Reunion Island

The name Etang-Salé comes from the fact that there used to be a lake (“étang” in French) which is dried up today. Etang-Salé is a multifaceted town, both rural (l’Etang-Salé les-hauts) and coastal (l’Etang-Salé-les-Bains). Mainly residential, the town is becoming more and more popular with tourists. Its long volcanic black sand beach stretching over 1500 metres makes it different from other towns. Etang-Salé also boasts a small fishing port. When coming from Saint-Leu, have a look at the “souffleurs” from which spring 10 to 20 metres high sprays when there is a large swell. You will be amazed by another unusual sight: the gulf situated on the old route nationale. This natural site is very impressive and relatively dangerous when the sea is rough. The water goes back and forth with an extreme violence. Don’t even think about climbing over the fences!