Want to escape the routine and live a unique experience? Reunion, a volcanic island in the heart of the Indian Ocean, offers you an exceptional setting for an unforgettable vacation. Between black sand beaches, green mountains and Creole culture, the intense island is full of surprises. But where to stay to fully enjoy all this wealth? This article offers you a selection of hotels to spend an unforgettable summer in Reunion.
The essentials of Reunion Island
Reunion, the jewel of the Indian Ocean, is a destination that will not fail to seduce you with the diversity of its landscapes and the richness of its culture. From its black sand beaches to the peaks of its volcanoes, through its lush tropical forests, the intense island offers a multitude of unforgettable experiences.
Dream beaches in the heart of the Indian Ocean
The beaches of Reunion Island are a true paradise for lovers of relaxation and water sports. The black volcanic sands contrast with the turquoise water of the lagoon, creating breathtaking landscapes. Among the most popular beaches, we can mention:
- Étang-Salé: Ideal for surfing and scuba diving, this beach is renowned for its powerful waves.
- Boucan Canot: More family-friendly, this beach offers a breathtaking view of the rock of the same name and is perfect for relaxing.
- Saint-Gilles-les-Bains: This lively seaside resort offers a wide range of water and land activities.
Unforgettable adventures in the heart of nature
Nature lovers will be delighted in Reunion. The island is home to many volcanoes , including the Piton de la Fournaise , one of the most active in the world. Hiking trails are numerous and varied, offering exceptional panoramas of the island.
Other must-do activities include:
- Scuba diving: Discover the seabed rich in flora and fauna.
- Whale watching: Between July and October, you can observe these magnificent cetaceans off the coast of the island.
- Canyoning: Descending rivers by abseiling, a unique experience for thrill seekers.
A mixed culture with unique flavors
Reunion Island is a true cultural melting pot, where African, Indian, European and Chinese influences mingle. This richness is reflected in the local gastronomy . Curries , spicy stews, sausage rougail and stuffed bringelles are all specialties to discover.
Reunion Island is also an opportunity to discover ancestral traditions, to dance the sega and to soak up the festive atmosphere of the island.
Criteria for choosing a hotel in Reunion
To fully enjoy your stay in Reunion, choosing a hotel is a crucial step. Several criteria must be taken into account to find the establishment that best meets your expectations:
Location: in the heart of the action or in a quiet area?
Reunion Island offers a great diversity of landscapes. Depending on your desires, you can choose a hotel:
- By the sea: For beach and water sports lovers, hotels located on the coast are ideal.
- In the mountains: If you prefer hiking and nature, mountain hotels will offer you exceptional panoramas.
- In town: For those who want to be in the heart of the action, hotels located in major cities like Saint-Denis or Saint-Pierre are a good option.
Comfort and services: the little extras that make the difference
The comfort of your accommodation is essential for a successful vacation. Choose hotels offering:
- A swimming pool: To refresh yourself and relax after a day of excursion.
- A spa: To offer you moments of pure relaxation with relaxing treatments.
- A restaurant: To taste local flavors without having to leave the hotel.
- Internet access: To stay connected and share your best photos.
Budget: for all budgets
Reunion Island offers a wide range of hotels, from luxury establishments to more economical accommodation. Adapt your choice to your budget while keeping in mind that the value for money is often excellent on the island.
Environment: responsible tourism
More and more travelers are sensitive to environmental issues. Choose hotels that are committed to sustainable development and that are implementing actions to reduce their impact on the environment.
By taking these different criteria into account, you will be able to find the ideal hotel for your stay in Reunion .
Selection of hotels for all tastes
Reunion Island offers a wide variety of accommodation to suit all tastes. Here is a selection of hotels to help you find the one that best suits your stay.
Luxury hotels:
For those seeking comfort and elegance, the luxury hotels of Reunion Island offer high-end services. You can enjoy state-of-the-art spas, gourmet restaurants and personalized service.
- Exsel Créolia : Located in Saint-Denis, this hotel combines modernity and Creole tradition. It offers spacious and elegant rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and a gourmet restaurant.
Charming hotels:
If you prefer authenticity and intimacy, charming hotels will seduce you. These establishments, often on a human scale, offer a warm and friendly setting.
- L’Ermitage Boutik-Hôtel : Nestled in the heart of a tropical garden, this hotel offers personalized rooms and an intimate atmosphere. You will be able to enjoy the calm and serenity of the place.
Unusual accommodation:
For a unique experience, treat yourself to unusual accommodation in Reunion Island.
- Exsel Le Roseaux des Sables : This hotel offers overwater bungalows with stunning views of the lagoon. You can fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up to the sound of birdsong.
Family hotels:
For a successful family vacation, choose a child-friendly hotel.
- Exsel Victoria : This hotel has a kids club, swimming pool and play area to keep the little ones entertained and allow parents to relax.
Hotels for lovers:
For a romantic getaway, choose a hotel offering an intimate atmosphere and high-end services.
- Exsel Austral : Located on the seafront, this hotel offers spacious suites with ocean views. You can enjoy special moments with your loved one.
- Floralys : Nestled in the heart of a tropical garden, this hotel offers a romantic and intimate atmosphere. You can relax in the spa or stroll hand in hand along the flower-lined paths.
This selection is just a glimpse of the hotel offerings in Reunion Island. Many other establishments are likely to appeal to you. Don’t hesitate to consult the hotels’ websites or ask a travel agent for advice to find the ideal accommodation.
In the following part, we will give you some practical tips for
Practical advice for organizing your stay
To make your stay in Reunion a success, here are some practical tips:
When to go?
Reunion Island enjoys a tropical climate, but temperatures vary depending on altitude.
- Dry season (May to November): This is the ideal time to enjoy the beaches and hiking. The climate is dry and sunny.
- Rainy season (December to April): The landscapes are greener, but hiking can be more difficult due to muddy trails.
How to get there?
Several airlines serve Reunion Island from mainland France and other Indian Ocean islands. You can also opt for a flight with a stopover.
Administrative formalities
For French nationals, a valid identity card is sufficient. For other nationalities, inquire at your embassy or consulate.
Budget
The cost of a stay in Reunion varies depending on the time of year, the type of accommodation chosen and the activities practiced.
- Accommodation: Prices vary depending on the standard of the hotel.
- Food: Food is affordable, especially in Creole restaurants.
- Activities: Water activities and excursions can add extra budget.
To give you an idea, plan on an average budget of around €150 per day per person.
Additional Tips
- Car Rental: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the island at your own pace.
- Travel insurance: Take out travel insurance to cover medical expenses and repatriation.
- Bring light, comfortable clothing, rain gear and hiking shoes.
- Don’t forget your sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- Respect the environment: Reunion is a fragile island, let’s protect it!
By following these tips, you can plan a stay in Reunion with complete peace of mind and take full advantage of all the riches of this exceptional island.
Activities and experiences not to be missed
Reunion Island is an island full of activities for all tastes. Here are some ideas to help you organize your stay:
Nature and hiking
- Piton de la Fournaise: Climb one of the most active volcanoes in the world to admire lunar landscapes.
- The Cirque de Cilaos: Discover this natural cirque, a true haven of peace, by taking the many hiking trails.
- Le Maïdo: Enjoy a panoramic view of the Mafate cirque from this belvedere.
Beach and relaxation
- Boucan Canot: Relax on this black sand beach and enjoy the many water activities on offer.
- Étang-Salé: Surf the powerful waves of this beach renowned among surfers.
- Saint-Gilles-les-Bains: Stroll along the seafront and discover the shops and restaurants of this lively seaside resort.
Culture and heritage
- Saint-Denis: Visit the Léon Dierx museum, the State garden and the cathedral.
- Saint-Pierre: Discover the history of this city rebuilt after the 1902 eruption.
- Markets: Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere by visiting the markets of Saint-Paul or Saint-Pierre.
gastronomy
- Tasting of local products: Exotic fruits, spices, arranged rums… The flavors of Reunion Island will seduce you.
- Creole cuisine: Taste curries, rougails and other local specialties.
- Food trucks: An original way to discover Reunion Island street food.
Other activities
- Whale watching: Between July and October, head out to sea to observe these magnificent marine mammals.
- Canyoning: Descend rivers by rappelling for an experience rich in sensations.
- Helicopter: Fly over the island to admire the landscapes from the air.
Reunion Island is an island that never ceases to surprise. Let yourself be tempted by all the activities it offers and create unforgettable memories.
Would you like more information on a particular activity? Do not hesitate to contact me.
Additional tips for a successful stay
To make your stay in Reunion Island perfect, here are some additional tips:
Local markets
Don’t miss visiting the local markets to discover local products: exotic fruits, spices, crafts… You can taste local specialties and meet the producers.
Traditional festivals
If you are lucky enough to coincide your stay with a traditional festival, don’t miss it! You will be able to discover the customs and traditions of the island.
Sustainable tourism
Reunion Island is a fragile island. Choose environmentally friendly activities and accommodation.
Public transport
If you do not want to rent a car, it is possible to travel by bus. The public transport network is well developed, especially in tourist areas.
Mobile applications
There are many mobile applications that can be useful to you during your stay:
- Maps and hiking guides: To explore the island safely.
- Translation: To facilitate communication with locals.
- Practical information: Bus timetables, emergency numbers…
Local travel agencies
Do not hesitate to contact a local travel agency to organize your excursions and discover the lesser-known places on the island.
Languages spoken
The official language of Reunion is French. However, Creole is widely spoken.
The climate
The climate of Reunion Island is tropical, with a rainy season from November to April and a dry season from May to October. Bring light and comfortable clothing, as well as rain gear and hiking shoes.
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