Explore the Wild South of Reunion Island

Start your adventure at La Plage de Grande Anse, a picturesque bay lined with coconut and latan trees. With its white coral sand and lush picnic areas, this beach is ideal for a relaxing family day. Although swimming in the ocean is prohibited due to strong swells, a natural swimming pool allows safe bathing and snorkeling to observe tropical fish. Don’t miss the panoramic hike up to Piton Grande Anse for stunning views of the coast and even whale watching between June and September.

Next, head to Le Belvédère de Manapany, a charming viewpoint in Saint-Joseph. This hidden gem reveals a seaside treasure cherished by locals, including a natural seawater swimming pool. Manapany is also the only place where you can spot the rare and colorful Manapany Day Gecko, a species unique to Reunion Island.

Continue your discovery at Le Bassin de Manapany, a magical spot with volcanic rock pools ideal for swimming. Once a historic boat landing, today Manapany is renowned both as a surfing hotspot and for its natural seawater pools. Visit during the annual Manapany Festival for a lively cultural experience.

A highlight of the Wild South is the awe-inspiring Grand Galet Waterfall, located in Langevin. Surrounded by tropical vegetation, this multiple-stream waterfall is perfect for picnics, hiking, canyoning, and photography. The lush Langevin Valley invites both relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit spot in Reunion Island.

Don’t let the name fool you – Cap Méchant is one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the region. Here, powerful waves crash against ancient lava cliffs covered in soft grass and casuarinas. Follow the well-maintained trails to witness the raw power of the Indian Ocean, making it one of the most iconic landscapes of Reunion’s Wild South.

No trip to Reunion Island would be complete without witnessing the Lava Flows of 2007 and 2023. The dramatic eruptions of Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, reshaped the landscape forever. Drive along the Lava Route on National Road 2, where black lava fields contrast beautifully with lush greenery and the deep blue sea. Stop safely along the way to admire and photograph these incredible geological wonders.

A symbol of hope and resilience, the Notre Dame des Laves Church miraculously survived the 1977 eruption. Visit this unique site at Piton Sainte-Rose to learn about the historic lava flow that engulfed the village. The adjacent museum gallery offers a free short film recounting this incredible event. Inside the church, admire the Virgin under the Umbrella, another miraculous symbol of the island’s faith.

End your journey at L’Anse des Cascades in Sainte-Rose, a stunning cove surrounded by waterfalls,n palm trees, and a quaint fishing port. Enjoy a peaceful picnic under the shade, listen to the cascading waters, or simply relax by the pebble beach where freshwater meets the ocean. This tranquil site is a true hidden paradise in the Wild South of Reunion Island.