Beachcomber - Luxury holiday specialists to the Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius, the Seychelles, Reunion and Africa

Reunion is a fantastic holiday destination with a wide variety of sightseeing and adventure activities combined with beaches, markets and more. Some places to see include:

The Cirques
As a volcanic island, the geography of Reunion is unique, with the island’s natural formations being its three cirques, formed as the inside of Piton des Neiges, the volcano that gave birth to Reunion Island. Often referred to as natural amphitheatres, the cirques – Salazie, Cilaos, and Mafate – are each different in vegetation and terrain.

Cilaos
The dramatic Cirque de Cilaos is a natural wonder and visitors love the memorable drive that leads them toward the stunning cirque, with all its twists and turns and numerous tunnels. When you reach the cirque itself, you’ll be treated to colourful fields of flowers, forests of unique indigenous trees, and pounding waterfalls that attract the most avid canyoners. Rock climbing expeditions are popular while hiking and trekking along the many trails are an excellent way to see this spectacular cirque. The village of Cilaos also offers travellers a chance to visit some local vineyards, view lentil production, see some beautiful embroidery work and view the unique thermal baths.

Mafate
Cirque de Mafate is totally surrounded by mountains and is only accessible by foot or by helicopter. This cirque is a favorite destination for hikers as they can explore this unspoiled wilderness in peace. A number of mountain gites (small cabins) are available to accommodate those who desire an overnight stay. For spectacular views of Cirque de Mafate, the view point at Maido Peak, 2200 metres high is highly recommended while the ultimate viewpoint is from a helicopter.

Salazie
Cirque de Salazie is the largest and greenest of the island’s three natural amphitheatres. This cirque is a long, deep canyon, lined with over one hundred magnificent waterfalls, and a variety of hills and valleys ready to be explored. One of the most breathtaking waterfalls is Le Voile de la Mariée. After hiking through Salazie’s steep gorges, travellers can enjoy a stop at the homely village of Hell-Bourg. This enchanting little mountain village has beautiful Creole houses, indulgent cuisine and colourful flower gardens and previously received the coveted “most beautiful French villages” award from France.

Volcano - Piton de la Fournaise
Situated in the southeast corner of Reunion is Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Piton de la Fournaise (Furnace Peak) is approximately 2,631m high and is one of the islands most popular tourist attractions. Tourists can walk to the top of the mountain and even camp near the rim of the volcano. A helicopter flight is also a spectacular way to experience this amazing sight.

Saint Denis
Reunion’s capital city, Saint Denis is the northern most city on the island and surrounded by mountains on three sides. This fascinating city, home to the island’s main international airport, has plenty to offer visitors including charming Creole architecture, historical monuments, cultural sites, art galleries, museums and many shopping opportunities. Saint Denis also offers the best restaurant scene on the island.

St Gilles-les-Bains
St Gilles-les-Bains is the islands main region for beach holidays with a 20 km stretch of lagoon and golden sand, a rarity on an island where most of the sand is of black volcanic variety. The St Gilles-les-Bains region, including Boucan Canot to la Saline-les-Bains, is also home to many restaurants, cafes and bars providing a vibrant nightlife and holiday atmosphere. Diving and snorkelling are also popular activities in this region.

St Leu
St Leu, located on the west coast, is the islands number one surfing location, where surfing enthusiasts from all around come to experience the fine left hand break. St Leu also offers a fun vibe with quirky surfer bars and shops adding to the beach lifestyle.

Hellbourg
Located on the edge of the Cirque de Salazie, Hellbourg is one of the jewels in Reunion Island’s crown. This lovely mountain village, named after an early governour, has long been lauded for its charm and is the deserving recipient of France’s “most beautiful French village” award. The Creole architecture in the town of Hellbourg is stunning. Many visitors spend the majority of their time touring and photographing these splendid homes and public buildings and the beautiful gardens that often grace the front yards.

Adrenalin Sports
If you’re looking for excitement and adrenalin pumping action, try any of the following activities: Hang gliding, Paragliding, Kayaking, Rafting, Canyoning, Jet ski, Waterski, Surfing, Deep Sea Fishing, Sky Diving, Mountain Biking, Trekking.

Hire A Car
Cars can be rented at the Airport as well as in the capital, Saint Denis. Roads are well maintained, although traffic can be heavy during peak periods. There are local buses on the island that connect the island’s main towns and taxis are available.

Discover the island by Helicopter
The ultimate way to view the stunning scenery of Reunion is by helicopter. This 45-minute trip takes you over the Cirque of Mafate, the only Cirque inaccessible by car and then onto the Cirque of Salazie. Here you will pass by the Voile de la Mariée and enter the Trou de Fer through the Bras des Cavernes guaranteeing a sensational adrenalin rush. Continue towards the volcano, Piton de la Fournaise by flying over the forests of Plaine des Palmistes. The enclosure of the volcano will be explored by flying over the major crater. You will continue over the Plaine des Cafres before arriving at the Cirque of Cilaos followed by a flight over Piton Maïdo. Other options of shorter duration are also available.