There is no end of things to visit, whilst enjoying a day out around the island’s coastline, to such an extent that it can become difficult to agree on the itinerary.   From north to south via the lowlands, there are numerous possibilities that allow one to explore the assets of the island.  For all nature lovers, here is an insight into the imperative coastal visits.  Cheap, educative and entertaining, these outings will ensure that you have an enjoyable and well-filled day out.

Réunion Island is small and yet there is a whole panoply of activities of all sorts for its visitors.  For nature lovers wanting to spend a day travelling around the coast, there are endless parks and botanical gardens.

The "Jardin de l’Etat" is to be found in the heart of Saint Denis, the main town on the island.  Spread over nearly a hectare, this botanic lair is home to 500 trees and shrubs, planted along the flower-bordered paths leading to the natural history museum.  Originally called the “Jardin du Roy” and created between 1767 and 1773, this garden was first used as a reservoir for imported plants in order to allow them to get used to the island’s climate, as well as being a public garden.

Over time the area has been transformed to become an imperative place to visit, synonymous with beauty and history.  It has now become traditional for newlyweds to have their photographs taken in front of the huge trees that grow in this park.

A bit further down the coast, in the bay of Saint Paul, opposite the marine cemetery, there is the cave of the first Frenchmen: home of the island’s first colonists.  Full of deep and mysterious caves, this small part of paradise attracts the crowds thanks to its exotic verdant gardens. 

The small rivers that flow through here (due to the overhanging cliffs) give the park that same magical feeling that is to be found up in the mountains.  One can also taste a traditional drink, coconut water, greatly appreciated for its’ freshness. 


Back on the ‘route nationale’, a stop off at the “Jardin d’Eden” is obligatory for all amateurs of tropical plants.  Philippe Kaufmant, an agricultural engineer, passionate about botany, created this landscaped garden, near Saint Gilles, in 1990. 

It is spread out over 2.5 hectares and is home to nearly 700 tropical plant species. An added treat when visiting this recomposed garden in the presence of ‘endormis’ (multicoloured lizards found on Réunion Island) that one can spot on the branches of certain plants.  Over time, this garden has become a tourist spot where one can eat, relax and learn.  Allow at least three hours in order to visit it properly.

Finally, this outing heads for the sea and leads one to Saint Leu and the Observatory of Marine Turtles: Kélonia.  Previously called the “Ferme de Corail”, the building was completely restored and has now become a professional institute for the observation of marine turtles.