The Chemin Pavé Lougnon

Access:
From Saint-Pierre: follow the Route des Tamarins to Saint-Paul and take the first exit. Pass under the main road and take the first left onto the Chaussée Royale. Then take the first left towards Grande Fontaine, pass under the bridge and take the first left towards Tour des Roches. Follow the road to the first footbridge on the right.

From Saint-Denis: head towards Saint-Paul via the N1. After passing the Étang de Saint-Paul, take the next exit. At the traffic lights, keep left onto the Chaussée Royale and follow this road before taking the second left. Go under the bridge, then take the first left towards the Tour des Roches. Follow the road to the first footbridge on the right, where it is best to park.

(S/E) At the footbridge, continue along the road. The walk begins beneath the orchards, which are home to trees – mainly mango trees – of enormous size. They are among the oldest on the island and are nearly 300 years old. These trees were planted by the island’s first inhabitants.

(1) At the first junction, turn right onto Chemin des Cèdres in the Bouillon neighbourhood. Turn left at the T-junction and follow the road to its end.

(2) The cobbled path begins at the end of the road. It has been beautifully restored and is one of the finest cobbled paths on the island. The climb is easy along this winding path but may, however, be more challenging for young children.

The views become increasingly sweeping as you climb, all overlooking the Étang de Saint-Paul area and, at times, the Ravine Divon. When you reach the oratory, you’ll find that half the route still lies ahead.

The second half consists of basic shaded areas that have been created following a recent exhibition. These are the only shaded spots on the walk: apart from these, the route is completely exposed to the sun! The path winds through dry vegetation where the only trees growing are tamarinds.

(3) The paved path ends after about 30 to 45 minutes’ climb. There is an information board here, as well as a water point. Return to your car via the same route, with the added bonus of having the views facing you this time (S/E).

This walk is best done in winter as it is completely exposed: bring water and sun cream
Water available at (3).
You can have a picnic and go rock climbing by following the path that starts at the footbridge and heads up the Ravine Divon (S/E).

Places to see:
- The Chemin Pavé Lougnon (2).
-The Tour des Roches and its watermill.
-The Étang de Saint-Paul.
- The old wash houses and the powder magazine at Grande Fontaine.
-The orchards with their huge trees (S/E).

Things to do:
-Visit the town of Saint-Paul
-You can combine this walk with those of the Bassin Pigeon, the Bassin Long and the Bassin Vital.