Travelling in the Land of Lava is like getting a one way ticket to an extraordinary, unpredictable world, where the icy cold coexists with the blazing sun, where silence resounds with a spectacular intensity. You will be awestruck by the enigmatic, moon-like views and spine-tingling supernatural landscape. Somewhere between genesis and the end of time, the Reunion volcano is a must for all travellers to the island in search of the ultimate experience.
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The volcano
Immerse yourself in the mythical volcano of Reunion Island: the Piton de la Fournaise !
The majestic Piton De La Fournaise
Check out the Land of Lava and explore the incredible massif of Piton de la Fournaise! This enigmatic region is the perfect witness to the birth and natural transformation of Reunion Island. Its magnetism tirelessly draws locals and travellers to immerse them in the dawn of time, the birth of the world.
Before attempting the steep slopes of the volcano, exploring the coastline is an excellent way to get a feel for the beauty of this rocky region. There, at aptly named Grand Brûlé, the black basalt contrasts with the deep blue of the ocean, while the vegetation gradually restakes its claim. The Lava Route, as it follows the different lava flows that have flowed over it to reach the sea, reveals unique landscapes shaped by the various eruptions.
If you feel no fear you can even launch yourself into the bowels of Reunion Island and its iconic volcano and explore the lava tubes, on unforgettable potholing adventures.
If you prefer the peaks, take the forest road on the volcano. Whether you go for a hike or a “volcano path picnic” in the best Creole tradition, you will find yourself immersed in an intense and spectacular atmosphere. Your heart will beat faster and your face will light up before the panoramas on show and this elusive atmosphere.
The Holy Grail is, of course, to climb Piton de La Fournaise and reach the Dolomieu Crater. This stunning hike crosses Enclos Fouqué from Pas de Bellecombe. The challenge is well worth it, reaching the top of the crater is always a surprising, magic and spellbinding moment.
Land of contrasts
The intense contrasts in the Land of Lava are what make it so unforgettable. The extremes often merge, as if Piton de la Fournaise is the alpha and omega of the ultimate experience. Your exploration will take you from bright light to darkness, from blazing sunlight to icy cold and from deafening noise to complete silence: enough to overwhelm your senses!
Only by taking the forest road leading to the base of Piton de la Fournaise will you appreciate the depth and diversity of the countryside. From the plains and pastures at Bourg Murat, in the Land of Mist, the vegetation becomes more varied along the winding road. After having crossed the majestic forest of cryptomerias, the landscape turns into arid plains littered with volcanic rocks. Then Plaine des Sables appears abruptly, which makes it more of a surprise, and you can’t help but be impressed by this awe-inspiring lunar spectacle. Your gaze lingers over a desert of volcanic slag with reddish reflections crossed by a small track. Indescribable.
Feel like extending your adventure? Head to Pas de Bellecombe on the small track which crosses Plaine des Sables. From this place with its unique basalt landscape teeming with countless craters and rock formations sculpted by the lava, you can see the majestic Piton de La Fournaise. A fascinating geological world, a bit like one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
Be sure to take the time to watch the sunrise from Piton de la Fournaise. The silence of the early morning amplifies the feeling of fulfilment that comes from contemplating this breathtaking landscape.
Understanding the Land of Lava
Cité du Volcan, ideally located in Bourg-Murat just before the forest road leading to Piton de la Fournaise, is an excellent starting point. Here you can perfect your knowledge with the interactive exhibitions on site or with a guided tour. Viscosity, magma, and effusive eruptions will no longer hold any secrets for you! An intense experience that will take you on a journey to another world. A world of earth, fire and fascination; of raw and untamed nature.
Immersion in the volcano
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