Réunion Island: A holiday to remember in the Indian Ocean

Why?  An amazing tropical island of contrasts – not only there is splendid volcanic landscape with exotic mountains and wonderful waterfalls to feast your eyes on, but white sandy beaches lie on the west and black ones on the south as well, making it a truly unique place.

One of the best things about the Réunion island is its multicultural society. It is very common to see on each corner a church next to a mosque, a pagoda, or a Tamil temple. Everybody coexists harmoniously side by side. What happiness!

The must-do’s:

1- See at least one of the 3 Cirques (“Cirque means caldera): the Cirque de Salazie, the Cirque de Cilaos and the Cirque de Mafate.

They are called Salazie – Cilaos  – and Mafate. These calderas were caused by the eruption of one of the two volcanos on the island, the Piton des Neiges. The Piton des Neiges is inactive but the other one called The Piton de la Fournaise is still active.

If you have time only for one, follow our lead and head to Salazie caldera. It features deep and green exotic mountains with stunning waterfalls running down. It also contains a lovely village called Hell-Bourg. And while you’re at it, don’t miss The Villa Folio – an incredible Creole house listed as a historical monument. We swear you won’t regret it!

The Cirque de Mafate is also worth a visit as it is the most secluded part of the island. From Cilaos, it is possible to reach it by hiking for 4 or 5 hours.

Alternatively, you could also see these 3 cirques and the volcanoes by helicopter ride (approx. USD333 per person) for 45 minutes.

2- Go on the sensational Plantation Vanilla Bourbon excursion in Sainte-Rose – which lies on the East coast of the island –  Guided tours operate from Monday to Saturday at 9:00 a.m. and 1 p.m and cost around USD10 per person.

3- Visit the Distillerie de Savanna – which is a sugar refinery where you get to learn the secrets of making rum. At the end of the tour, we were invited to savour not only the many types of fine vintage rum (some of which were very similar to a good cognac) – but also the main products made from the liquor. One of the highlights was the succulent real vanilla caramel spread brightened up by a subtle touch of rum. The tour costs approx. USD7 per person. For more information, click here.

4- Experience the Plaine des Sables: Located at the foot of the Piton de la Fournaise volcano – there are no flowers nor trees here – just a lunar landscape of red and black rocks which make you feel like you are on the planet Mars. An incredible experience not to be missed!

Other things worth checking out:

– The Bassin de la Paix waterfall at Rivière des Roches in the East (10m falls) – A pure natural beauty.

– The Volcanic Gardens of the peaceful village of Saint-Philippe in the south of the island.

– The Covered Market of Saint-Pierre and its numerous handicrafts which sell at very good prices.

What and where to eat?

Reunionese cuisine is a unique mixture of the heritage of the island’s ancestors who came from Africa, Europe and Asia. One of the best restaurants to try the local delicacies is the Reflet des Iles in the North.

We tried and loved:

– The Carry de Poulet a local rendition of chicken curry.

–The Rougail de saucisses which is good quality sausages in a wonderful creole tomato sauce.

–The Carry de langoustes, a delicious lobster curry – a must try!

– The sweet potato cake called Gateau patate makes for a divine dessert!

Where to stay?

-The Palm Hotel & Spa located in the south of the island. It is an authentic hotel which combines comfort, design, discreet luxury and Zen ambience! – Approx. USD292 per night.

-The Lux Ile la Réunion hotel located alongside L’Ermitage beach – Approx. USD290 per night.

Dance to: Maloya or Sega  – the two lively and major music genres of the island.

What to pack? Your walking shoes, sun cream, mosquito repellent, sunglasses, swimwear, cap, and a pullover for the hike in Mafate.

How to get there? Travel via Chennai for convenient and affordable options.

Lindsay POUI-DI