Vistas & Volcanoes

OVERVIEW

Explore the most intriguing attractions along Reunion Island’s eastern shore, a ruggedly beautiful landscape that eons of volcanic activity have shaped. While following a mostly coastal route from the Pointe des Galets peninsula, you hear enlightening commentary about the island, a remote French overseas department in the Indian Ocean. Natural beauty is only part of its allure as you will discover at the Church of Sainte-Anne, a baroque gem so glorious that it was declared a national monument. You will also see a 19th-century suspension bridge built to withstand the raging waters of the East River and frequent cyclones. Notre-Dame des Laves is inspiring in a different way – the church was miraculously spared from a lava flow that devastated the surrounding village. Still, the most destructive vagaries of nature are the island’s volcanic eruptions, evidence of which you will see in the hardened black lava fields at Grand Brûlé and the basalt sea cliffs at Cap Méchant.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Settle in for a leisurely and incredibly scenic drive, mostly along Reunion Island’s east coast.
• Snap photos at two churches: one a baroque masterpiece, the other saved from a lava flow.
• Dine on delicious French cuisine at a waterfront restaurant in Sainte Rose.
• Behold an expansive hardened lava field and the volcanically formed cliffs at Cap Méchant.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.