The west of Réunion is bursting with activities and breathtaking scenery. To get 2025 off on the right foot, here is a selection of not-to-be-missed activities in this vibrant and beautiful region.
Must-sees in the West
1. Admire the sunrise over le Maïdo
Start your year at the summit of Le Maïdo, which rises to an altitude of 2,190 metres and offers one of the finest views on Réunion. Accessible by 4X4 followed by a short walk, you’ll be at the top of Réunion Island with a view of the Cirque de Mafate. Arrive early, before sunrise, to take in the magnificent spectacle of the first light as it sublimates the landscape.
Don’t stop at the Cirque de Mafate, visit the island’s other two Cirques. The Cirque de Salazie and the Cirque de Cilaos. If you would like to find out more, read our article on the Cirques of Réunion.
2. A relaxing day on the Hermitage beaches
Fancy a lazy day? Head to the Hermitage beaches for a day under the filaos. Swimming in the lagoon, picnicking or just reading on the warm sand – the choice is yours! Don’t forget to bring your mask and snorkel to watch the fish in the lagoon.
To extend this moment of relaxation, choose to stay at one of the nearby Exsel hotels. The Exsel Alamanda hotel, nestling just a stone’s throw from the beach and the casino in Saint-Gilles, offers a warm and friendly setting ideal for families or couples, with its Le Grain de Sable restaurant catering for all tastes. If you prefer a cocooning stay, the Exsel Ermitage hotel offers a refined setting with comfortable rooms and access just a stone’s throw from the Hermitage beach. Two perfect options for making the most of the charms of the west coast.
Check out our article on relaxing days out if you’re stuck for ideas!
3. Try your hand at water sports
The West is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Transparent kayaking, jet skiing, paddle boarding or scuba diving, there’s something for everyone. Why not try a dolphin- or whale-watching boat trip with Le Grand Bleu ? (depending on the season).
4. Explore the Garden of Eden
This haven of peace at L’Ermitage is ideal for a family outing. The Garden of Eden is home to an impressive variety of tropical plants and offers a soothing setting to start the year in harmony with nature. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to plants.
5. Discover trail running in the West of France
With its varied terrain, the West of France is a land of adventure for trail enthusiasts. Start with accessible trails like those at Saint-Gilles-les-Hauts or Les Makes. A great way to get back into shape after the festive season! There’s something for everyone, from beginners to experts. Réunion’s trails are waiting for you! And to help you out, check out our articles on hiking in Réunion.
6. Taste the local flavours
Start 2025 by celebrating Réunion’s gastronomy. Take a trip to the Saint-Paul market to discover exotic fruits, typical dishes and local delicacies every Saturday or Sunday morning on Saint-Paul’s seafront. It’s the perfect opportunity to fill up on flavours and energy. Alternatively, take a look at the restaurants on Réunion Island, where you’re sure to be delighted with our special offers!
If you’re feeling festive, check out the best bars for a drink in Réunion.
7. Recharge your batteries on horseback
For a moment of total relaxation, book a horse ride in the Hauts de l’Ouest. Between lush green forests and panoramic views, this activity promises unforgettable memories. It’s ideal for friends, family or couples, or even for solo riders who just want to enjoy a ride in complete solitude (accompanied by their horse, of course).
8. Sleep under the stars
How about starting the year by sleeping under the stars? Opt for Camping Ermitage, where the mild summer nights and clear skies offer a unique experience. All this with direct access to the Hermitage beach and absolute proximity to supermarkets, restaurants and attractions such as the Casino de Saint-Gilles, nightclubs and all the activities of Saint-Gilles.
Western Réunion invites you to experience a wealth of emotions and discoveries. So, are you ready to start 2025 in the best possible way?
Discover the towns of the west
Le Port, the maritime town
Often perceived as an industrial town, Le Port is in fact full of surprises. Not only is it home to Réunion’s main seaport, it also boasts a thriving arts scene. Don’t miss the street art exhibitions that adorn the town’s walls and the cultural events that regularly enliven its urban spaces. Why not plan a boat trip early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the sunset?
La Possession, gateway to the heights
This charming commune, situated between the coast and the heights, is the perfect starting point for exploring sites such as the Roche Écrite or the path leading to the cirque of Mafate. La Possession also offers spectacular views over the ocean from its hilltop paths. An ideal town if you want to get into hiking.
The authentic Saint-Paul
A historic and cultural town, Saint-Paul is a real journey into Réunion’s past. Don’t miss its famous seafront market, where the colours, scents and local atmosphere are a delight to all visitors. It’s also the ideal starting point for exploring the marine cemetery, the heights of Saint-Paul with the Cirque de Mafate and Le Maïdo offering unique panoramic views.
Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, the seaside resort
The festive capital of the West, Saint-Gilles-les-Bains is the ideal place for beach and nightlife lovers. Between the marina, the many restaurants and the lively bars, the town promises moments of relaxation and pleasure. Don’t forget to visit the aquarium to immerse yourself in the island’s marine life, or take a boat trip to see the whales.
L’Ermitage, between nature and serenity
This peaceful district of Saint-Gilles is renowned for its crystal-clear lagoon protected by a coral reef. It’s the perfect place to recharge your batteries away from the hustle and bustle. A walk along the beach at sunset is a must for a great start to the new year. It’s a very popular spot on Réunion Island, and impossible to miss.
Saint-Leu, culture and thrills
Saint-Leu is a real treasure trove for sports and culture fans. Discover the Stella Matutina museum or the Salt museum to immerse yourself in the island’s history. Try your hand at paragliding and admire the coastline from the air. And for surfing fans, enjoy the legendary waves of the bay.
Now you know all about the activities and towns in the West. But what do you know about accommodation?
Exsel Hôtels offers you two establishments in the west of Réunion Island, in Saint-Gilles. These two hotels offer immediate proximity to the Hermitage beach, the shopping area with the supermarket, the fairground, the boutiques and bakeries and the attractions of Saint-Gilles. You’ll be close to the Casino, the most famous nightclubs and above all the activities of the west. So what are you waiting for?
Choose a Saint-Gilles hotel:
The hotel is right in the heart of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains and just a short stroll from the Hermitage beach.
It has 70 cosy rooms, a refreshing swimming pool and a restaurant ‘Le Grain de Sable’, which is open to hotel guests and outside customers from 7am to 11pm, 7 days a week.
The hotel is ideally located right next to Hermitage beach and a shopping area. This cosy hotel with 37 rooms will provide you with relaxation in a refined setting.
Discover the Le Kaloupilé bar with its mouth-watering snacks and delicious cocktails and relax by the pool.
For a beautiful conclusion
The west of Réunion, with its varied landscapes, emotionally-charged activities and authentic towns, is an invitation to escape and renew. Whether you’re looking for serenity, thrills or cultural discoveries, this region will meet all your expectations.
Starting 2025 in the West of France is like taking an enchanted break where nature, conviviality and well-being meet. So let yourself be seduced by the unique charm of this corner of paradise, and enjoy an unforgettable year as you discover the treasures of the wonderful island of Réunion.
