For updated information regarding the state of the trails, call the Forestry Commission « Allo Sentiers » service : 0262-37-38-39.

12 golden rules to go hiking in the best possible conditions
An updated list of the trails closed to the public

The Grand Etang is the only lake of its kind in Réunion Island. It is nestled between the steep cliffs of the Plaine des Palmistes. This natural lake was created thanks to a lava flow which acts as a boom on the Bras d’Annette. Its remote location attracts numerous birds that come here to nest. Réunion harriers, the only raptors of the island, can often be spotted circling above the water.  In addition to being a unique spot, the Grand Etang is easily accessible. Only a few minutes walk on a virtually flat path.

When walking towards the Plaine des Palmistes, the Grand Etang path is next to a rest area. The track slightly climmbs slightly upwards. It is not really tiring but be careful not to fall. The ground is covered by big stones and can be unstable. 10 minutes further along, the Grand Etang comes into sight. We stop off in rder to take a few photos. Another 5 minutes walk and we find ourselves on the banks of the lake, which we contourne to the right We are faced with an open view of the Bras d’Annette waterfalls deep down in the valley. Altough the water does not seem very attractive, it is possible to have a swim.   

Texts and photos : Laurène Mazier
February 2006

Access : from Saint-Benoit, take the RN 3 towards the Plaine des Palmistes. 7 km further on, on a bend bordered with plane trees, turn right towards the Grand Etang. The road snakes across sugar cane fields for 3 km before reaching a carpark and a large rest area.