Where is the best area to stay on Reunion island?
A French Indian Ocean island with rich cultural heritage and natural wonders including white sandy beaches, lush rainforests, waterfalls, lava seashores, and majestic UNESCO-listed “Pitons, Cirques and Ramparts”; Reunion has something for everyone!
Foodies and culture lovers will like the northern capital city of Saint-Denis’ creole architecture, vibrant arts scene, friendly bars, and restaurants. Beach lovers looking for entertainment and holiday activities will prefer the vibe and turquoise water of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains or the nearby Saint-Leu surf and paraglide spot that is also appreciated for its sugar cane museum, and turtle observatory. Both resorts are convenient to explore the west and adjacent highlands. A friendly seaside town, Saint-Pierre will conquer families and nature lovers who can drive up to the volcano, across the wild south, go canyoning, and visit plantations… But, a night in a cirque is a must-try! Authentic Salazie features eastern landscapes and waterfalls while western Cilaos offers a unique feel and thermal spas. Both promise great hikes, unique scenery, and memorable experiences.
Whether you want to explore this hiker’s paradise, delve into its local history and culture, marvel at astonishing panoramas, practice sports, or simply bask in the sun, Reunion island offers endless activities to choose from. Just find your best place to stay!
Located a few minutes from the main airport, Saint-Denis offers a good overview of culture and heritage that include charming architecture, diverse places of worship, awesome cuisine, and authentic music and dance listed as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.
Nestled in the eponymous cliff-rimmed cirque, Salazie is an enchanting place for those who love wild nature, lush rainforests, and incredible scenery. The cirque, which is accessible from the East, is home to some of the island’s most spectacular waterfalls including the famous Voile de la mariée.
If you dream of turquoise water and holiday activities, look no further, this is your perfect laid-back resort! In this western spot backdropped by the scenic Piton Maïdo, you will find some of the most beautiful white sand beaches and hotels on the island. Plus, Saint-Gilles-les-Bains offers many fun activities including diving experiences and other water activities, visits to the local aquarium, to amazing ethnobotanical Jardin d’Eden garden, or to Villèle an emblematic colonial estate now a museum.
As you drive down the west coast, you will reach this endearing seaside resort with picture-perfect pristine water and panoramic views. Besides a cool coastal atmosphere, Saint-Leu offers a pleasant countryside feel that is perceptible as you head to the local distillery of essential oils or the Stella Matutina Museum for more insight into the production of sugar cane and its impact on Reunion, its people, and culture.
The capital of the South is ideally located to visit the Cité du Volcan, drive through lunar landscapes up to the spectacular Piton de la Fournaise volcano, or down along the wild south’s craggy seashores. From there you may meander through impressive gardens of Curcuma, tea, vanilla, and spices, and experience a typical Reunion picnic on a Southern beach, near a coastal pool, by the river, or in the highlands.
Venture up the famous hair-pinned road to Cilaos, you will be highly rewarded. The curvy mountainous road will take you right below the legendary Piton des Neiges, Reunion’s highest peak and oldest volcano. Super-scenic Cilaos which sits in the heart of the eponymic cirque is a paradise for those longing for remoteness and serenity. There, you can choose to relax and indulge in the historic spa resort, enjoy pleasant walks, hike a dormant volcano, ride a mountain bike, or go ziplining or canyoning. You may also rent a bike to explore the village or navigate on the Mare à Jonc pool.
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