Are you dreaming of spending an unforgettable family holiday? Reunion Island, an intense and heavenly island, is the ideal destination for you to get away from it all. Between white sand beaches, green mountains and an active volcano, the island offers you a multitude of activities for all tastes. But how can you best organise your stay? This complete guide will give you all the keys to a successful school holiday in Reunion Island.
From preparation to execution, we will guide you step by step in organizing your stay. You will discover the best times to go, the most family-friendly accommodation, the activities not to be missed and many other practical tips.
Why choose Reunion Island for your next family vacation? Because it is a destination that combines relaxation, discovery and adventure. You can swim in the turquoise lagoons, hike in the cirques, observe whales, or discover the Creole culture.
When to go to Reunion Island?
When should you go to fully enjoy your stay in Reunion? The answer will depend on your desires and the activities you want to do.
The intense island offers two main seasons:
| Season | Features | Preferred activities |
| Dry season (May to November) | Mild and sunny climate, little rain | Hiking, beaches, whale watching |
| Rainy season (December to April) | More precipitation, warmer temperatures |
Why choose the dry season? It is the ideal time to fully enjoy the beaches and hikes . Whales are also more easily observed between July and October.
What if you prefer warmer weather? The rainy season offers lush green landscapes and more abundant waterfalls. It’s also a more economical time to travel.
To summarize, the choice of period will depend on your priorities:
- Sun and outdoor activities: favor the dry season .
- Budget and green landscapes: opt for the rainy season .
Don’t forget to check the school calendar to plan your vacations around your children’s school holidays .
How does the school calendar in Reunion differ from those in Zones A, B or C in France?
The school calendar in Reunion is specially adapted to take into account the climatic conditions of the island, in particular the intense heat of the austral summer. Unlike the standard calendars followed in Zones A, B or C in mainland France, the academic calendar for Reunion is established according to specific guidelines set out in the French education code. This adjustment ensures that the school year is designed to meet local environmental needs, making it distinct from metropolitan areas.
School Holiday Dates for Réunion: 2025-2026 School Year
When planning around the academic calendar in Réunion, it is crucial to know the school holiday periods. Here is a detailed overview of the holiday periods for the 2025-2026 school year:
- Back to School: Classes begin on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.
- First Holidays: The first set of holidays begins after the end of school on Saturday, 11 October 2025. Students return to school on Monday, 27 October 2025.
- Summer Holidays: The Southern Summer Holidays begin at the end of the school day on Friday, 19 December 2025. Students return to school on Wednesday, 21 January 2026.
- Third vacation period: After a busy third period, students have a break starting on Saturday, February 28, 2026. Classes resume on Monday, March 16, 2026.
- Fourth vacation period: These vacations begin after classes on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with students returning on Monday, May 18, 2026.
- Winter Break: Finally, winter break is on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
This calendar allows students and their families to plan both studies and relaxation throughout the school year.
School Holiday Dates for La Réunion: 2024-2025 School Year
Are you wondering when to plan your trips or family outings to La Réunion for the next school year? Here is a complete overview of the school holiday calendar for 2024-2025.
Back to School
- Start Date : Classes begin on Monday, August 19, 2024.
First Break
- End : Classes end on Saturday, October 12, 2024.
- Resumption : School resumes on Monday, October 28, 2024.
Summer vacation (Austral summer)
- End : The last day of school before summer is Thursday, December 19, 2024.
- Resumption : Students return on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
Second break
- End : Classes end on Saturday, March 1, 2025.
- Resumption : School resumes on Monday, March 17, 2025.
Third break
- End : The last day before this break is Saturday, May 3, 2025.
- Resumption : Classes resume on Monday, May 19, 2025.
Winter vacation (Austral winter)
- Start : Holidays begin on Saturday 5th July 2025.
This calendar is a helpful guide to planning around school terms and ensuring you are prepared for each holiday period. Enjoy the vibrant culture and stunning scenery of Réunion during these breaks!
When are the austral summer holidays in Reunion in 2025-2026?
The austral summer holidays in Reunion for the period 2025-2026 begin on Friday, December 19, 2025. Classes are scheduled to resume on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. Enjoy an extended break of over a month to soak up the sun and explore the beauty of the island!
When are the holidays after the first period in Reunion for the 2025-2026 school year?
For the 2025-2026 school year, students in Reunion will begin their holidays after the first period on Saturday, October 11, 2025. Classes will resume on Monday, October 27, 2025. This break offers a well-deserved respite for both students and teachers, allowing them to recharge their batteries and prepare for the next academic period.
When are the holidays after the fourth term in Reunion for the 2024-2025 school year?
The holidays following the fourth period of the school year 2024-2025 in Reunion Island begins after the end of classes on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Students and teachers will return to school on Monday, May 19, 2025.
When are the holidays after the third trimester in Reunion Island for the 2024-2025 school year?
For the 2024-2025 school year, students in Reunion Island will enjoy a break after the third term starting with the end of classes on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Classes will resume on Monday, March 17, 2025, giving students two weeks of vacation to recharge before the start of the next term.
What are the dates of the austral summer vacation in Reunion Island for 2024-2025?
The austral summer vacation in Reunion Island for the 2024-2025 season begins with the end of classes on Thursday, December 19, 2024. Students will resume their studies when school starts on Tuesday, January 21 2025.
When are the holidays after the first period in La Réunion for the 2024-2025 school year?
For the 2024-2025 school year in La Réunion, the holidays after the first academic period begin at the end of classes on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Classes will resume on Monday, October 28, 2024, giving students and teachers a two-week break.
The school calendar for La Réunion is specifically adjusted to accommodate the intense heat of the austral summer. Unlike most regions in France, La Réunion follows certain adjustments according to educational regulations to maintain a conducive learning environment. While the general French zones—A, B, and C—may have a consistent calendar, Réunion deviates from this by scheduling breaks and school periods in a way that helps students and staff cope with the higher temperatures during the southern hemisphere summer months. This ensures that the school year is structured to avoid the period where heat could potentially disrupt learning and comfort.
Where to stay in Reunion?
Choosing the right accommodation is essential for a successful family holiday. Reunion Island offers a wide variety of accommodation for all budgets and tastes.
The different accommodation options:
| Type of accommodation | Benefits | Disadvantages |
| Hotels | Various services (swimming pool, catering), entertainment for children, comfort | Prices often higher |
| Gîtes | Family atmosphere, more independence, often well equipped | Fewer services than hotels |
| Vacation Rentals | Large capacity, often with private swimming pool | Fewer services, race management |
Exsel Hotels: Ideal for Families
Exsel hotels offer you an ideal setting for a family holiday. With their spacious rooms , swimming pools and children’s clubs , they will delight young and old alike. In addition, their proximity to beaches and activities will allow you to fully enjoy your stay in Reunion.
Why choose an Exsel hotel?
- Comfort and well-being: Spacious and equipped rooms for the whole family.
- Entertainment for children: Children’s clubs organize fun and educational activities.
- Various services: Swimming pool, restaurant, bar, etc.
- Proximity to beaches and activities: Enjoy the best of Reunion Island.
Don’t wait any longer to book your stay in one of our Exsel hotels and take advantage of special offers for school holidays.
Tips for choosing your accommodation
- Set your budget.
- Choose a strategic location.
- Consider your family’s needs. (Number of bedrooms, baby equipment, etc.)
- Book in advance , especially during school holiday periods.
What to do in Reunion with the family?
Reunion Island is a real playground for young and old! The island offers a multitude of activities to satisfy all desires.
Nature lovers will be delighted. Imagine hiking in the cirques , these immense green calderas, or watching whales from a boat. The more adventurous can even try climbing the volcano .
For beach lovers , Reunion Island has many turquoise lagoons where you can swim in complete safety. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also on the program to discover the riches of the seabed.
If you want to experience Creole culture , visit local markets , taste culinary specialties and attend sega shows.
Children will not be left out. Many amusement parks , zoos and educational farms are available to them.
To help you choose the activities best suited to your family, here are some ideas classified by theme:
| Theme | Activities |
| Nature | Hiking, waterfalls, volcano, whale watching |
| Nautical | Beach, snorkeling, scuba diving |
| Culture | Museums, Creole villages, market |
| Children | Amusement parks, zoos, educational farms |
In summary, Reunion Island offers an incredibly varied range of activities for the whole family. Whether you are more into sports, culture or simply looking for relaxation, you will definitely find what you are looking for.
School Holiday Dates for La Réunion (2024-2025)
Planning the year for families in La Réunion is essential, especially when it comes to school holidays. The school calendar for the 2024-2025 academic year is carefully established, making it easier to organize family time or travel projects.
Back to School
- Start date: Monday, September 2, 2024
All Saints’ Holiday
- End of classes: Saturday, October 19, 2024
- Return to school: Monday, November 4, 2024
Christmas Holidays
- End of classes: Saturday, December 21, 2024
- Return to school: Monday, January 6, 2025
Winter Holidays
- End of classes: Saturday, February 22, 2025
- Return to school: Monday, March 10, 2025
Spring Holidays
- End of classes: Saturday, April 19, 2025
- Return to school: Monday, May 5, 2025
Ascension Bridge
- End of classes: Wednesday, May 28, 2025
- Return to school: Monday, June 2, 2025
Summer Holidays
- End of classes: Saturday, July 5, 2025
With this calendar, parents and students can plan vacations, activities, and moments of relaxation throughout the year. Make the most of each break!
Spring Break Dates 2025 for Zone A
If you are planning your spring break for 2025 in advance, here’s what you need to know about the vacation schedule for Zone A:
- Last day of school: Classes will end on Saturday, April 19, 2025.
- Return to school: Students will resume classes on Monday, May 5, 2025.
This two-week break offers a great opportunity for a refreshing getaway or fun family time at home. Plan your activities accordingly.
A dream vacation at a low price
Are you dreaming of a heavenly holiday without breaking the bank? Exsel hotels offer you all-inclusive stays at very attractive prices. Enjoy comfortable rooms, tasty meals and entertainment for the whole family. Don’t wait any longer to book your stay and treat yourself to an unforgettable holiday in Reunion Island.
