Holiday Rentals in Réunion: Stays and Accommodations

Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Réunion is a French island with strikingly diverse landscapes. Located approximately 700 kilometres east of Madagascar, this overseas department offers a concentration of spectacular nature where volcanoes, mountain cirques, tropical forests and fine sand beaches coexist on just 2,500 km². Nicknamed the intense island, it appeals equally to hiking enthusiasts and travellers seeking relaxation beneath the coconut palms. Réunion's relief is dominated by two emblematic volcanoes. Piton des Neiges, the highest point in the Indian Ocean at 3,071 metres, is now extinct and offers one of the island's most beautiful hikes, typically undertaken at night to witness the sunrise from its summit. In contrast, Piton de la Fournaise remains one of the world's most active volcanoes, with regular eruptions attracting the curious from around the globe. The Plaine des Sables, its lunar expanses and the volcano route rank among the most impressive landscapes to discover. The three natural cirques of Mafate, Salazie and Cilaos form the heart of Réunion's National Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mafate, accessible only on foot or by helicopter, is home to isolated hamlets called îlets, where a few hundred inhabitants live at a timeless pace. Salazie, the greenest of the three cirques, is renowned for its waterfalls such as the Veil of the Bride and its picturesque village of Hell-Bourg. Cilaos, famous for its lentils, wine and hot springs, seduces with its mountain atmosphere and vertiginous panoramas. Réunion's coastline is equally impressive. The western coast, drier and sheltered, concentrates the most popular beaches, notably those of Boucan Canot, Hermitage and Saint-Gilles-les-Bains. The lagoon, protected by the coral reef, allows safe swimming and observation of colourful marine life with snorkel and mask. To the east, the wild and lush coast offers exuberant tropical landscapes, with vanilla and sugar cane plantations and Tamil temples bearing witness to the island's cultural diversity. Réunion can be visited year-round thanks to its tropical climate tempered by trade winds. The Southern winter, from May to November, corresponds to the dry season and is ideal for hiking and exploring the island's highlands, with pleasant temperatures and little rainfall. The Southern summer, from December to April, is hotter and more humid, marked by possible cyclones, but remains conducive to swimming and coastal activities. September and October are particularly popular for observing humpback whales that come to calve in Réunion's waters. Creole culture permeates every aspect of life on the island. Réunion's cuisine is a genuine culinary journey, blending African, Indian, Chinese and European influences. Curry, spicy sausage stew, samosas and bouchon are among the must-try specialities to savour in numerous local restaurants or at street markets. Traditional celebrations, such as Dipavali celebrated in Saint-André or the festivities of 20 December commemorating the abolition of slavery, offer a vivid glimpse of this cultural mosaic. Activities abound for adventurous travellers. Paragliding above Saint-Leu, canyoning in the pools of Salazie and Cilaos, scuba diving to discover coral reefs, helicopter tours to admire the inaccessible cirques, or horseback riding on the Maïdo trails: each day can be an opportunity for a new experience. Those seeking relaxation will also find happiness on the western coast beaches or in the numerous guesthouses in the highlands. Réunion attracts diverse tourism, from families seeking sunshine to experienced hikers, honeymoon couples and volcanology enthusiasts. Accommodation is as varied as the landscapes, from mountain guesthouses nestled in the cirques to oceanview villas, including apartments in beach resort towns. This diversity makes the island a unique destination where each stay reveals a new facet of an exceptional territory.