Summary
On the leeward side of Reunion, Saint-Leu serves as a destination to reconnect with the island’s rich natural resources. It features a sanctuary for sea turtles, a botanical conservatory, and rocky promontories along the coast. Opportunities abound for underwater exploration to observe tropical fish, or for watching whales and dolphins breach the waves. Along the shore, visitors can enjoy surf beaches impacted by the Indian Ocean’s swells and tranquil lagoons with warm, clear waters.
Reunion is renowned for its magnificent volcanic landscapes, and a journey along the Route du Maïdo will lead you towards the imposing Piton des Neiges and Cirque de Mafate, climbing over 2,000 metres within just a few kilometres.
Let’s explore the most captivating activities in Saint-Leu:
1. Conservatoire Botanique National de Mascarin
Reunion’s diverse plant life is displayed in this three-hectare park located in Saint-Leu. The conservatory is open without charge and was progressively developed in the 1980s and 1990s.
It plays a significant role in botanical research while also serving as a stunning showcase of Reunion’s natural beauty.
The garden is home to 4,000 plant species that are endemic to Reunion and the surrounding islands of Rodrigues, Madagascar, and Mauritius.
These species are organized into sections, including orchids, bamboo, succulents, palms, orchards, agricultural crops, and Reunion’s indigenous flora.
2. Kélonia
Few tropical creatures inspire as much fascination as the sea turtle, and Saint-Leu hosts a dedicated aquarium and research facility for these remarkable animals.
This center features a 500,000-litre tank fed by seawater, where visitors can observe turtles swimming and interacting as they would in their natural habitat.
Additionally, the center provides exhibits showcasing the human impact on sea turtles and prospects for their future.
Outside, guests can observe professionals caring for injured turtles prior to their release back into the ocean.
3. Musée Stella Matutina
The sugar industry was a significant part of Reunion’s economy during the 18th and 19th centuries and is commemorated at this former refinery.
At its height, the refinery was supported by an 85-hectare plantation and has preserved much of its large machinery.
The museum reopened in 2015 after extensive renovations and now offers a comprehensive exploration of sugar production on Reunion.
Facilities include a 400-seat auditorium and a 4D cinema.
Visitors can learn how the sugarcane plant transformed life on the island and familiarize themselves with the diverse individuals, from the humble to the affluent, who fueled this vital sector.
4. Maison du Coco
The coconut is a distinctive food with unique biological properties, cultivated throughout Reunion.
At the Maison du Coco, visitors can discover the many uses of the coconut, tour a seven-hectare plantation, and participate in workshops such as weaving with palm fronds, learning to open coconuts, and tasting a variety of coconut products including oil, milk, water, candied coconut, coconut sorbet, and coconut sugar.
A shop on site offers oils, soaps, and other items produced from coconut.
5. Route des Tamarins
The Route des Tamarins, inaugurated in 2009, runs along the west coast of Reunion.
While a highway may seem an unlikely attraction, the stunning natural scenery of Reunion provides breathtaking views along the route, showcasing the ocean from the hills and revealing 120 deep gullies spanned by towering viaducts.
For those eager to explore Reunion’s ancient forests, the Route des Tamarins serves as access to destinations such as Le Tévelave.
6. Route du Maïdo
The most direct approach to Reunion’s national park leads along the winding road up to a volcanic peak at an altitude of 2,200 metres.
This drive, perfect for a picnic, offers unforgettable views as you meander through tamarind forests and geranium fields, culminating in a breathtaking lookout.
At the summit, visitors are greeted with a panoramic vista, where the grand Mafate Cirque unfolds, featuring towering rock walls and peaks rising over 3,000 metres in the distance.
At the picnic area, take a moment to reflect and then venture along walking trails leading to remote villages and neighboring peaks.
7. Église du Sacré-Cœur de Saint-Leu
This church, constructed of volcanic rock, was commissioned by Sosthène de Chateauvieux, whose estate now houses the botanical conservatory.
Born in mainland France, he married into the influential Desbassayns family of Reunion.
The church was built swiftly around 1860 during a cholera epidemic and is situated on a scenic promontory, making the visit worthwhile.
In 1996, it was designated a French national monument and received 60 new stained glass windows crafted in Marseille in 2010.
8. Marché de Saint-Leu
Saint-Leu boasts a charming local market situated along the oceanfront road.
Although small, it features a delightful array of stalls selling handicrafts, fresh tropical fruits and vegetables, along with Creole specialties prepared on-site.
Visitors can also find locally made pickles to complement curries and aromatic spices like vanilla.
For a broader selection and additional street food, a short drive to Saint-Paul reveals arguably Reunion’s finest market, open on Fridays and Saturdays, where one can enjoy diverse food truck offerings.
9. Plage Saline-les-Bains
One of the finest beaches for swimming in Reunion lies just 10 kilometers north of Saint-Leu.
Plage Saline-les-Bains is shielded by an offshore reef, providing calm waters that are clear, shallow, and warm—ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling.
Visitors will also find opportunities to rent paddleboards or kayaks for further exploration of the lagoon.
For those preferring relaxation, the beach is lined with palm trees and Australian pines, ensuring easy access to nearby refreshments.
10. Pointe au Sel
One fascinating aspect of Reunion is the dramatic transformation of its coastline over short distances.
South of Saint-Leu, seascapes become stark and imposing at Pointe au Sel, where waves collide with the volcanic rocks of the headland.
The cape’s unique savannah flora and frangipani trees are preserved as a natural park.
The headland derives its name from its historical salt farm, which remains the last one on Reunion, continuing traditional harvesting methods established in 1942. A salt museum and shop are available for visitors interested in purchasing artisan salt.
11. Le Souffleur
This intriguing natural phenomenon is visually stunning and offers a delightful experience: Le Souffleur is a blowhole located along the coast of Saint-Leu.
Below the waterline, cooled lava has created a natural funnel in the rock formation.
When ocean waves strike these rocks, the water is expelled upward through the shaft, shooting up to several meters in height.
Photography enthusiasts will find this spot particularly captivating; a well-timed shot may capture the resulting spray forming a delicate rainbow.
12. Paragliding
Situated inland, Saint-Leu features a gradual slope which, along with favorable ocean breezes, has made it a prime location for paragliding.
This exhilarating activity is essential in order to appreciate the stunning aerial views of Reunion’s landscapes.
In tandem with an experienced guide, participants can launch from a hillside vantage point, soaring above the land and sea.
High above, the vivid blue ocean and lush tropical vegetation create a breathtaking panorama, while the majestic Piton des Neiges and Mafate peaks loom dramatically in the distance.
Adventurous souls may also have the opportunity to experience mild aerobatics as they rise with the thermals.
13. Diving
Saint-Leu is among the premier diving destinations in Reunion, known for abundant marine life such as sea turtles, dolphins, and tuna.
The ideal season for diving extends from October to June when water temperatures are warm and trade winds are minimal.
Temperatures can reach up to 30°C in December and January, with visibility prime during these months.
One of the fabulous dive sites is located near the Pointe au Sel, featuring a significant 70-meter underwater drop-off where giant trevally and tuna are frequently spotted, alongside curious dolphins.
14. Whale Watching
From June to October, an exceptional opportunity arises for those interested in observing spectacular marine life.
During these five months, humpback whales migrate to the waters off the island’s west coast.
Sometimes, it is possible to spot them from shore, such as at the Pointe au Sel, with binoculars in hand.
For those wishing to have a closer encounter, several companies provide regulated cruises that respect the whales’ natural habitat.
Other times, fin and sperm whales can be seen erratically, while various dolphin species can be observed throughout the year.
15. Muséé de Villèle
For those intrigued by Reunion’s history, the Muséé de Villèle provides insight into plantation life during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The highlight of the museum is a beautiful colonial mansion reminiscent of a Mexican hacienda or scenes from “Gone with the Wind.”
Spanning 10 hectares, the estate, previously owned by the influential Desbassayns family, was once focused on sugar production, as evidenced by the preserved factory on-site.
Additionally, the museum features a historical slave hospital, providing a poignant look into the island’s past.
The mansion’s interior is decorated with period furnishings, offering a comprehensive view of life in Reunion, from the wealthy elite to the marginalized members of society.
