Summary
In Reunion’s Sud Sauvage “Wild South”, Saint-Joseph is a region distinguished by its black sandy beaches and breathtaking natural scenery. Two rivers, the Langevin and the Riviere des Remparts, meander through the area, each possessing its unique significance.
The Langevin presents a tropical paradise, showcasing waterfalls, cascades, and natural pools, whereas the Riviere des Remparts is characterized by its dramatic volcanic formations, with dark basalt cliffs soaring hundreds of meters above the water. Furthermore, Saint-Joseph is in close proximity to the Reunion National Park, recognized as a World Heritage Site, known for its volcanoes, majestic cirques, canyons, and lunar landscapes shaped by ancient lava flows.
1. Piton de la Fournaise
Among the transformative sites within the Reunion National Park, one landmark rises above the others: The Piton de la Fournaise is recognized as one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
With at least 20 distinct hiking trails around its summit, visitors can witness scenes of remarkable natural power.
From Saint-Joseph, the optimal approach is to awaken before dawn and drive to the Pas de Bellecombe. Alternatively, visitors may choose to stay overnight at the lodge near the pass to avoid navigating the winding mountain roads in the dark.
The hike may require several hours, yet the breathtaking view of the sunrise over the caldera makes it worthwhile.
2. Cascade de Grand Galet
The Langevin River traverses from north to south, descending from over 2,200 meters above sea level to the Indian Ocean within a mere 18.3 kilometers.
Its journey is dotted with numerous stunning waterfalls, one of which captivates visitors with its sheer beauty.
Located adjacent to the Route de Grand Galet, visitors can park and marvel at this cascade of delicate falls cascading against a basalt cliff adorned with foliage.
The cascade nourishes several natural pools suitable for swimming, and there are designated picnic areas nearby.
3. Nez de Bœuf
To experience an array of the astonishing natural features in Saint-Joseph, one must travel westward and then return via the remarkable Route du Volcan from Bourg-Murat.
The journey offers scenes unlike any other, with the first notable landmark being the 2136-meter-high Nez de Bœuf mountain.
From this vantage point, one can enjoy spectacular views of the ancient cliffs bordering the Riviere des Remparts below.
For seasoned hikers, there exists a trail tracing the epic canyon of the river from the coastline of Saint-Joseph, although this undertaking should not be approached lightly.
4. Cratère Commerson
A visit to Reunion’s La Fournaise Massif should encompass this immense caldera, known as the Cratère Commerson.
Situated along the route to the Piton de la Fournaise, a couple of minutes after the Riviere des Remparts, it provides a designated viewpoint above this extraordinary natural feature.
This crater was formed by an eruption of astounding magnitude approximately 2,000 years ago, propelling a mass of rock measuring 200 meters wide and 120 meters deep skyward.
5. Manapany-les-Bains
Manapany is a picturesque coastal community located in Saint-Joseph, featuring a striking pebbly bay lined with palm trees.
This location serves as the backdrop for the annual Manapany Surf Festival.
Due to strong currents and occasional threats posed by tiger sharks, surf competitions may be canceled.
Nevertheless, over the course of a few days, a vibrant lineup of musicians performing reggae, Creole music, funk, and jazz can be enjoyed.
Additionally, Manapany provides an opportunity for swimming, with a lagoon of clear water protected by a man-made seawall.
6. Jardin de Vandas
Reunion is home to 120 species of orchids from 30 different genera.
What is particularly interesting is that most of these species ended up on the island as their lightweight seeds were transported from Asia and Madagascar by tropical cyclones.
Jardin de Vandas, located on Rue Léon Heaulme, showcases all the orchid species native to Reunion along with many others from around the world.
The garden features both outdoor and indoor spaces, including a greenhouse. Visitors will benefit from a guided tour by the passionate owner, who shares insights into these enchanting plants.
7. Marine Langevin
At the point where the Langevin meets the Indian Ocean, an ancient lava flow has resulted in a natural landing area.
This site has been utilized by cargo boats and fishermen for centuries, featuring a small corridor in the rock leading into the water.
The only challenge is that the coastline is continuously battered by waves, complicating landings even in favorable weather.
To observe local fishermen in action, it is best to visit around one in the afternoon on a calm day, when teams of men lift the boats up the ramp from the turbulent waters.
8. Jardin de Parfums et des Epices
Following colonization, the flatter coastal regions of Reunion were transformed into plantations for coffee, sugar cane, and vanilla.
However, thriving crops of spices and fragrant plants can also be explored at this captivating garden.
Situated approximately 15 minutes from Vincendo on the N2, this garden features vetiver, ylang-ylang flowers, as well as cloves, cardamom, and vanilla, plus curcuma and ginger roots.
Guided tours provide insights into how each variety was introduced to Reunion and cultivated on the island.
9. Maison du Curcuma
Another aromatic excursion awaits at the Maison du Curcuma, located in the Plaine des Grègues, a mini cirque to the west of the Riviere des Remparts.
This family-operated plantation cultivates curcuma root, often referred to as Reunion’s version of saffron and the source of turmeric spice, a staple in Creole cuisine.
Visitors can explore the plantation and learn about the processes involved in transforming the root into powdered spice.
At the conclusion of the tour, guests can visit the “Cave Aux Épices,” where a variety of aromatic spices and essences are available for purchase.
10. Canyoning
With its enchanting waterfalls, basalt gorges, and natural pools, the Langevin River serves as an ideal destination for diving and climbing activities as well as sliding down cascades.
This activity is safer than it may sound, as participants are equipped with helmets, life jackets, and neoprene suits.
A growing number of companies employ qualified guides who drive participants to the prime locations along the river, encouraging thrilling jumps from cliffs and dives down waterfalls. Numerous operators are based around Saint-Joseph, including Canyoning Langevin, Aquasens, Alpanes, and Pranaventure, most of which offer photo and video recordings of your adventure for easy download.
11. Lava Tunnels
The recent eruptions at the Piton de la Fournaise have created an intricate network of subterranean tunnels around Grand Brûlé in the southeastern region of the island.
As is the case with the river canyons, numerous businesses offer guided explorations of these tunnels.
Your experience will vary based on your comfort level: Some areas are easily navigable and suitable for all ages, while other excursions involve crawling through narrower passages over an extended period.
12. Marine Vincendo
During cyclone season from November to May, this expansive black sandy bay becomes accessible.
In pleasant weather, visitors often relax under the screw pine trees, enjoying the shallows.
While swimming is not advisable due to strong currents and occasional shark attacks, the otherworldly beauty of the black sands and the lush tropical cliffs adds to the allure.
13. Plage Ti Sable
Indeed, swimming is prohibited across the coastline, with the exception of lagoons made safe by seawalls or natural reefs.
Consequently, despite their appeal, the local beaches often remain devoid of tourists, allowing you to enjoy paradisiacal landscapes like this beach in Saint-Joseph in solitude.
Here, fine black sand meets towering cliffs cloaked in lush greenery.
While the currents prohibit wading into the ocean, one can leisurely walk along the shore or recline on the sand to appreciate this tranquil tropical panorama.
14. Sightseeing Flights
Reunion is a modest-sized island, measuring 63 kilometers long and 45 kilometers wide, yet its canyons, cirques, mountains, and volcanoes contribute to challenging road travel.
If you aspire to witness the stunning landscape without navigating the treacherous mountain roads, consider an aerial tour via helicopter or light aircraft.
The Pierrefonds Aerodrome, located 25 minutes from Saint-Joseph, features numerous companies offering various aerial excursions. Within this compact setting, one can admire remarkable sights including the Cirque de Cilaos, the Cirque de Mafate, the dormant Piton des Neiges volcano, and the active Piton de la Fournaise.
15. Creole Cuisine
The populace of Reunion is notably diverse, encompassing substantial communities of individuals with African, Chinese, Indian, Tamil, and European ancestry.
Combining this cultural richness with the island’s abundant spices, tropical fruits, and vegetables has resulted in a delightful culinary landscape that draws inspiration from a multitude of sources.
Samosas offer a quick snack option, consisting of pastries filled with meat or vegetables that are deep-fried to perfection.
Main courses often include rougail or cari, dishes made with meat or fish cooked in a zesty tomato-based sauce reminiscent of Indian curries.
With sugar cane cultivated throughout the island, locals produce rum infused with tropical fruits such as lychee, pineapple, or mango, creating delicious concoctions.
