The Beach and the Piton de Grande Anse

After parking in the car park or arriving by bus, head north-west from the beach.

(S/E) Head west along the beach to reach the viewpoint at Cap de l’Abri, where the waves are at their most spectacular in the distance when it’s windy. Then head south-east along the sandy beach or under the trees, walking on the grass.

(1) Continue down the clearly marked path to reach the foot of the rocky outcrop. Then head back up a path heading east for about 120 metres.

(2) Leave the path and take the track on the right, which heads broadly south and includes a few steps, to reach the summit of Piton de Grande Anse in a few minutes, where there are several viewpoints.
Beware of strong winds, which can unbalance anyone standing too close to the edge!
Go back a few steps and continue along the path on the right, heading east, to reach three more viewpoints overlooking the coast.

(3) The path descends, heading north, and ends near a rather unsightly car park along the Route de Grande Anse. Turn left. Follow the path heading north-west, pass the junction with the forest track and continue straight ahead.

The path leads to the Ravine des Français as you approach the beach. Turn right and head back up towards the north-west to return to the starting point (S/E).

Easy access by car or bus via Petite Île, Le Verger Hémery, the N2 road, then the Grande Anse D73 road, with a good car park at the end.
Do not park under the mango or coconut trees (falling fruit is a risk).
Avoid Sundays, as this is a popular day for picnics in Réunion, and Grande Anse gets very crowded.
The area is perfectly equipped for picnics, including barbecuing on fixed grills. Toilets on site.
Shade provided by the numerous trees.
The route may seem a bit haphazard along the beach, but we zigzagged our way around the permanent facilities to strike up conversations with the locals, who are always very welcoming and happy to explain their barbecue cooking!
There’s a swimming area protected from sharks to the south of the beach. Swimming is prohibited outside this area – please be careful, as shark attacks are a reality in Réunion.
A gentle walk best done in light footwear or even sandals. There are only a few steps to reach the top of the piton.
It’s not difficult, except in strong winds; do not let children go near the edge of the piton at the various viewing points.

To the north of the beach, near the car park, there’s a small eatery serving good, simple local dishes.
There are several fixed barbecue facilities.
Shade under the trees.
A sheltered pool for swimming.