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Réunion Island: France's Most Extraordinary Territory — Worth the Journey?
Adventure Travel

Réunion Island: France's Most Extraordinary Territory — Worth the Journey?

Editorial Team·Founder & Lead Travel Editor13 min read
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An active volcano that erupts several times a year. Three ancient calderas so dramatic they look like the surface of another planet. Beaches of black volcanic sand and white coral. Creole cuisine that is among the finest in the Indian Ocean. Réunion is France's best-kept secret.

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  • ·**Weather:** Warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C.
  • ·**Crowds:** Moderate. The summer holidays attract some tourists.
  • ·**Prices:** High, especially around February when Carnival celebrations occur.
  • ·**Events:** Carnival in February, featuring vibrant parades and local music.

  • ·**Weather:** Pleasant and cooler, averaging 20°C to 25°C.
  • ·**Crowds:** Decreasing as the school holidays end.
  • ·**Prices:** Moderate, with some deals available.
  • ·**Events:** The Cilaos lentil festival in May showcases local cuisine.

  • ·**Weather:** Cool and dry, with temperatures between 15°C to 22°C.
  • ·**Crowds:** Peak season for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • ·**Prices:** Higher due to increased demand.
  • ·**Events:** Various local festivals celebrating Creole culture.

  • ·**Weather:** Warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor adventures.
  • ·**Crowds:** Moderate, with many locals enjoying the beautiful weather.
  • ·**Prices:** Moderate to high, especially around Christmas.
  • ·**Events:** The Festival of the Sea in December celebrates local maritime culture.

  • ·**Le Cilaos**: A cozy guesthouse in Cilaos with comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local dishes. Prices start around €60 per night.
  • ·**Gîte de la Plaine**: Located in Mafate, this rustic gîte offers dormitory-style accommodations starting at €50, perfect for hikers.

  • ·**Hotel Le Saint Pierre**: A charming hotel in Saint-Pierre with modern amenities, a pool, and a restaurant. Prices begin at €120 per night.
  • ·**La Villa Delisle**: Located in Saint-Gilles, this hotel features a spa and easy access to the beach, starting at €150 per night.

  • ·**LUX* Saint Gilles**: This upscale resort in Saint Gilles boasts stunning beachfront views, a lavish spa, and world-class dining, with prices starting at €350 per night.
  • ·**Domaine de l’Orangeraie**: Located in the heart of nature, this luxury retreat offers exquisite villas and personalized service, with rates beginning at €400 per night.

  • ·**From Amsterdam:** KLM offers flights to Réunion with a stopover in Paris, taking approximately 14-16 hours.
  • ·**From London:** Air France and British Airways fly to Réunion via Paris, with travel times around 14-15 hours.
  • ·**From NYC:** Air France connects through Paris, taking about 20 hours total.

  • ·**Car Rentals:** Renting a car is advisable for exploring the island at your own pace, with prices starting from €30/day.
  • ·**Public Transport:** Buses connect major towns, but schedules can be infrequent. Prices range from €1.50-€3 per trip.

  • ·**Saint-Denis to Cilaos:** Approximately 2 hours by car.
  • ·**Saint-Denis to Mafate (via hike):** Requires a full day of hiking, best started early in the morning.
  • ·**Saint-Denis to Salazie:** About 1.5 hours by car.

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