What to do in Sainte-Rose, Réunion: the essential things to do
Located on the east coast of Réunion Island, in the Sud Sauvage region, the commune of Sainte-Rose offers a multitude of activities and sites to discover. From exceptional natural areas to emblematic historic sites and local cultures, there's something for everyone! If you're wondering What to see and do in Sainte-Rose, Reunion Island Here are a few tips...
Enjoying the most beautiful natural sites in Sainte-Rose
La town of Sainte-Rose (Réunion) has a remarkable natural heritage, with lava flows from the Piton de la Fournaise and a coastline. Here's how to make the most of it...
Admire the Piton de la Fournaise and its lava flows
A trip to Sainte-Rose starts with a visit to the discover the fascinating Piton de la Fournaiseone of the world's most active volcanoes. You can reach the foot of the volcano by taking the road across the Plaine des Sables to Pas de Bellecombe. From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of this sleeping giant as you stroll or hike along the signposted paths.
In Sainte-Rose, the landscape sometimes seems lunar due to the previous eruptions of Piton de la Fournaise. In particular, as you head south towards Saint-Philippe, on the route des Laves. On this stretch of road, you can admire theétendue du Grand BrûléThis vast area is covered in lava from numerous volcanic eruptions.
Visit the Sainte-Rose lava tunnel, the result of the 2004 lava flow
If you want to go further in your discovery of lava flows, the visit to the lava tunnels is an experience not to be missed. In Sainte-Rose, visit the lava tunnel created by the 2004 flowthe longest on the island open to visitors to date.
In this cavity, you can admire the shapes created by the molten lava: stalagmites, stalactites, "chocolate" ceilings and other lava sculptures.
Mountain biking in the 1977 coulée bike park
Do you love mountain biking? A bike park has been created on the perimeter of the 1977 lava flow. 4 mountain bike trails, a total of 25 km of downhill riding at different levels, await you! The Bike Park is located at the foot of the Piton de la Fournaise, surrounded by forests and cane fields. A choice terrain, with a view of the sea...
Take a walk along the coastal path of Sainte-Rose, or sentier des pêcheurs (fishermen's path)
For a walk around Sainte-Rose, take the coastal pathalso known as Fishermen's trail. This trail takes you along the steeper, more recent coastline from Rivière de l'Est to Anse des Cascades, past the Port of Sainte-Rose, Cayenne, the 1977 coulee and Notre Dame-des-laves church.
You will also pass by the La Source site, with its beautiful panorama, to reach the Grand Brûlé.
It's a 4-hour walk, but well worth the diversions!
Indeed, this coastline is still very wild, combining the black of the basalt soil with the green of the vegetation and the blue of the ocean. The path is lined with vacoas and filaos, trees and plants typical of Réunion Island.
Stop off at L'Anse des Cascades
L'Anse des Cascades is a haven of peace where several streams cascade through lush greenery. This a magnificent site, typical of Réunion is also easily accessible by car and is perfect for a family day out. Enjoy a picnic in the shade of the coconut palms, before setting off on a hike along the coastal path.
Swimming in the natural pools
Enjoy the tropical climate of Réunion swimming in the natural pools which abound in the region. Not far from Sainte-Rose, in Saint-Benoît, for example, you can visit the Bassin Bleu to take a dip or simply relax on the rocks.
Landmarks to visit in Sainte-Rose
Notre Dame des Laves church
This small Catholic church in Sainte-Rose is a powerful symbol of resilience in the face of natural forces. Indeed, when the Piton de la Fournaise erupted in 1977, the lava flow stopped just in front of the altar, sparing the religious building from burning down. This event is considered a real miracle by the locals and is well worth a visit during your stay. That's why the church is called Notre Dame des Laves, after this singular event.
The suspension bridge between Saint-Benoît and Sainte-Rose
Since December 2023, a historic monument has been reopened to the public in Sainte-Rose: the Suspension bridge over the Rivière de l'Est. Built in 1894 and designed by Ferdinand Arnodin, it was at the time the longest suspension bridge in the world... It is also a place steeped in history for the island, as it helped to link the eastern and northern regions and to develop the sugar industry by facilitating the transport of sugar cane. Unfortunately, it was closed to traffic in 1976, as it no longer met safety standards.
Yet the Rivière de l'Est suspension bridge has always been part of Réunion's heritage. Listed as a historical monuments in 2018, it was selected in 2020 by Stéphane Bern's Fondation du Patrimoineto benefit from the Loto du patrimoine funds.
After 20 months of renovation work, the bridge is now reopened to pedestrians and cyclists, to everyone's delight!
Local culture in Sainte-Rose
Visit a vanilla plantation
In Sainte-Rose, you can visit two vanilla plantations. It's a great opportunity to find out more about the cultivation of this plant with its famous fragrance, and why not buy some vanilla souvenirs!
Discover the port of Sainte-Rose, a traditional fishing port
Fishing is an integral part of Reunionese culture, an ancestral art passed down from generation to generation. For an authentic experience, Rendezvous at the Sainte-Rose Marinaa bucolic port where you can observe local fishermen prepare their nets and head out to sea to catch fish and shellfish. You'll also find vestiges of colonisation: the famous guns or the Corbett monument.
Savour the local cuisine
During your stay, don't hesitate to sample the island's culinary specialities in local restaurants and markets. You'll find tasty dishes such as curry, rougail saucisse, samoussas and bonbons piments to delight your taste buds.
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