Tropical landscape in Grand Etang at Saint-Benoît, Reunion Island

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The East

The east coast is everything the west coast is not: low-key, unpretentious and luxuriant (yes, it does get much more rain). While this coast lacks the beaches of the west, the region makes up for it with spectacular waterfalls and fantastic picnic spots. The main produce of the area is sugar cane, but the region is also known for its vanilla plantations and fruit orchards.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Bassin Boeuf
The East
If you need to cool off, the Bassin Boeuf waterfall beckons with its enticing natural pools fringed with stone slabs, ideal for picnicking and sunbathing…
Bassin La Paix & Bassin La Mer
The East
A blissful site is Bassin La Paix, in the Rivière des Roches valley, about 2.5km west from Bras-Panon (it's signposted). From the car park, a path quickly…
Sucrerie de Bois-Rouge
The East
This sugar refinery is on the coast 3km north of St-André. During the cane harvest (July to early December) visitors are shown around the huge, high-tech…
Îlet Bethléem
The East
Very few visitors have heard about Îlet Bethléem, a magical spot by the Rivière des Marsouins that locals would like to keep for themselves. Reached after…
Forêt Ste-Marguerite
The East
For a complete change of pace and atmosphere, consider spending some time in the protected 159-hectare Forêt Ste-Marguerite, way up in the hills. Fans of…
Belvédère de l’Eden
The East
A fabulous place to chill out is this aptly named viewpoint, in upcountry Bras-Panon. From Bras-Panon, take the road to St-André, then turn left onto the…
Grand Étang
The East
Around 12km southwest of St-Benoît along the road towards Plaine-des-Palmistes is the 3km road to Grand Étang (Big Pond). This pretty picnic spot lies at…
Takamaka Viewpoint
The East
North of St-Benoît the D53 strikes southwest, following the Rivière des Marsouins 15km upstream to end beside the Takamaka viewpoint. Be prepared to fall…

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