Réunion Island is a French overseas department, or rather a dependent territory of France. It is located in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and Mauritius. Réunion is a destination that fans of stunning landscapes, trekking, and beautiful beaches will love. This small French island is mainly visited by the French, but that may soon change. Not only is the beautiful weather inviting, but also the stunning nature. How to spend your time on Réunion has been described in a few of the attractions available on Réunion.
Beaches in Reunion. Reunion is a volcanic island, so there’s no shortage of both sandy and rocky beaches. The crystal-clear, azure waters and excellent weather are perfect for relaxation. The stretches of sand aren’t as charming as those in the Seychelles or the Maldives, but they have their own unique atmosphere. Reunion’s beaches encourage water sports and exploring the underwater world. The waves in the Indian Ocean will attract surfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts. Although there aren’t many coral reefs, it’s worth donning a mask and snorkel to see what’s hidden beneath the water. During such a trip, you can spot dolphins, whales, and even turtles. Which beaches are worth visiting while in Reunion?
Grande Anse Beach – located in a cozy and picturesque bay, surrounded by basalt rocks and enormous coconut palms. The shore is covered with white sand, but swimming here is difficult due to strong currents. Therefore, a makeshift pool has been created on the southern part of the beach, where tourists and even children can feel safe. Near the beach, there is a parking lot, as well as several cafes and restaurants.
L’Hermitage Beach – one of the most beautiful spots on the island. Its golden sand and blue water attract many tourists. Located inside a lagoon, it is quite spacious. It is worth bringing a snorkeling mask or purchasing one from a nearby shop. The waters near this beach are very interesting.
Boucan Canot Beach – located in a spacious bay, it is an ideal choice for holidays with children. The entrance to the water is very gentle, and there is a wide range of beach facilities nearby. It is a great place for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing.
Black Rocks Beach – contrary to appearances, this beach has golden sand, but is primarily intended for adults. This is due to the very steep drop into the water. There’s a restaurant and parking nearby.
Saint-Pierre Beach – the spacious shoreline ensures a comfortable stay, but you should wear safety shoes before entering the water. Tourists say it’s an ideal spot for snorkeling.
Saint-Denis is the island’s capital. Arriving in Réunion, you’ll land in the island’s capital, Saint-Denis. It’s no coincidence that this city is nicknamed the Paris of the Indian Ocean or the City of Art and History. It’s worth taking some time to explore the area to see the oldest French mosque, the Noor-e-Islam, the Jardin de l’État botanical garden, and the Natural History Museum (Museum d’Histoire naturelle). The botanical garden was built in the 18th century, and the museum building is colonial in style. In the historic center, you can admire 19th-century Creole houses, which are sure to appeal to architecture lovers. While visiting Saint-Denis, you can also see the cathedral, which dates back to 1832. We recommend visiting the Grand Marchê market, where you can find fresh vanilla, local produce, and exotic fruits.
Piton de la Fournaise Volcano. A trip to the volcano is a must-do on any trip to Réunion. Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, a shield volcano, and covers almost 40% of the southeastern part of the island, covered in solidified lava. You can spend the night at the Gîte du Volcan mountain hut and then summit the peak first thing in the morning.
Biberon Cascade, a waterfall. Réunion is an island of waterfalls. Biberon Cascade is said to be one of the most beautiful. Easily accessible, it is located in the Plaine des Palmistes commune. It measures 250 meters and is approximately 1,000 meters above sea level. A 1.5-kilometer trail leads to this waterfall, with a drop of 120 meters.
Maïdo, a viewpoint located in the highlands of the town of Saint-Paul, boasts a panoramic view at an altitude of 2,190 meters above sea level. On a clear day, you can enjoy exceptional views of the Cirque de Mafate caldera, the impressive extinct volcano Piton des Neiges, and the surrounding peaks. This is a very popular destination, and tourists can be found there both day and night. Some choose to stay overnight near the viewpoint to watch the sunrise at the summit.
Cap Mechant is one of Reunion’s most beautiful, wild coastlines. Located near the town of Saint-Philippe, it captivates visitors with its steep, black cliffs and the blue waves crashing against their shores. At the foot of one of the cliffs lies a mysterious 10-meter-deep well, which has been off-limits for years. On weekends, locals enjoy picnics there. Cap Mechant is a great place for a walk, but be careful and stay away from the shore, as the waves here are incredibly powerful.
About the Island
*Réunion isn’t a popular vacation destination, but it’s certainly worth visiting for its pristine nature and breathtaking views.
*The island is dominated by a volcanic landscape, which, together with the lush vegetation, creates a paradise-like atmosphere.
*Tourists visit the island for its beautiful beaches, with sand as white as the Maldives, to sunbathe or engage in water sports such as surfing or kitesurfing.
*The most popular beaches include Grande Anse, De L’Hermitage, Black Rocks, and Saint-Pierre Beach.
*Réunion is also an ideal place for active vacationers. The island boasts numerous mountain trails offering not only a wealth of adventure but also spectacular views, such as numerous waterfalls.
*While on the island, it’s certainly worth visiting the capital, Saint-Denis, with its many monuments inspired by French architecture.
*Other attractions in Reunion include the Piton de la Fournaise, an active volcano, the Biberon Cascade waterfall, the Maïdo viewpoint, and Cap Mechant, which evokes legends of pirates who used to visit the area.
