Réunion Island
Welcome to Réunion Island
Réunion Island is a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean. Famous for its volcanic landscapes, magnificent beaches and blended culture, this dream destination offers an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you are looking for spectacular hikes, cultural discoveries or relaxation on the beaches, Réunion Island will win you over with its diversity and beauty. With its imposing mountains, tropical forests and coral reefs, it is a true jewel of the Indian Ocean. From the beaches of Saint-Gilles to the peaks of Piton des Neiges, every corner of this island offers treasures to discover. Immerse yourself in Réunion's culture, savour its exquisite cuisine and let yourself be carried away by the magic of this exceptional destination.
Arriving on Réunion Island
Getting to Réunion Island is easy thanks to its many international air connections. Roland Garros Airport, located in Sainte-Marie near Saint-Denis, is the main entry point for travellers from around the world. Airlines such as Air France, Air Austral, Corsair and Air Mauritius offer flights from major cities. These flights make reaching this island paradise straightforward. On arrival, you will be welcomed by the gentle warmth of the tropical air and the welcoming smiles of Réunion's people. The airport is well equipped with transport services such as taxis, shuttles and car hire, making it easy to reach your accommodation.
Réunion Island has a varied and efficient transport network that makes travelling around the island easy. Car hire is a popular option for exploring the varied landscapes at your own pace, and the roads are well maintained and signposted. Car Jaune buses offer regular, reliable services for intercity journeys. For local travel, taxis and online transport services such as Uber are widely available. Organised excursions and local guides are also an excellent way to discover the island's hidden treasures.
Choosing your accommodation on Réunion Island
Réunion Island offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets and preferences. For those seeking luxury, beachfront resorts in Saint-Gilles, boutique hotels in Cilaos and lodges in the island's highlands offer world-class services and breathtaking views. These establishments often have spas, swimming pools and gourmet restaurants, perfect for a romantic getaway or a honeymoon. Gîtes and guesthouses, often set in beautiful natural surroundings, offer an equally comfortable alternative with a touch of character. Accommodation in the cirques of Mafate, Salazie and Cilaos is particularly popular for its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to natural sites.
Réunion cuisine
Réunion cuisine is a festival of flavours, reflecting the island's cultural and geographical diversity. Among its iconic dishes, cari is a must. This spicy meat or fish dish, often accompanied by rice, pulses (lentils, peas) and rougail (chilli sauce), is a delight for the taste buds. Another local delight is rougail saucisse, a tasty dish made with Creole sausages. Bouchon, a snack of pork or chicken wrapped in rice dough, is also a must. Bonbons piments, spicy chickpea fritters, are a delicious snack you will find in markets and street stalls.
To sample these culinary delights, Réunion Island offers a multitude of restaurants, from high-end establishments to small street stalls. Le D.C.P. restaurant in Saint-Gilles is renowned for its fresh fish dishes and friendly atmosphere. For a more local experience, head to the night markets of Saint-Paul or Saint-Denis, where you can taste a variety of traditional dishes. In Cilaos, Le Tsilaosa restaurant is famous for its authentic Creole cuisine and warm setting. For traditional Creole dishes, Chez Loulou restaurant in Saint-Joseph is an essential stop.
Tourist attractions
Réunion Island is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and varied landscapes. Réunion National Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to natural wonders such as Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and Piton des Neiges, the island's highest point. Hikes in the cirques of Mafate, Salazie and Cilaos offer breathtaking landscapes and varied trails for all levels. The Hermitage lagoon, with its turquoise waters and coral reefs, is another natural site not to be missed. The waterfalls of Langevin and Takamaka, with their crystal-clear waters and natural pools, offer moments of relaxation and pure beauty.
The beaches of Réunion Island, such as those of Saint-Gilles, Saint-Leu and l'Étang-Salé, are perfect for relaxing, swimming or enjoying water sports. Palm-fringed white and black sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters create an idyllic setting for an unforgettable holiday. The island's mountains and tropical forests offer opportunities for hiking and exploration, with spectacular landscapes and rich biodiversity. Hikes to Piton de la Fournaise and Piton des Neiges are unforgettable adventures for outdoor enthusiasts.
Activities and entertainment on Réunion Island
Réunion Island is an ideal playground for water sports and adventure enthusiasts. The beaches of Saint-Gilles and Saint-Leu are perfect for scuba diving, snorkelling and surfing. The coral reefs around the island offer incredible marine biodiversity, with dive sites suitable for all levels. For thrill seekers, try paragliding over Saint-Leu or canyoning in the island's rivers and waterfalls. Kayak, paddleboard and catamaran excursions offer a peaceful and active way to discover the lagoons and coral reefs.
Nightlife on Réunion Island is lively and varied, with something for every taste. Saint-Denis and Saint-Gilles are the main areas for going out, with a multitude of bars, clubs and discos. Blue Margouillat in Saint-Leu is an iconic place to enjoy live music and cocktails beside the beach. For a cultural experience, do not miss performances of maloya and séga, Réunion's traditional dances.
Shopping guide to Réunion Island
Réunion's markets are colourful, lively places where you can buy unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Shell jewellery, wooden sculptures and printed fabrics are popular purchases. Coconut objects, woven baskets and lacquerware are also sought-after souvenirs. Saint-Paul Market and Saint-Denis Market offer a variety of local crafts, handmade jewellery and works of art. Shops in seaside resorts also offer a selection of quality products, including beachwear, decorative items and beauty products.
For iconic Réunion Island products, do not miss shops specialising in spices and seafood products. Vanilla-based beauty products and essential oils are renowned for their therapeutic and aesthetic benefits. Souvenir shops in Saint-Gilles and Saint-Denis offer a selection of quality products, including traditional clothing, decorative items and works of art. Lightweight cotton clothing, colourful sarongs and beach accessories are also popular souvenirs. Fashion boutiques in Saint-Denis and Saint-Gilles offer creations by emerging Réunion designers, while shops in Cilaos sell carved wooden items, cotton clothing and decorative objects.
Immersion in Réunion Culture
French is the official language of Réunion Island, but Réunion Creole is also widely spoken. Learning a few phrases in Creole can greatly ease your journey and show your respect for the local culture. Réunion's people are known for their warmth and friendliness and will be delighted to share their culture with you. Festivals are an excellent opportunity to discover Réunion culture. Also take part in local cooking workshops, dance classes or village visits for a fully immersive experience. These activities allow you to understand local people's daily life and build meaningful connections with them.
Calendar of Events
Réunion Island is a land of festivals, with celebrations taking place throughout the year. Festival Liberté Métisse, in December, is one of the most spectacular events, with concerts, dances and art exhibitions. Sakifo Musik Festival, in May, is another major celebration, marked by concerts, art exhibitions and sporting competitions. The Grand Raid, in October, is a world-famous ultra-trail race, attracting participants from all backgrounds. Dipavali, in November, celebrates the island's Indian culture with parades, dances and traditional feasts.
Visiting Réunion Island is much more than a simple sightseeing trip. It is an immersion in a rich and diverse culture, a discovery of breathtaking landscapes and an encounter with warm and welcoming people. Whether you explore active volcanoes, relax on pristine beaches or savour spicy dishes, every moment spent on this island will leave an indelible mark on your heart. Réunion Island invites you to return, explore further and continue discovering its countless wonders. Whether for an adventure, a spiritual retreat or simply to relax, Réunion Island offers a multitude of unique and memorable experiences. Come and discover why this island is called the intense island and let yourself be captivated by its timeless magic.
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