Cimendef, Roche Écrite, Piton Bé Massoune, Bécabot, Salazie and the Sisahaye Plateau at your feet. There are also numerous springs along this part of the route. The narrowest sections are protected by cables.
(2) The last spring is the largest and is located near an oratory. It is just before a long traverse and at the end of a series of switchbacks. Next, there is a shorter section of switchbacks: you are now halfway up the climb, both in distance and elevation. The next section is flatter until the next cross.
(3) This marks the start of a series of hairpin bends and the arrival at the forest of coloured woods. The slope is steeper and the route is more wooded. It takes about thirty minutes to climb these hairpin bends and arrive near the remains of a cable car, which marks the arrival at the top of the rampart.
(4) Then cross the Ravine de la Vierge and climb up the opposite slope via a few hairpin bends. You will arrive at the Bélouve lodge viewpoint after at least an hour and a half of climbing.
(5) Enjoy the view and follow the same route in reverse to return to the car park (S/E).
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