Fancy a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? The Mercure trail offers you the opportunity to recharge your batteries in the heart of Reunion Island’s nature. Starting from the Créolia hotel , this route will take you through varied and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a beginner, this hike is for anyone looking for thrills and discoveries.
Do you want to explore the Mercure trail , one of the most emblematic of Reunion Island? This article is for you! We offer you a complete guide to prepare your hike from the Créolia hotel. From essential equipment to viewpoints not to be missed, including practical advice, you will find all the information you need for a successful excursion.
Preparing for the hike
When to explore the Mercury trail?
The Mercury trail is suitable for hiking all year round. However, the dry months of Reunion Island are generally preferred to avoid heavy rain and muddy trails. These periods also offer milder temperatures, ideal for hiking in the great outdoors.
Essential equipment
To fully enjoy your hike on the Mercure trail, it is essential to equip yourself properly. Here is a non-exhaustive list of the equipment to take:
- Hiking shoes: Choose sturdy, waterproof shoes that are suitable for rough terrain.
- Technical clothing: Choose lightweight, breathable and quick-drying clothing. Plan for a waterproof and fleece jacket depending on the weather.
- Backpack: Choose a comfortable backpack that is suitable for the duration of your hike.
- Water: Bring enough water for the duration of the excursion.
- Food: Pack energy snacks for breaks.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential to protect yourself from UV rays.
- First Aid Kit: Prevention is better than cure.
- Map and compass: Although the trail is marked, it is always useful to have a map and compass.
- Cell phone: For emergencies, but remember that network coverage may be limited in some areas.
Physical condition required
The Mercure trail has a significant difference in altitude and requires good physical condition. It is recommended to practice a regular sporting activity before embarking on this hike.
Administrative formalities
For the moment, no particular administrative formalities are required to take the Mercure trail. However, it is always advisable to inquire at the tourist office or the Créolia hotel before your departure.
In summary, good preparation is the key to a successful hike on the Mercury Trail. By following these tips, you will be able to fully enjoy this magnificent route.
Detailed itinerary: from the Créolia hotel to Brûlé
Departure from the Créolia hotel
The Mercure trail starts near the Créolia Hotel , an establishment renowned for its warm welcome and privileged location. To reach the start of the trail, simply follow the signs from the reception.
Description of the course
- Part One: Ascent in the Forest The beginning of the trail enters a dense and humid forest. The climb is gradual, offering beautiful views of the valley below. The first few meters are shaded, which helps keep you cool. The vegetation is lush, with a great diversity of ferns, mosses and endemic trees.
- Part 2: Crossing the Butor ravine After about an hour’s walk, you will reach the Butor ravine. This part of the route is particularly appreciated for the beauty of its landscapes. The path runs along the ravine, offering striking views of the rock faces and riverside vegetation.
- Part 3: Arrival at Brûlé The last part of the trail leads to Brûlé, a high plateau offering an exceptional panorama of the west coast of the island. The landscape is marked by ancient lava flows and sparser vegetation. Brûlé is an ideal place to picnic and enjoy the calm of nature.
Additional Tips
- Estimated walking time: Allow approximately [number] hours to complete the entire trail, depending on your pace and breaks.
- Water points: There are no water points on the course. Remember to bring enough water.
- Markings: The trail is well marked, but it is advisable to pay particular attention to intersections.
Highlights of the hike: An immersion in the nature of Reunion Island
The Mercure trail is a real invitation to discover Reunion Island’s biodiversity.
Fauna and flora
Along the route, you will be able to observe a rich and varied fauna and flora. Among the endemic species, we find:
- Birds: The tec-tec, the white zoizo, the papangue… These birds with melodious songs populate the forests and ravines.
- Reptiles: The green gecko, the highland lizard… These small, discreet reptiles hide in the crevices of the rocks.
- Flora: Tree ferns, colored woods, orchids… The vegetation is lush and offers a breathtaking spectacle.
The points of view
The Mercure trail offers multiple panoramic viewpoints of the West Coast, cirques and pitons. The panoramas are breathtaking and allow you to appreciate the wild beauty of the island.
- Le Brûlé: This high plateau offers a clear view of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding mountains.
- The Butor ravine: Crossing this ravine offers striking views of the rock faces and riverside vegetation.
Historical and cultural interest
Although the Mercure Trail is mainly appreciated for its natural aspects, it also contains some traces of past human occupation. Archaeological remains testify to the presence of ancient populations on the island.
In summary, the Mercure trail is a hike that will delight nature lovers and the curious. Between fauna, flora, breathtaking landscapes and history, this hike offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Practical advice: for a safe hike
Precautions to take
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before you leave and avoid hiking in stormy weather.
- Terrain: The trail can be slippery in wet weather. Adjust your speed and be careful, especially when crossing ravines.
- Wildlife: Although animal encounters are rare, it is advisable to remain vigilant and not disturb wildlife.
Respect for the environment
- Pick up your trash: Bring a trash bag to take out all your trash.
- Stay on marked trails: To preserve nature, avoid leaving the trails.
- Do not pick the plants: Many species are protected.
Where to eat and stay
- Le Brûlé: You will find a few small shops at Le Brûlé where you can buy drinks and snacks.
- Accommodation: If you wish to extend your stay, several lodges and guest houses are available in the surrounding area.
Route variations
- Shorten the route: If you are short on time or not very fit, you can shorten the route by turning back after the Butor ravine.
- Extend the route: For more experienced hikers, it is possible to extend the hike by joining other trails.
In summary, the Mercure trail is a hike accessible to all, provided you are well prepared and follow a few simple rules. By following these tips, you will be able to fully enjoy this magnificent experience.
Sentier Mercure: an unforgettable experience to be enjoyed from the Exsel Créolia hotel
The Mercure Trail, with its varied landscapes, exceptional biodiversity and breathtaking viewpoints, is a must-do hike for all nature lovers. Starting from the Exsel Créolia Hotel , you benefit from an ideal starting point to explore this magnificent trail.
This establishment, renowned for its warm welcome and quality services, offers you all the comfort you need to prepare for your hike. After a day of walking, you can relax in the swimming pool, enjoy a delicious meal at the restaurant or simply rest on your terrace.
The Exsel Créolia hotel is much more than just accommodation, it is a true haven of peace where you can recharge your batteries and reconnect with nature.
In short, the Mercure trail and the Exsel Créolia hotel form a winning duo for an unforgettable getaway to Reunion Island. Don’t hesitate any longer and come and discover the riches of this magnificent island!
To extend your adventure, many other hiking trails are accessible from the Exsel Créolia hotel. Do not hesitate to ask at reception to discover the routes best suited to your desires and your level.
Additional tips:
- Book in advance: The Exsel Créolia hotel is very popular, remember to book your stay in advance , especially in high season.
- Light pack: Choose a lightweight backpack to make your hike easier.
- Respect nature: Every action counts to preserve this fragile environment.
In conclusion, the Mercure trail and the Exsel Créolia hotel offer you a unique and unforgettable experience. So, don’t wait any longer and come and discover the wonders of Reunion Island!
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