The natural treasures of Réunion
Réunion’s cirques are the very soul of the island. Cilaos and Salazie are shaped like a three-leaf clover around the Piton des Neiges massif. These three immense, deep depressions were created by the collapse of the volcano, now dormant (but not extinct), and the ceaseless work of erosion. With their wild character, grandiose landscapes, isolated villages and preserved traditions, they offer a unique experience for those wishing to get off the beaten track. Marked by their isolation, and sometimes their inaccessibility, the cirques offer a feeling of total disconnection. Going there means discovering unspoilt nature and immersing yourself in the very identity of Réunion.
With Exsel Hôtels, discover these natural gems and plunge into the beating heart of Réunion.
The Cirque de Mafate: pure adventure
Accessible only on foot or by helicopter, Mafate is the westernmost cirque and a haven for hikers in search of escape. Mafate was once a refuge for runaway slaves. Made up of several islets, the Mafate cirque perpetuates Réunionese traditions. The result is villages that are far from the hustle and bustle of modern life, particularly authentic and timeless. The largest of these, La Nouvelle, has a school and a grocery shop, supplied by air. Here, marked trails are everywhere and nature is king!
The winding paths of Mafate cross deep ravines, tropical forests and reveal breathtaking panoramas. Silence reigns supreme, punctuated only by the song of endemic birds and the murmur of waterfalls. It’s a return to your roots, where you’ll discover islets preserved from the ravages of time, inhabited by warm and welcoming Mafatais. Come and recharge your batteries in the heart of nature in this unique place, a veritable sanctuary of tranquillity.
Access points :
Departure from La Rivière des Galets: Accessible by 4×4, then hike to the îlet des Lataniers to begin your immersion in the cirque.
From Col des Bœufs: This trail provides easy access to the islets of La Nouvelle or Marla, perfect for a first discovery.
Route ideas :
One-day hike: Col des Bœufs > La Nouvelle > return (6 to 7 hours’ walk there and back).
2-day tour with overnight accommodation: Col des Bœufs > La Nouvelle > Marla > return. Perfect for trekking enthusiasts, with an overnight stay in a gîte in La Nouvelle to enjoy the sunset.
Exsel Hôtels tips: Before setting off, check the weather forecast and be well prepared, as conditions can change rapidly.
The Cirque de Salazie: a green and fresh setting
Salazie, the most easterly and greenest of the three cirques. Characterised by its very humid climate, it is one of the rainiest places on the planet. In fact, it rains very often and in large quantities! But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t benefit from majestic natural beauty, punctuated by a symphony of waterfalls and lush vegetation. Its famous waterfalls, such as the Voile de la Mariée, are spectacular after the rains. The cirque is easily accessible by car, making it the ideal place to immerse yourself in nature without too much preparation.
Although the population of the Salazie cirque is fairly scattered, the main tourist attractions are located near the village of Hell-Bourg. The starting point for many hikes, it also offers a superb view of the Piton des Neiges. Its colourful houses and local cuisine, in which chouchou is a speciality, make for an authentic gourmet break. A stopover in Hell-Bourg, listed as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’ since 1998, will immerse you in Creole history and charm.
Access points :
Route de Salazie: Accessible by car, the road winds between fern-covered cliffs, offering sublime views, including of the famous Voile de la Mariée waterfall.
Route ideas :
Discovery day by car: Stop off at Hell-Bourg, visit its Creole houses and explore the remains of the old thermal baths.
Hike to the falls: From Hell-Bourg, follow the trail to the Trois Cascades, an easy hike of around 2 hours to admire the falls in the heart of nature.
Exsel Hôtels tips: Enjoy the local cuisine and try the famous locally-grown chouchou.
The Cirque de Cilaos: a thermal and sporting adventure
The Cirque de Cilaos is the southernmost cirque on the island. It enjoys a temperate climate and lies at an altitude of around 1700m. Its vegetation is reminiscent of European summits, with many conifers. The village of Cilaos, with its thermal baths and steep footpaths, is a magnet for sports and relaxation enthusiasts. Surrounded by steep mountains, this cirque is a paradise for hiking, climbing and canyoning enthusiasts. However, Cilaos is best known for its handicrafts, particularly embroidery, and for its wine, which is unique on the island, as well as its lentils. Above all, it’s its picturesque character and isolation that make it so famous. To get there, you’ll need to be patient… The village of Cilaos can only be reached by ‘la route aux 400 virages’! The road is an adventure in itself, offering spectacular views at every turn. From the coast, allow around 1? hours for the journey. You will then reach the small village of Cilaos, absolutely charming and renowned for its lentils.
From Cilaos, there are a number of hiking trails, including one to the summit of Piton de la Fournaise!
After a day’s exploring, there’s nothing better than relaxing in the town’s thermal springs and sampling the local specialities.
Access points :
Route aux 400 virages: For fans of panoramic driving, this legendary road takes you to Cilaos through breathtaking scenery.
Route ideas :
Piton des Neiges hike: Depart from the Bloc in Cilaos for a climb of around 6 hours to the summit, with an overnight stay in a refuge for an unforgettable sunrise (difficult level).
Spa break: Enjoy a relaxing break at the Cilaos spa, perfect for travellers looking to combine adventure and relaxation.
Exsel Hotels tips: If you want to extend your stay and explore further, our hotels offer comfortable rooms for a well-deserved rest after your adventures.
Plan your stay with Exsel Hôtels
Whether you’re an avid hiker, a lover of culture or simply looking for a change of scenery, the cirques of Réunion Island offer an unforgettable experience. Reunion’s lush natural environment and exceptional flora and fauna make it an area of unrivalled beauty. In fact, 42% of Réunion is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Exsel Hôtels offers comfortable, authentic accommodation to help you unwind after your adventures. We welcome you to our establishments close to access points to the cirques and offer advice on organising your excursions.
So, are you ready to explore Réunion’s hidden treasures?
Exsel Hôtels is your ideal base for exploring Réunion’s natural treasures. Our establishments offer optimum comfort and a warm welcome to get your adventures off to a good start.
Exsel Créolia: the choice of comfort in a 4-star hotel in Saint-Denis
To explore Salazie
Located in Saint-Denis, the Exsel Créolia is an excellent base for excursions to the Cirque de Salazie, just an hour’s drive away. Its elegant atmosphere and modern facilities make it a perfect option for those wishing to combine comfort and discovery.
Features :
- Rooms with panoramic ocean or mountain views
- 500 m² infinity pool with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and Saint-Denis
- The Kaloupilé’ restaurant serving local dishes to immerse you in the Reunionese atmosphere from the moment you arrive
- Espace Créolia Wellness for pampering and relaxation on your return home
Exsel Alamanda: a friendly atmosphere for a stay in the heart of Saint-Gilles les Bains
To discover Cilaos and Mafate
Located on the west coast in Saint-Gilles, Exsel Alamanda is ideal for adventurers wishing to explore the Cirques de Mafate and Cilaos, while enjoying the beaches at the end of the day. Less than two hours from the trailheads, it’s the ideal place to combine hiking with seaside relaxation.
Benefits :
- A friendly atmosphere, perfect for families and groups of friends.
- Quick access to trails and roads leading to Cilaos and Mafate.
- A pool area to relax in after a day’s exploring.
- The ‘Grain de Sable’ restaurant, with its simple cuisine, warm service and friendly atmosphere, surrounded by a tropical garden.
Exsel Victoria: the perfect compromise between sea and mountains
Easy access to the three cirques
Le Victoria is located in the south-west of the island, in Saint-Pierre, a central location that provides access to the three cirques while enjoying the lively atmosphere of this coastal town. Ideal for a well-balanced stay, it is close to the trailheads and offers all the comforts needed by active travellers.
Benefits :
- Strategic location for easy access to all the cirques by car.
- Comfortable air-conditioned rooms, perfect for a well-deserved rest.
- Hearty breakfast to get your day of exploring off to a good start.
- The ‘Rivage’ restaurant offers a range of flavours that are well worth the diversions, just like its dishes which feature local produce.
Exsel Hôtels: partners in your Réunionese adventures
Looking for authenticity, comfort or relaxation? Exsel Hôtels offers options to suit every style of traveller. Our establishments offer a warm welcome, and our team is on hand to advise you on walking tours and must-see visits in the cirques.
