Summary
Located in the northwest region of Reunion, La Possession is situated between the principal harbor at Le Port and Saint-Denis, the island’s capital. The area is characterized by its forest trails, colonial-era quarantine stations, and the challenging trek to the impressive Mafate volcanic cirque.
Remarkably, many of the island’s most stunning landscapes on the leeward side are reachable by road. Within minutes by car, one can access beautiful waterfalls and tropical sandy beaches, as well as drive to scenic viewpoints offering expansive views of the magnificent Piton des Neiges. Meanwhile, Saint-Denis along the northern coastline invites visitors for a more leisurely experience, replete with some of Reunion’s finest historical monuments and museums.
Below, we will explore the most notable activities in La Possession:
1. La Grande Chaloupe
Situated in a secluded ravine between La Possession and Saint-Denis lies an intriguing site that dates back to the 19th century. During this period, Reunion was still a French colony, and although slavery was abolished in 1848, indentured servitude persisted long after.
La Grande Chaloupe served as a lazaretto, functioning as a maritime quarantine for indentured laborers arriving from the Indian subcontinent. The dormitories and infirmary still stand, featuring exhibitions about the site, alongside artifacts sourced from this location and a second lazaretto located one kilometer upriver.
2. Mafate
A significant portion of the Mafate valley is located within La Possession territory. Mafate represents an extensive extinct volcanic caldera that is integrally related to the Piton des Neiges. This destination draws the most adventurous hikers who embark on lengthy journeys to witness the towering basalt cliffs of its cirque. Notably, small villages are nestled within this region, remaining almost entirely isolated from the rest of the island. Visitors can access the village of Dos d’Âne from La Possession to initiate their hiking adventures.
3. Chemin Crémont
Established as early as 1730, the Chemin Crémont is a walking route that connects the town center of La Possession with the upland village of Saint-Bernard located in the La Montagne district, slightly west of Saint-Denis. This invigorating trail meanders along cliff edges and through impressive gullies, such as La Grande Chaloupe. The large basalt cobblestones underfoot were laid in 1775, and the path was taken by British forces during the Napoleonic Wars when they captured Reunion in 1810.
4. Le Port
Adjacent to La Possession, Le Port is a harbor town that is unlike any other in France. This area combines a ferry port, naval base, container port, fishing harbor, and a tourist marina. The naval base ranks as the third largest in France, accommodating six docked ships, and those interested in military machinery can stroll to the docks for a closer observation. Additionally, Le Port features a vibrant market known as Le Marché Sous Piedboi, which operates on Wednesday mornings.
5. Whale Watching
Situated on the west coast of Reunion, visitors are excellently positioned to observe whales and other wildlife. The primary whale watching season extends from June to October, during which humpback whales migrate to these waters after their lengthy journey from Antarctica. During this period, one can visit Le Port for a cruise or head to vantage points like Cap la Houssaye along the coastline to spot them from land. If visiting outside the humpback season, various dolphin species inhabit the waters, while sperm and fin whales are also common visitors.
6. Rue de Paris, Saint-Denis
Ranked as the most distinguished street not only in the city of Saint-Denis but throughout Reunion, the Rue de Paris is a mere 15-minute journey from La Possession. Visitors will appreciate its grand colonial mansions and significant government buildings, which exhibit a blend of European Neoclassicism adorned with a Creole touch, showcasing verandas and vibrantly painted walls. The highlight of this street includes notable buildings such as the former bishopric, the old town hall, and the Maison Carrère. Additionally, take note of the Villa Déramond-Barre, the birthplace of former French Prime Minister Raymond Barre.
7. Musée Léon Dierx
The Rue de Paris also proudly hosts Reunion’s premier cultural institution. Housed within one of the stunning colonial mansions, previously the residence of the Bishop of Reunion, the Musée Léon Dierx features an array of artistic disciplines including paintings, graphic arts, prints, sculpture, photography, and applied arts, all generously donated by the island’s affluent art enthusiasts and dealers. The permanent exhibition is remarkable, showcasing works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Renoir, Gauguin, Cézanne, Redon, Maurice de Vlaminck, and Caillebotte, alongside pieces from notable Creole artists like Antoine Roussin and Adolphe Le Roy.
8. Parc du Colorado
The Parc du Colorado serves as a recreational space for tourists and residents of Saint-Denis, located 300 meters above sea level in the La Montagne district. This area offers a beautiful representation of Reunion’s wild upland scenery in a family-friendly environment, featuring children’s playgrounds, spacious green areas, picnic tables, and an observation point overlooking Saint-Denis and the ocean. Moreover, the Parc du Colorado is an excellent starting point for various outdoor activities, including horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking trails, along with a nine-hole golf course that charges a mere €15 for green fees.
9. Cathédrale de Saint-Denis
The only cathedral in Reunion, this delightful building, which showcases colonial architecture from the 1800s, was inaugurated in 1832. Its present appearance was achieved in the 1860s, when the elegant portico and pediment were introduced. Additionally, a cast iron fountain was procured and brought here from the Ducel foundry in Touraine, France, during this time. Notably, one of the most notorious events in Reunion’s history unfolded here in May 1946 when politician Alexis de Villeneuve was assassinated just steps away on what is currently Rue Paul Vergès.
10. Cimetiere Marin de Saint-Paul
Set in a picturesque location adjacent to a volcanic beach characterized by black sands, this cemetery dates back to times when Reunion was significantly more turbulent. It serves as the final resting place for various pirates, including Olivier Levasseur, who was executed in 1730 and remains the subject of treasure hunts for his hidden bounty, the Trésor de La Buse. Alongside Levasseur’s burial, the cemetery also houses more reputable figures, such as Parnassian poet Leconte de Lisle, born in Reunion in 1818, whose remains were brought back here after passing away in mainland France, in accordance with his wishes.
11. Plage de Boucan-Canot
The west coast of Reunion boasts the island’s finest beaches. Most of these beaches feature pristine white sand as opposed to the volcanic black sand found in the south. However, water safety can sometimes be concerning. Historically, Reunion has faced issues with shark attacks, yet Plage de Boucan-Canot is the first beach on the island to implement protective netting, resulting in no reports of incidents since its installation. Furthermore, the beach features a small, man-made lagoon for swimmers. Surfers gravitate towards Boucan-Canot for its rolling waves, while those preferring a tranquil beach environment will find it a piece of paradise, adorned with palm trees, volcanic cliffs, and a variety of bars serving cold beverages.
12. Plage de l’Hermitage
A short distance along the coast reveals a distinct yet equally captivating beach, Plage de l’Hermitage. This beach differs from Boucan-Canot in that it is sheltered from the ocean by a long barrier reef, which effectively prevents waves and currents, creating a large lagoon ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Temperatures typically range from 22 to 30°C, allowing visitors to observe rays, turtles, and vibrantly colored tropical fish, such as the idol of the moors. The beach is framed by woodlands populated with Australian pines and bayhop flowers.
13. Le Maïdo
There are more straightforward methods to explore Mafate than through arduous mountain hikes. The air tourism sector in Reunion is flourishing, offering aerial tours over Mafate via light aircraft and helicopters. Nonetheless, those on a budget may prefer to drive to the observation point atop Le Maïdo. It is advisable to leave early to avoid cloud cover and allocate adequate time for the winding mountain roads. As one navigates through tamarind forests and geranium plantations, the ascent leads to peaks exceeding 2,000 meters. Remember to pack a picnic to savor while taking in the breathtaking vistas at your leisure.
14. Bassin des Aigrettes
The steep, rocky terrain and abundant rivers of Reunion contribute to numerous waterfalls and cascades. Typically, reaching these natural wonders requires some effort; however, the Bassin des Aigrettes waterfall is conveniently located just down the road in Saint-Paul, making it easily accessible. Featuring delicate strands of water cascading into a crystal-clear azure pool, this picturesque site is perfect for photography, though swimming is prohibited due to potential rockfalls.
15. Maison du Coco
Upon its settlement in the 17th and 18th centuries, Reunion quickly garnered appreciation for its fertile volcanic soils. These soils facilitated large-scale cultivation of sugarcane, vanilla, coffee, and various spices such as turmeric, alongside an array of fruits. On the route to Saint-Leu, a seven-hectare coconut plantation offers visitors the opportunity to explore in a manner reminiscent of winery tours. The plantation tour provides insightful information about the unique botany of the coconut, a fruit that features a remarkable range of applications, including craftwork, cosmetics, and culinary uses. At the conclusion of the visit, there will be an opportunity to sample a variety of coconut-based products, including oil, milk, candied coconut, coconut sugar, and coconut sorbet.
