Reunion

Reunion is a stunning volcanic island in the Indian Ocean that is home to verdant forests, breathtaking waterfalls, rich coral reefs and lovely beaches. This is truly a honeymooner’s paradise packed with jaw-dropping natural beauty. Réunion is an overseas department of France, and French is the official language. Just like its varied natural setting, Reunion also features a diverse local culture which is a melting pot of French, Indian, African and Chinese cultures. Réunion has been a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts for a long time, offering a wide range of activities to choose from. The island is known to have around a thousand kilometres of hiking trails alone. In addition to this, you can also enjoy other activities such as paragliding, canyoning, mountain biking, rafting and diving.

The Piton de la Fournaise volcano is the most famous attraction on the island. It is one of the world’s most active and accessible volcanoes and you can hike up to the crater rim. You can also opt for a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of the crater.

Hell-Bourg, located in the centre of Reunion, is a hiking paradise with rugged mountainous terrain. For the best hiking experience visit the Foret de Bebour-Belouve and as you follow the walking trails into this thick forest, you will soon be away from the hustle-bustle of modern life.

Réunion is known for its cirques, which are hollow semicircular valleys: Cirque de Cilaos, Cirque de Mafate, and Cirque de Salazie. St-Pierre, in the island’s southern region, is the best place to base yourself before your cirque exploration. All these three cirques are covered by verdant forests and offer great hiking. The Cirque de Mafate is considered the most impressive and it can be accessed either by foot or helicopter. The hiking trails in this region are unparalleled as it feels like you have walked into a different world. The town of Saint-Leu featuring charming French architecture, in the west is another adventure capital on the island. The town’s beach is famous for world-class surfing and paragliding. Whale-watching and diving are also quite popular.

The resort towns of St-Gilles-les-Bains and Boucan Canot are popular among tourists with their pristine beaches and luxury resorts.

Réunion is a natural retreat, where you can enjoy that much needed break from routine life and soothe yourself with its refreshing natural environment. Verdant forests and mountains coupled with aquamarine waters and sandy beaches make it a perfect holiday destination.