La Possession – Grande Chaloupe

(S) Start the hike at the site of the old La Possession station, the end point of the previous stage. From here, head left towards Rue Waldeck Rochet and follow it north-east along the dual carriageway. Pass to the right of La Possession Church.

(1) At the end of the street, turn left towards La Montagne and cross the Ravine des Lataniers via a bridge whose abutments date from the old railway line. They are made of masonry. Stay on this road until the next roundabout. Before reaching the roundabout, cross the Ravine Mare Coton via a bridge situated directly over the route of the old railway line. The bridge has been rebuilt to accommodate the road.

(2) At the roundabout, continue straight on towards Chemin des Anglais and cross the Ravine Lafleur.
When you reach the start of Chemin des Anglais (very well signposted), turn left to see the railway bridge over Ravine Lafleur, the old railway tunnel and the tracks that are still in place on this section.

(3) After a brief visit to these remains, return to the roundabout junction. Begin a fairly steep climb up Chemin des Anglais. This first section is winding and offers some shade, but only briefly. After climbing the embankment (100 m elevation gain), you’ll reach a straighter section that’s completely open.

(4) Take the Chemin Crémont, known as the Chemin des Anglais, and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding area here. The path is paved throughout and undulating. It crosses three ravines, descending and then climbing a fairly steep slope, though this is short-lived. After crossing the third ravine, you’ll reach a plateau and descend very steeply towards La Grande Chaloupe via hairpin bends. During this descent, enjoy the panoramic views of the area.

(5) Begin a short climb before starting another descent via tight hairpin bends. Reach the end of the paved path.

(6) Turn left and pass by the leper colonies; near the four-lane road, you’ll find the old railway line at the next junction, along with its tracks.

(7) Turn left to see the tunnel exit. Alternatively, turn right towards the railway station. Cross the railway bridge over the Ravine de la Grande Chaloupe, then pass near a lever that was used for the railway points and is still in working order.
You will then arrive at the old Grande Chaloupe railway station (E); do not hesitate to visit it when it is open.

Bring water, a hat and sun cream: it’s getting hot.
You can stay at the Roche Tamarin Lodge in La Possession and return to (E) for the next stage by taking the yellow bus.

(Between 6 and 7) you can visit the leper colonies.
Places to see:
(Shortly before 1) La Possession Church.
(1) The remains of the Ravine des Lataniers railway bridge.
(3) The railway bridge at Ravine Lafleur.
(7) The railway bridge at Ravine de la Grande Chaloupe.
(3 and 7) The railway tunnel connecting these two points.
(E) The former Grande Chaloupe railway station.