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Reunion Island

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

This trail is neither too short nor too long. The path is not too steep but what a climb! Between Bras Sec and Palmiste Rouge, the trail goes down trough the Bras des Calumets gorges. Half-way along, a clear water bassin tempts one to relax. All along the path, impressive remparts rise up. On the top, the birds twittter mockingly.

The Sentier des Calumets links the small village of Bras Sec to Palmiste Rouge. You ought to leave your car in Cilaos and take the bus to the departure point of the hike, after Bras-Sec. For the timetable call 02.62. 31.71.71. Cost : 1€. Ask the driver to drop you off.

The hike starts with a strange hill called Bonnet de Prêtre. Strange and difficult to climb. No sooner the hike starts than you need to climb uphill for a kilmotre before reaching the Plateau de Mare. It used to be inhabited but today it is home to oak trees hidden among pines and casuarinas.

A bit further, the track which is scattered with tree trunks and rocks sometimes full of moss, goes down through a forest of casuarinas. We walk along and sometimes cross a dried-up ravine.

On the path, lies a lovely clear water « bassin ». A very small waterfall and flat rocks. The perfect place to have a break. Once out of the forest, the views become less interesting.

Imposing rockfaces rise around us. Birdsongs echo from above.

After having walked for half an hour , the first houses of Palmiste Rouge become visible. This remote « ilet » consists of lovely flowery « cases ». The bus heading for Cilaos stops off at the end of the path. Those who still have energy can go back up the Sentier des Calumets, by foot.

Access : une fois arrivé à Cilaos, prendre la direction de Bras Sec. A la sortie du village, dans une courbe le départ du sentier est indiqué à gauche « Bonnet de prêtre » et Palmiste Rouge. Nous vous conseillons de laissez votre voiture à Cilaos et de prendre un bus qui vous conduira au départ de la randonnée. Horaires au 02.62. 31.71.71, tarif : 1€.

Text and photos : Laurène Mazier
February 2006