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Leave your car in the Pas des Sables car park, just before the descent to the Plaine des Sables.
(S/E) Take the path that branches off to the right of the road and climbs up to the volcano, marked by a sign for “Oratoire Sainte Thérèse”.
Continue along this path, which is clearly marked in yellow, following the cliff edge bordering the Plaine des Sables.
The path is easy and offers superb views of the Piton de la Fournaise and the Plaine des Sables.
(1) At Piton des Basaltes, you’ll find all the webcam and volcanological data-recording equipment, which transmits data directly to the Maison du Volcan. The equipment is powered by solar panels. It’s worth taking a look around.
Continue along the same yellow-marked trail, through flowering bushes.
(2) You’ll come to a signpost indicating the Oratoire Sainte Thérèse at the junction with theGR® R2. This path, crossing the Plaine des Sables, leads to the Lodge du Volcan. Carry on straight ahead, keeping to the right, for a few dozen metres.
(3) To the left of the path is the Oratoire Sainte Thérèse, with votive offerings and flowers. It is advisable to retrace your steps slightly and approach the edge of the cliff to enjoy a fantastic panoramic view of the Plaine des Sables and the eastern rim of the crater.
The return to the Pas des Sables car park is via the same route (A/D).
Visorando Member
Moderate 
Difficult 
