La Réunion in 15 days: the best itinerary

Reunion Island, nicknamed the "Intense Island", is a destination of choice, combining heavenly beaches, mountainous landscapes and unique volcanic terrain. With a rather small surface area (2512 m2, 3 times less than Corsica), a minimum stay of 15 days is necessary to explore the whole island without (too) much hurry. To make sure you don't miss out on any of Réunion's must-sees, here's our recommended itinerary, designed to avoid long journeys, as well as the activities and visits you need to make.

Days 1-3: Saint-Gilles and the lagoon

Recommended accommodation: Saint-Gilles-les-Bains or La Saline-les-Bains

Days 4-5: Cirque de Cilaos and walks

• Day 4 : Early departure for cirque of Cilaos via the legendary Route aux 400 virages, an adventure in itself with breathtaking panoramas. Discover the charming village of Cilaos, famous for its lentils and wine. Stroll along the Roche Merveilleuse for a panoramic view of the cirque. You can also relax at the Cilaos thermal baths.

- Day 5 : Walk to the Bras Rouge waterfall (moderate level, approx. 3 hours) or hike along the sentier de la Chapelle (difficult level, 5h) with swimming in the natural water slides or, for thrill-seekers, canyoning in the gorges of Cilaos.

Recommended accommodation: Gîte or hotel in Cilaos

Day 6-7: Saint-Pierre and Piton de la Fournaise

If you don't feel like doing 6 hours of hiking, you can do the Morne Langevin hikeThere are superb views from the Pas de Bellecombe without any change in altitude.

After your hike, it's best to sleep in the area around Le Tampon, so as not to lose too much time for the next day.

Recommended accommodation day 6: Saint-Pierre

Recommended accommodation day 7: Le Tampon

Days 8-9: Saint-Joseph, the Sud Sauvage and the Langevin waterfall

• Day 8 : From Le Tampon, head south, stop at Saint-Joseph for a relaxing day

Exploring the wild coast and swimming in the pool in the ocean of Manapany-les-Bains. Take a break at the Marine de Vincendo, a charming pebble beach (swimming not recommended due to the risk of sharks). From here, stroll along the coastal path leading to Cap Jaune, a fascinating geological formation. Stop at the Cap Méchant to admire the power of the waves crashing against the cliffs.

Recommended accommodation: Saint-Joseph

• Day 9 : Day trip on the Langevin River

In the morning, canyoning activity in the Langevin canyon (Petit Galet). This activity is open to all, from age 7, and ends at the magnificent Cascade Langevin, with a zip line.

In the afternoon, enjoy a picnics and swimming in the Langevin river basins.

In the evening, set off for Saint-Philippe.

Recommended accommodation: Saint-Philippe

Day 10: Saint-Philippe, lava tunnels and Sainte-Rose

Days 11-12: Cirque de Salazie or Mafate

Option 1: Cirque de Salazie / Hell-Bourg & Voile de la Mariée waterfall

- Day 11 : Drive to the Salazie cirque, the greenest on the island. Stop off at the Voile de la Mariée waterfall, then visit the village of Hell-Bourg, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Stroll through the narrow streets lined with colourful Creole houses.

- Day 12 : Hike through the primary forest of Bélouve to discover the Trou de Fer, an impressive waterfall plunging into a chasm several hundred metres deep.

Recommended accommodation : Hell-Bourg

Option 2: Immersion in the Mafate cirque

- Day 11 : Early departure for the Col des Bœufs and hike to the isolated village of La Nouvelle (3-hour walk). Total immersion in the cirque, with no access by road. Overnight in a local gîte.

- Day 12 : Return hike or helicopter flight for an unforgettable experience.

Recommended accommodation: Gîte in Mafate

Day 13: Saint-Benoit and swimming in the river

• Day 13 : Back to Saint-Benoit

Excursion to the Takamaka valley :and discover the gorges of the Marsouins river and a string of waterfalls tumbling down the green peaks

Picnic around the Bassin Bleu in Sainte Anne

Afternoon: swimming in the pools of the Rivière des Roches: Bassin La Paix and Bassin La Mer, accessible after a 1? hour hike.

In the evening: return to Saint-Gilles for a relaxing break before setting off

Recommended evening accommodation: around Saint-Gilles-les Bains

Day 14: Relaxing end to your stay in Saint-Gilles

• Day 14 : Back to Saint-Gilles, near Saint-Denis

Back west for a lazy day: snorkelling in the Hermitage lagoon, visiting the Garden of Eden and relaxing on the beach.

• Day 15 : Last sunrise on the beach, morning stroll around the port of Saint-Gilles before heading to the airport for the return flight.

Recommended accommodation: around Saint-Gilles-les Bains

A few tips from professionals about spending 15 days in Réunion

When should you leave?

La The best time to visit Réunion is between May and Novemberduring the southern winter. The climate is drier and the temperatures more pleasant for hiking.

How do I travel?

Renting a car is essential for exploring the island. Prices range from €25 to €50 per day. Fitted vans are also available for hire. All are available at Saint-Denis airport and in the town on arrival.

Where to stay?

Choose mountain gîtes for local immersion and hotels by the sea for a relaxing stay.

What you need to know before you leave

The climate varies according to altitude and the distances between each region are short but sometimes winding. Allow plenty of time for your journeys.