Reunion Island
We’ve compiled the best of the best in Reunion Island - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
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We’ve compiled the best of the best in Reunion Island - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
The collapse of a large shield volcano created this lush amphitheatre-like valley—one of three on the island. But exploring Cirque de Mafate, on the island's northwest side, is no cakewalk. It's a rugged wonderland of sheer ravines, jagged mountain peaks, and thick forests with no access roads; it's only open to hikers and helicopters. First settled by escaped slaves, the cirque only has one village, La Nouvelle, and a handful of smaller hamlets where hikers can find food and lodging. If you're not up for hiking any of the 86 miles of trails, you can view the area from the 6,500-foot Maido Peak, a scenic overlook on the edge of the cirque that's accessible by car.
Reunion's very active, but friendly volcano, Piton de la Fournaise, is the centerpiece of Reunion National Park, a designated World Heritage Site. The Park covers 42% of the island and its biodiversity is hard to match. There are 1,600 native plants species and 91 species of birds, like the Reunion harrier and cuckooshirke. Access to the crater rim is a relatively easy hike, but check ahead. The path is often closed due to frequent volcano activity. The reddish rock and ash, lunar-like landscape of Plaine des Sables is just north of the crater.
Authentic Creole spirit may be in short supply at this west coast resort village, but fun, sun, and surf can be found in spades. Saint-Gilles-Les-Bains is especially popular with families, who come for the waterparks, white sand beaches, aquariums, and botanical gardens. Adults can take advantage of the casinos and nightclubs after dark. The area is also popular with surfers, snorkelers, and scuba divers.
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