Trail running on Reunion Island: a rush of adrenaline in the great outdoors

The ultimate island is right at the heart of the Indian Ocean and is staggeringly beautiful. Reunion Island is a very popular tropical tourist destination, as well as a hotspot for avid trail runners.

It is the ideal destination for trail running, with more than 900 kilometres of trails and three GR hiking trails that take you through the Pitons, Cirques and Ramparts, listed as World Heritage by Unesco since 2010.

Reunion Island is a huge land of tracks, thanks to its mountainous terrain. Mafate and the mountains covered in vegetation, Salazie and the small “ilet” villages and the highest peaks of the island: the Piton des Neiges, Gros Morne, Maido cliffs, Grand Bénare… all have exceptional itineraries on offer.

Trail running races along off-road tracks through forests and across mountains are real challenges. From the south of the island to the north, there are trail running races organised all year round, in a mystical atmosphere, extraordinary setting and a natural environment that is just as surprising as it is varied.

Three GR hiking trails for trail running on Reunion Island

Much to the joy of trail runners, there are three GR hiking trails, certified by the French Hiking Federation. Accompanied by experienced guides or alone, there are so many exceptional landscapes to explore, and along these trails, you can do so in complete safety.

The GR (R1) will take you on a tour of the famous Piton des Neiges, standing at 3,069 metres, the highest peak of the island, and you’ll cross through three Cirques: Salazie, Mafate, Cilaos. The GR (R1) is to be covered in six stages, and covers 60 km across mountainous terrain.
The GR (R2) crosses the island from north to south and covers 130 kilometres: on your way you’ll encounter mountain peaks, nature reserves, Cirques, the Piton des Neiges and Piton de la Fournaise.
The GR (R3) can be completed in five days. This one takes you on an exploration of the Cirque of Mafate, which can only be accessed on foot.

Three GR hiking trails for trail running on Reunion Island

Much to the joy of trail runners, there are three GR hiking trails, certified by the French Hiking Federation. Accompanied by experienced guides or alone, there are so many exceptional landscapes to explore, and along these trails, you can do so in complete safety.

The GR (R1) will take you on a tour of the famous Piton des Neiges, standing at 3,069 metres, the highest peak of the island, and you’ll cross through three Cirques: Salazie, Mafate, Cilaos. The GR (R1) is to be covered in six stages, and covers 60 km across mountainous terrain.
The GR (R2) crosses the island from north to south and covers 130 kilometres: on your way you’ll encounter mountain peaks, nature reserves, Cirques, the Piton des Neiges and Piton de la Fournaise.
The GR (R3) can be completed in five days. This one takes you on an exploration of the Cirque of Mafate, which can only be accessed on foot.

What’s the difference between Trail running and Hiking ?

They often use the same tracks, but these two disciplines are nevertheless very different. Trail running, as the same suggests, is running and there is more emphasis on performance. You need more intensive training for trail running and the right equipment, similar to that of a regular runner.

Exceptional trail running events on Reunion Island

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Reunion Land of Tracks

What equipment do you need for trail running on Reunion Island ?

Good shoes

It may seem obvious but the number one rule for trail running is to be equipped with suitable shoes. Most of the tracks on the island are rocky, so you’ll need shoes that are lightweight, with good ventilation, but also tough to be able to resist the volcanic rocks along your way.

The right clothes

Adapt your clothes to the different moments in the day. If you leave early in the morning, don’t forget to take warm clothing because at high altitudes the temperatures can be quite cool. Make sure you dress adequately so you can remove layers when you are running in the island’s warm sun. The temperatures will change along your way and your clothing needs to be adapted.

Refreshments

Trail running requires a lot of physical effort so don’t forget to bring enough water and refreshments. Along your way, you’re not likely to find anywhere with available refreshments, so make sure you bring what you need.

Sun protection

In the mountains, the sun is just as dangerous as on the beaches. Bring a cap, sunglasses and sun cream with you.