montagnepitondesneiges01coucherdesoleilsurlepitondesneigesetlegrandbenare-creditirt.jpgmontagne piton des neiges
©montagne piton des neiges|IRT

Piton des Neiges

The heart and soul of Reunion Island

The Piton des Neiges, UNESCO World Heritage

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.

The Piton des Neiges throne at the top of the Indian Ocean

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.

Experience Feedback

The Piton des Neiges, a little closer to the stars !
Good to know

Make sure you preserve this extraordinary environment as you pass through !

Close