Day 1 — Saint-Denis, the Creole capital
Start with Rue de Paris and its Creole houses, then stroll through the Jardin de l'État. In the evening, head to the Barachois seafront for sunset over the ocean.
The Grand Marché is the perfect place to taste local flavours and pick up vanilla, spices or crafts.
Day 2 — Salazie cirque and Hell-Bourg
Salazie is the most accessible cirque from Saint-Denis. The road winds through lush greenery and many waterfalls, including the Voile de la Mariée.
Hell-Bourg, listed among the most beautiful villages in France, is worth a stop for its colourful Creole houses.
Day 3 — Piton de la Fournaise
Leave early: clouds often rise by late morning. The volcano road crosses the Plaine des Sables, a lunar landscape, before reaching Pas de Bellecombe.
Depending on volcanic activity and weather, access to the crater area may be restricted: check official information the day before.
Day 4 — West coast and lagoon
Head to Saint-Gilles and L'Hermitage beach, protected by the coral reef: ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
The seaside Saint-Paul market is a must on Friday and Saturday mornings.
Day 5 — Maïdo or Cilaos
The Maïdo viewpoint offers a spectacular view over the Mafate cirque, which can only be reached on foot. Arrive early to enjoy the view before the clouds.
If you prefer the mountains, the winding road to Cilaos leads to hot springs and great hikes.
Practical tips
A rental car is almost essential. Bring warm clothes for the highlands: it can be chilly at dawn at the volcano or Maïdo.
Our homes in Saint-Denis, close to Roland Garros airport, are a convenient base to explore the whole island.