An experience between culture and nature

on the northern Museums and Gardens Route The North

The North

In the north of Réunion, a land of heritage, nature and architecture often go hand in hand! From historic buildings to bucolic gardens, Creole homes to plantations of exceptional produce, the island has never been so intense. To make the most of it, we invite you to the heart of Réunion’s capital, Saint-Denis, to soak up its vibrant atmosphere … and retrace its history as you wander through its charming alleys and religious monuments, not forgetting the natural treasures perched in its heights!

City, nature, culture and local produce: it’s time for a breath of fresh air and a whole host of discoveries!

The Museums and Gardens Route itinerary

The north, where culture meets nature

The north,

where culture meets nature

you on a journey through time and colour! Follow the Rue de Paris to the Maison Carrère (a 19th-century gem!), a listed building housing the tourist office. Here, all the keys to the city await you: juicy anecdotes, architectural secrets and a glimpse of the street’s hidden treasures!

At the heart of tradition

Maison Carrère doesn’t just reveal the authentic charm of Creole homes. It also invites you to delve into the world of the ‘nénènes’ – the iconic nannies of Réunionese families. This exhibition is the perfect opportunity to discover this tender and endearing figure, the mainstay of many Réunion homes!

Léon Dierx Museum

Your walk continues along this main thoroughfare, where Réunion’s Creole homes reign supreme. What’s more, the Léon Dierx Departmental Museum awaits with a number of paintings (by some real masters). Discover works by Creole artists from Réunion such as Antoine Roussin and Adolphe Leroy, and sculptures by a certain Gauguin and Picasso. It just goes to show: art transcends oceans.

A great deal, shared with you

The Léon Dierx Museum opens its doors free of charge on the first Sunday of every month!

Musée Léon Dierx

musée des Beaux arts de la Réunion

Just a four-minute walk away, enjoy a visit to the Jardin de l’État. A little haven of peace in the heart of the city! This spot of greenery is the perfect place for a well-deserved break in the shade of century-old trees.

On site, let yourself be tempted by an impromptu reading session thanks to the reading boxes, while the younger ones enjoy themselves in the dedicated playground. Feeling peckish? Don’t panic: you’ll find what you’re looking for in the garden restaurant.

This garden also hides a treasure: the Natural History Museum, a listed monument! Step inside and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of wildlife on Réunion and in the Indian Ocean. The promise of a discovery that’s as educational as it is captivating!

After theory, comes practice. As you leave, put on your trainers, grab your binoculars and head for the Sentier de la Providence trail, perched in the heights of Saint-Denis. Test your new knowledge as you go.

Follow the gentle scent of Bourbon vanilla to the Vanilleraie de Sainte-Suzanne in the heart of the Domaine du Grand Hazier! As soon as you set foot in the workshop, you’ll embark on a real Made in Réunion sensory journey.

Explore the plantation and discover the secrets of this precious spice. Much more than a simple condiment, it’s a unique product from the Réunion terroir, crafted with care and passion. It’s easy to see why Bourbon vanilla is so highly appreciated the world over!

If you’re still not satisfied, drop into the Payet et Rivière sugar refinery for a typically Réunionese sweet: galabé. This traditional sugar, with its unique flavour, is sure to delight your taste buds. A gourmet experience leaving you with oh-so-sweet memories!

Discover the experience "Les secrets du galabé peï"

The adventure in the north continues

Rue de Paris is full of cultural gems ready to surprise you! First stop: the Villa Repiquet, which opens its doors and its history to you. Step through the gate and immerse yourself in family stories, illustrated with photos capturing moments both intimate and authentic.

Just 200 metres further on, you’ll come across the magnificent Villa de la Région, itself a historic monument and a must-see exhibition venue in the north of Réunion. Have you ever heard of the tradition of the ‘changement d’air’ or ‘change of scenery’? Head to the Maison des Gouverneurs, perched in Saint-François. There, the owner will reveal all the secrets of this ancient Réunionese practice, surrounded by furniture that seems to have come straight out of another era. It’s also a chance for you to enjoy your own change of scenery!

For nature lovers, head for the heights of Saint-Denis: discover Le Brûlé ! The Vallée Heureuse is an enchanting and (almost) secret Creole garden on the island of Réunion. The owner will lead you on a guided, intimate and passionate tour, as history, science and nature intertwine to create a magical experience.

©680853818 Dr Villa Repiquet 2|IRT DR Villa repiquet

©680853982 Vallee Heureuse Credit Irt A Tossem 3|Aurélie Tossem

Spotlight on the Domaine de Bel-Air

In Sainte-Suzanne, immerse yourself in history at the memorial to the freedmen and freedwomen of the Domaine de Bel-Air. Driven by the passion of committed historians, this vibrant site is much more than a place of remembrance: it is a living, captivating tribute to those who left their mark on the past. A tour that’s sure to inspire you!

Extend the experience at Domaine de Beaubassin !

At Domaine de Beaubassin, you’ll discover a two-in-one experience for a total immersion in the Réunion art of living!

On the one hand, immerse yourself in the warm atmosphere of Monique’s home, where you’ll be welcomed like a distinguished guest.

On the other, treat yourself to a full day of discoveries, including a tasting of delicious local dishes, an introduction to Réunionese craft techniques and a stroll through a magnificent garden. Here, every corner is bursting with flavour and expertise!

Continue on the route!

The adventure continues around the island

A history of fire and flame: on the southern Museums and Gardens Route

An trip into volcanic territory: on the eastern Museums and Gardens Route