In 2010, Unesco listed the Pitons, Cirques and Ramparts of Reunion as natural treasures of Worldwide Heritage, thanks to their exceptional universal value. The Piton des Neiges can carry on sleeping peacefully, in the knowledge that its natural heritage is protected, since it’s also a part of the La Réunion National Park.
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The Piton des Neiges throne at the top of the Indian Ocean
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The Piton des Neiges played a key part in the creation of Reunion Island. The volcano has been dormant for 120 centuries, but it was at the origin of the creation of two thirds of the island, over three million years ago! It has eroded over time and in the absence of volcanic activity, but it remains the highest peak of the island, standing at an altitude of 3,069 metres! But its name can be misleading (neige = snow in French) because this peak of Reunion Island is rarely covered in snow: there is no year-round snow cover and snowfall is rare there. However, it is cold at the top and the hikers who want to take on this climb need to be well equipped.
The volcano has been inactive for a very long time and its presence right at the centre of the island is fascinating. As the peak of the island, the Piton des Neiges is a great objective for hikers. The perfect occasion to explore a wonderful area of protected nature.
The GR R1 Tour of the Piton des Neiges was named the favourite GR hiking trail of the French for 2019.
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The Piton des Neiges, a little closer to the stars !
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Climbs and hiking trails around the Piton des Neiges
You can tackle these iconic slopes from the Plaine des Cafres or the Cirque of Salazie. But most of the valiant walkers leave from the Cirque of Cilaos, also at the centre of the island! Then they stop over at the only mountain gite of the Piton des Neiges, the renowned mountain shelter, the Caverne Dufour. After a good night’s rest in one of the four dormitories (48 beds in total) and an invigorating meal, they rise early, before dawn, to cover the last few kilometres before arriving at the peak. After around an hour’s walk, the effort is rewarded. They can see the sunrise over the entire island, with the Indian Ocean on the horizon, the turquoise waters blending with the sky.
Down below, the threeCirques of Mafate (in the north-west), Salazie (in the north-east) and Cilaos (to the south) also rise to a new day. They were formed when the volcanic vault of the Piton des Neiges collapsed: land subsidence created the gigantic cliffs, which were then partially filled with the lava flow from the volcano.
The tourist excursion up to this honourable summit is a great way to explore Reunion Island in even more depth, and visitors will witness a magical spectacle, making this unique experience a truly unforgettable one.
