The Cap Méchant is one of the concealed treasures beneath the luxuriance of the southern coast.  The wild character of the ocean contrasts with the lush vegetation.  A peaceful atmosphere in the midst of a diversed landscape.     

One of the pleasant spots along the southern coast in Réunion Island is truly the Cap Méchant.  Don't worry.  Its name won't put you in dangerous situation.  It neither causes fear nor an ounce of fright.  The Cap Méchant is one of these small concealed treasures beneath the vegetation unveiled right in the ocean.  Hence, named as the Cap Méchant due to its swell that breaks against the cliff, it is one of the most distinctive panoramas along the southern coast.                

At the northern entrance of the commune of Saint-Philippe, follow the signposting towards the RN2.  After a few bends, you'll spot a car park.  On your right-hand side, you'll spot a restaurant, "Cap Méchant" which is watching over the premises for years.  At the far end of the car park, there is a small staircase which allows one to have a first view over the Cap Méchant.     

Lawn likes carpet

All the magic of the place spark off on this left hand side.  Down the fabulous vacoas forest, a sea wall in natural black basalt throws out in the ocean.  The contrast between the green colour of the vacoas, the black colour of the rock and the blue of the ocean is breathtaking.     

One can continue its way further up to reach a picnic kiosk whereof it offers an unrestricted view over the natural arch.  The unceasing waves break without ever wearing out.  When the ocean rumbles, the Cap Méchant intensifies and becomes...worst.     

But, this natural malice is without repercussion - however, one is required to respect the barriers - and it calms down once it touches the grass.  The surprise arises when one walks barefooted along the seaside which offers a feeling as gentle and pleasant as a carpet.  A little further at the left, the vegetation has not concealed the volcano.  The black colour of the basalt rock reminds the visitor that the Piton de la Fournaise is nearby.            

Sea spray

Similarly, at the right of the sea wall, an impressive view is being offered to the public.  The natural arch seems smaller but the noise of the waves which are breaking against the shore increase the strong feelings casted off by the ocean.  One only needs to go at the jetty to understand the power of the Indian Ocean.  The visitor finds himself right in the heart of the southern coast enjoying a blast of sea spray.     

Whilst returning, the calmness and the peacefulness beneath the vacoas, badamiers, casuarinas and palm trees inspire one to a complete peace of mind.  In this place, the lawn stretch away as far as the eye can see.  To make the most of this place, one must spend a whole day and enjoy a lunch.  This picnic atmosphere is the most known of the island.  The mixed race of the intense colours is the most pleasant in Réunion Island.        

Text and photos - Véronique Tournier
December 2007