A peaceful and calm spot along the road towards Salazie, invites all those who are looking to relax.  Full of history, the “mare à poule d’eau” unveils itself right in the heart of the cirque whereof christophine and casuarinas embellish the landscape.    

The “Mare à poule d’eau” is one of the ilets on the upper parts of Réunion Island.  Nestled right in the middle of the cirque of Salazie, it is famous for its shimmering vegetation that is mainly due to heavy rainfall.  A small stretch of water is found nearby the spot and to which it owes its name.  It’s a place that abounds in history.       

In ancient times, (see elsewhere) the first landowners used this place to cultivate various vegetables and fruits.  Since the pond abounds in fish, this has enabled these families to eat properly.  The remains of the residence can still be seen along the bank whereof the stones are piled up and covered with vegetation.    

The place has always been popular amongst the freshwater fishermen.  They come to fish the tilapia or the fish of Saint-Pierre.  Even if, the lake has been destroyed following a crumbling during the cyclone of Hyacinthe in 1980, it has been redeveloped for the fishermen, tourists and locals who appreciate this enchanting surrounding.     

An easy access

One often forgets to drop by at “Mare à poule d’eau” on ones way to the village of Salazie.  Yet it’s worth the trip.  Leaving the village of Salazie and towards Hell Bourg, just before the intersection to Grand ilet, lies the bridge of Savanne.  On the right, a path leads the wonderer.  One needs to walk for a quarter of an hour to reach the “mare à poule d’eau.”  It’s a mini hiking in the middle of bamboo plantations.  The stretch of water is, then outlined.
           
At first sight, one’ll quickly be spelled by the landscape: the pond is surrounded with mountains which are reflected in water.  The christophines plantations are verging on the casuarinas and bamboos.  All is harmony. 

A small dirt track goes round the pond of water.  The fauna (toads, tadpoles and moorhen…)   and the flora (taro and casuarinas…) are having a great time at the edge of the pond.  A little further, on the right side, one’ll spot a few tables and stoves.  After a tasteful lunch, one can, then enjoy an enchanting siesta in the bamboo, lulled by the wind and birds’ song.
   
Text and photos: Véronique Tournier
December 2007