Cirque de Mafate caldera on Reunion Island

Reunion Island

A rugged emerald and chocolate tumble of volcanic formations, the Francophone island of Reunion is a stunning contrast of mountains, beaches and hidden waterfalls.

Whilst nearby Mauritius typifies Indian-Ocean tranquillity with its desert-island beaches, Reunion offers a more active, and arguably more eye-catching, experience. Yet, this green gem – uncut, jagged to the eye – remains intriguingly European, as befits an island that has been French territory for almost 400 years.

Seascape at la Pointe au Sel, Saint Leu in la Reunion Island
Sainte Anne, Reunion

A little more about Reunion

Just 63 kilometres long, this tiny island rises impressively out of the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. 40% of the island is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, incorporating the vast calderas that make up this volcano graveyard. The highest peak amongst these is the Piton de Neiges, which towers over the island, rising to a precipitous 3,069-metre peak.

To the south of this jumble of basalt crags, volcanic depressions and plant-rich slopes, the Piton de La Fournaise still rumbles with life.

One of the most active volcanoes in the world, its lava flows sporadically slide towards the ocean – meeting the water with a colossal eruption of steam and sound. The surrounding landscape is arid and lunar in nature, contrasting wonderfully with the tropically verdant mountain slopes to the north.

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View from the edge of the caldera of Ma�, Saint Leu, Reunion
Saint-Leu, Reunion

Reunion and Mauritius – Self Drive and Beach

Explore the volcanic landscapes of Reunion, driving around this pocket-sized French island – lost in the Indian Ocean. Continue to the beaches of Mauritius, staying at the beautifully positioned 20 Degrees Sud, a boutique hotel beside the warm ocean.

15 days

from £3,105 pp

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Explore Reunion Island

  • Piton de la Fournaise
  • Cique de Mafate
  • Cirque de Cilaos
  • Cape Mechant

Experiences

What do you really love doing? We curate your itinerary especially for you

On the slopes of the volcano Piton de la Fournaise, Reunion Island
Reunion Island

Piton de La Fournaise

Cycle up the lunar slopes of the Piton de La Fournaise – past lava flows and with views of the impressive peak.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Cirque de Mafate caldera on Reunion Island
Reunion Island

Hiking in Reunion Island

Hike through this exotic landscape – up dormant volcanic craters and through birdlife-rich forests.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Trois Bassin waterfall on Reunion Island
Reunion Island

Waterfalls

Visit the numerous beautiful waterfalls – big and small – that cascade down this volcanic landscape.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Scenic view of Dolomieu Crater of the Piton de la Fournaise volcano, Reunion Island
Reunion Island

Helicopter Adventure

Fly by helicopter amongst stunning calderas, past thundering waterfalls and over the smoking rim of the Piton de La Fournaise.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Where to stay

Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.

Blue Margouillat £££££

  • Reunion Island

Built in an attractive Creole style, the beautiful Blue Margouillat looks out towards the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Its whitewashed exterior is topped with an unusual turquoise roof, whilst tropical gardens surround the main building, dotted with frangipani and palm trees. The beach is only a 15-minute walk away, with the hotel found on the edge of Saint-Leu. 12 comfortable sea-view bedrooms and two suites make up the accommodation options at the Blue Margouillat. All rooms feature a terrace or veranda with views over the Bay of Saint-Leu, as well as air conditioning and an en-suite bathroom. Other facilities include an outdoor restaurant, private gardens and an outdoor pool.

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Diana Dea Lodge £££££

  • Reunion Island

Sitting above fields of sugar cane amidst verdant, tree-dotted hills, the tranquil Diana Dea Lodge is positioned within sight of the island’s rugged coast. The chic, dark-wood design is set against panoramic views of the magnificent volcanic landscape. Inside, accommodation consists of 29 rooms and one suite. Each room is decorated in a simple, modern style that retains a colourful character, whilst the walls are dotted with eye-catching paintings. Amenities include a beautiful infinity pool that faces the Indian Ocean, as well as a library, restaurant and spa.

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Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Illona Cross

Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.

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